Decking is increasingly popular in urban and country gardens - but don't forget to give it a little TLC to keep it looking stylish and make it last longer. And it doesn't have to take forever.

You can use decking to create a relaxing space for entertaining, and blur the boundaries between inside and outside. Add intimacy and privacy with trellis screens, and vary the decking levels for added interest. Combine woodshades and contemporary colours for definition and contrast.