How did we make this new Kansas City porch the one with an ideal size?

If you play golf or tennis, you’ve probably found yourself hoping that your next club or racket will be “the one”. Hopefully it will be that magic tool that solves all the little problems that have been keeping your game from reaching the next level. Kansas City deck and porch sizing is a little like that. Many homeowners think that there is a “perfect size” that, once found, will allow all the other design details to fall into place.

Sadly, there is no perfect size. Just as there is no ideal size for a home, there is no one-size-fits-all solution for determining the best deck, porch or patio size for everyone. There are, however, some guidelines that we use to make the best recommendation for our clients. Not surprisingly, the first thing we do is take measurements of the home and yard. If your yard is only 20 feet across, you can’t have a 25’ deck. Existing landscaping, roof, wall, and window considerations will be key factors too.

You’ve probably heard the maxim “form follows function.” Size is a primary component of form and we always ask our customers detailed questions about how they plan to use their new outdoor space. It’s not because we are nosy. We want to understand the job that your new addition will perform. If you and your beloved pet will use the screened porch for relaxing in the evenings after work, that’s one thing. Tailgate parties for 45 people throughout football system are entirely different.

Space planning for your Kansas City porch will make your final size perfect for your needs.

The topic of function dovetails into the furniture you plan to use. Roughly 80 percent of our customers put a dining table on their porch. With a dining area, you have to include space around the table for chairs and movement around the table. Some people like to push back from the table after dinner and stretch out a bit– this may take up another 2 feet or so. Two feet doesn’t sound like much, on paper, but in reality, it can make a tremendous difference in comfort and traffic flow.

When you choose Archadeck, you are entrusting your new design to a highly-experienced porch designer and builder.

If this sounds like a lot to wrap your head around, fear not. As Kansas City’s premier custom porch and deck designers, it’s our job to take into consideration everything from code-related issues like property setbacks to how much space to allow between door openings and walls. We will help guide you to making the right choices for your project. One blanket piece of advice I do have is that it’s better to go a little bigger than too small. No one ever comes back after an installation and reports that they have too much space. But in fact I was recently stopped by a past customer who noted he wished he had agreed to the recommendation for an extra 2 feet on his porch.

Also read: What is the best porch screen system?

Bonnie and Dan Hall, Archadeck of Kansas City Owners

If you’re considering adding a sunroom, or screened porch or other roofed structure to your home, give us a ring. Our consultation is free. We can discuss options, provide design ideas and of course give you a price quote to consider. Give us a call or send us an email. (913) 851 – 3325 or kansascity@archadeck.net.