With Expert: John Aves
John Aves is a design consultant with Design Discoveries and lends his expertise to field of modern and contemporary outdoors.

Q. My husband and I are building a deck off the back of our Miami Beach home. We want to achieve a modern, clean look by using clear glass railings and sleek furniture. We are having a problem choosing the material to construct the deck -- we don't want to use wood. Can you recommend any alternatives?

A. Your investment in the materials for your patio will pay especially high dividends in Miami, where your views and all connections to nature are precious. Stainless Steel or Polished Aluminum are the only metals (for holding the glass panels) that will stand up to the salt air and sun exposure in coastal Florida.

Flooring could be mosaic or tile. There are many wonderful choices in tile. Sandstone colors work well in areas where you may accumulate fine particles of sand and other airborne materials -- and it reduces the maintenance.

Using contemporary wicker/resin furniture will look and feel comfortable, but also cleans well and will withstands the coastal conditions. It feels good to the touch and is softer than metal. Maintenance and comfort are paramount. Check out Design Discoveries. Either the Thayer Hopkins Collection or Infinitas Modular Collection would be appropriate for a contemporary setting. The modular option is especially helpful in smaller space where you may wish to re-arrange elements to suit guests, etc.