Custom Deck Design & Installation

Why Choose Custom Deck Design

Your home is unique, and your deck should be too. When you work with Artisan Outdoor Smyrna Decks, you are not settling for a cookie-cutter solution. We design each deck around how you live and what you want to achieve with your outdoor space. Maybe you love hosting barbecues and need room for a large dining table. Maybe you want a quiet corner for morning coffee overlooking your garden. Whatever your vision, we bring it to life with thoughtful design and expert craftsmanship.

Custom deck design means more than just picking a size and shape. It means considering your property's layout, the way sunlight hits your yard throughout the day, how you access your home, and what features will make your deck truly functional. We look at elevations, drainage, views, and privacy. We think about traffic flow and how different areas of your deck will be used. This attention to detail is what separates a good deck from a great one.

In Smyrna, TN, we have worked with every type of property, from cozy bungalows to sprawling estates. We understand local building codes, HOA requirements, and the specific challenges that come with Tennessee weather. Our team knows which materials hold up best in our climate and which design choices will give you the most value for your investment. Learn more about our commitment to quality.

Our Design Process

We start every custom deck project with a conversation. Before we draw a single line or measure anything, we want to understand your goals. How do you plan to use this space? Who will spend time there? What is your budget? Do you have any specific features in mind, like built-in seating, planters, or lighting? These questions help us create a design that actually works for you.

• 1.
  Initial Consultation: We visit your property, take measurements, assess the terrain, and discuss your ideas. This meeting usually takes about an hour, and it is completely free with no obligation.
• 2.
  Design Development: Using your input and our site assessment, we create a detailed design plan. This includes layout drawings, material recommendations, and a breakdown of costs. We present multiple options when appropriate so you can choose what fits best.
• 3.
  Refinement: Your feedback matters. We revise the design until it is exactly what you want. This might mean adjusting dimensions, changing material selections, or adding features we did not originally discuss.
• 4.
  Final Approval: Once you are happy with the design, we provide a detailed contract outlining the scope of work, timeline, and payment terms. We also handle any necessary permits at this stage.

Throughout the design process, we keep communication open and straightforward. You will never be left wondering what is happening or when you will hear from us. We believe that building a deck should be exciting, not stressful.

Material Selection for Your Custom Deck

The materials you choose have a huge impact on how your deck looks, how much maintenance it requires, and how long it lasts. We offer a wide range of options and help you understand the pros and cons of each.

• Pressure-treated wood: The most affordable option, great for traditional looks, requires regular staining and sealing
• Cedar and redwood: Naturally resistant to rot and insects, beautiful grain patterns, higher upfront cost but less maintenance than pressure-treated
• Composite decking: Made from wood fibers and recycled plastic, virtually maintenance-free, comes in many colors and textures, does not splinter or fade
• PVC decking: Fully synthetic, extremely durable, resists stains and scratches, ideal for high-traffic areas and pool decks
• Exotic hardwoods: Dense tropical woods like ipe or tigerwood, incredibly long-lasting, rich colors, premium price point

Many homeowners in Smyrna choose composite or PVC decking because of Tennessee's weather. Our hot summers and occasional harsh winters can be tough on natural wood. Composite materials handle these conditions without warping, cracking, or requiring constant upkeep. That said, there is nothing quite like the look and feel of real wood, and we install plenty of wood decks for clients who prefer that aesthetic.Explore our composite deck installation services for a deeper look at low-maintenance options.

Popular Custom Design Features

One of the best parts of custom design is adding features that make your deck uniquely yours. Here are some of the most popular additions we incorporate into custom decks:

• Multi-level designs: Perfect for sloped yards or creating distinct zones for dining, lounging, and cooking
• Built-in seating: Maximizes space and creates a finished, cohesive look
• Pergolas and shade structures: Provides relief from the sun and defines outdoor rooms
• Lighting systems: LED step lights, post cap lights, and under-rail lighting extend deck use into the evening and improve safety
• Privacy screens: Strategic placement of lattice, planters, or solid panels creates seclusion without sacrificing airflow
• Fire pits and outdoor kitchens: Takes outdoor entertaining to the next level
• Custom railings: Cable rail, glass panels, or decorative balusters add personality and style
• Stairs and pathways: Thoughtful placement creates smooth transitions between your deck and yard

We also think about practical features like drainage systems to prevent water pooling, proper ventilation to extend material life, and structural reinforcements that allow for hot tubs or heavy planters. These behind-the-scenes details might not be glamorous, but they are what make a deck stand the test of time.

Installation That Stands the Test of Time

A beautiful design means nothing if it is not built correctly. Our installation crews are experienced professionals who take pride in their work. We do not cut corners or rush through projects. Every post is set properly, every board is fastened securely, and every detail is checked before we consider a job complete.

We start with a solid foundation, which usually means concrete footings below the frost line to prevent shifting. The framing is built with properly spaced joists and blocking for maximum strength. We use stainless steel or coated fasteners that will not rust or stain your decking over time. All cuts are precise, and all joints are tight. This level of craftsmanship is what separates a deck that lasts five years from one that lasts fifty.

During installation, we keep your property clean and organized. We protect your landscaping, haul away debris daily, and minimize disruption to your routine. Most custom decks take one to three weeks to complete, depending on size and complexity. We provide a detailed timeline before we start and keep you updated throughout the process. Learn about our wood deck installation process for traditional building methods.

Local Expertise in Smyrna, TN

We have been building decks in Smyrna and surrounding areas for years, and we know this community inside and out. We understand the local building codes, which are some of the strictest in Rutherford County. We know which neighborhoods require HOA approval and how to navigate that process smoothly. We have relationships with local inspectors and can anticipate their expectations.

More importantly, we understand how people in Smyrna use their outdoor spaces. We know you want a deck that works for summer cookouts, fall football gatherings, and those perfect spring mornings when all you want is a quiet place to enjoy your coffee. We design with Tennessee living in mind, which means accounting for heat, humidity, occasional ice, and everything in between.

Why Work With Artisan Outdoor Smyrna Decks

You have plenty of choices when it comes to deck builders, so why choose us? Here is what sets us apart. We listen first and design second. We do not push you toward the most expensive option or try to upsell features you do not need. We give honest advice based on years of experience and what we know works in this area.

Our team is licensed, insured, and committed to doing things the right way. We stand behind our work with solid warranties and a reputation built on customer satisfaction. We are not just passing through. We live and work in this community, and we care about the quality of every project because our name is on it.

When you hire us, you get clear communication from start to finish. You get skilled craftsmen who take pride in their work. You get a deck that looks great, functions perfectly, and adds real value to your home. And you get peace of mind knowing the job was done right.

Frequently Asked Questions