We recently finished a modest size deck in White Plains, New York. The challenges of this simple design were Zoning and Wetlands setbacks. The design was restricted but by placement of the stairs, we maintained maximum utility near the door area for dining and entertaining.
What is different about this deck is that the floor surface, stair treads and rail cap are made with Garapa, a hardwood from Brazil. Garapa is a light honey color and dense material. It is reasonably consistant in color, it is stable and weathers gracefully. It comes smooth and sands beautifully and will resist rot and termites for 25 years +/-. It is not as dense as Ipe yet easily dense enough to be a fantastic deck. Best of all, the 5/4×6 board is almost half the price (per foot) of the 5/4×6 Ipe.
Garapa is an unknown to many, a more durable substitute for Western Red Cedar, and a very high value for those seeking to build a natural wood deck.
If available in your area, check it out. 
