Dear James: I need to add some additional seating on my deck for entertaining. I want something more unique than just buying more chairs. What do you suggest? — Vicki N. Dear Vicki: Your best option ...

Q: I was at a party last weekend and sat on a bench that was built into the deck. It was a clever idea, and it had handy armrests that were perfect to set plates or drinks on. I want to build bench ...

Dear James: I could use a long bench on my deck to use when entertaining. Are there low-cost, simple-to-build bench designs that I could make myself? -- Mark B. Dear Mark: Building a deck bench is one ...

DEAR TIM: Last weekend I was at a party and sat on a bench that was built into the deck. It was such a clever idea, and it had handy armrests that were perfect to set food plates or drinks on. I want ...

Dear Pat: I have a fairly large deck, but it does not have enough seating when we have large parties. I think a bench or two would be nice. How can I build some comfortable benches inexpensively? -- ...

After more than a year in lockdown, people have the itch to entertain again. But getting back to normal will take time. Even when it is deemed safe to gather together again, it may take a while for ...