When it comes to decking out your outdoor space, we’re here to help you get started. Building a stunning deck that you’ll be proud of, your neighbors will admire, and where you can host family gatherings and social events requires careful consideration. Every home and family has its unique needs, from cozying up a tiny abode in a bustling neighborhood to expanding the possibilities on a spacious acreage.
Our aim is to provide inspiration for deck ideas that boost curb appeal, property value, and entertainment capabilities – whatever your home’s size or setting may be.
20 Great Deck Ideas to take Summer Entertaining to the Next Level
Outdoor decks are often overlooked, relegated to being a mere extension of the home rather than a vibrant living space. But we believe that with careful design and attention to detail, a deck can become an integral part of your home’s charm. As you consider revamping or building a new deck, it’s essential to remember that the best designs create a seamless transition between indoors and outdoors.
Over time, decking trends have evolved, influenced by architectural styles and materials available at the time. For instance, older homes often feature balconies built onto rooftops from upstairs rooms, while mid-century decks were typically ground-level and constructed from stone or brick. In recent years, wood has become a popular choice for decking material, but it’s not necessarily the best option.
A truly great deck is one that adds character to your home and invites people to gather and make memories together. It should feel like an extra room in your house – not just a place to kick off your shoes or leave your outdoor toys. With this philosophy in mind, we’ve curated stunning examples of decks done right to inspire and guide you. We’ve scoured the internet for our favorite ideas on designing outdoor decks and entertaining spaces.
Using these designs as inspiration, we’ve created a simple guide to help you get started with brainstorming your own outdoor living space project. From decorating tips to building plans and stain options, we’ve covered everything you need to turn your vision into reality. Whether you choose one idea or combine multiple elements, our goal is to empower you to create a deck that showcases your unique style and creativity.
Share it with family and friends, and enjoy the countless memories you’ll make in this new outdoor oasis.
Go Long to Increase Space
When it comes to decorating a deck in an odd-shaped or sized yard, options can seem limited. However, one creative solution is to go long instead of wide. This approach not only adds depth and dimension to the space but also provides an aesthetically pleasing area that won’t disturb the neighbors. To further enhance the feel of width, consider patterning your floor panels to create a sense of visual continuity.
Complete the look with vibrant furniture and colorful umbrellas to make your deck an inviting retreat.
Decorate Your Deck Like an Extra Room
When conceptualizing your deck design, it’s crucial to recognize that your outdoor space is an integral part of your overall living area, rather than a mere extension. Treat it as you would any other room in your house – with intention and purpose. This mindset will not only encourage you to spend more time enjoying the great outdoors but also create a welcoming atmosphere for guests, making them feel like they’ve been invited into your home’s very heart.
Add Pops of Color Using Fresh Flowers
While many deck design ideas incorporate potted plants or flowers, a simple yet effective alternative is to use fresh-cut blooms in a vase. This approach not only eliminates the need for additional plant care but also seamlessly transitions the outdoor aesthetic to the deck. Consider harvesting cut flowers from your existing flower beds and arranging them in a vase to create a cohesive look that brings the outdoors in.
Take Cover for Year-Round Entertaining
Take your outdoor entertainment spaces to the next level by incorporating a slanted roof extension into your deck design. This innovative concept allows you to enjoy the sun’s warmth while keeping the rain at bay, thanks to the use of clear plexiglass or similar materials. Add some ambient lighting to set the mood and create an inviting atmosphere that’s perfect for cozying up on a drizzly day or hosting a lively gathering with friends.
And let’s not forget the added bonus – a peaceful afternoon spent sipping coffee on your own private deck, shielded from the elements, sounds like pure bliss.
Who Says it Has to Be Attached?
When it comes to designing decks, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. For homeowners with limited space near the entrance or exit of their home, this innovative approach can be particularly appealing. By repurposing a shed as a sheltered gathering spot and adding a ground-level deck with shading at the door, individuals can create a cozy outdoor area that’s separate from the main house.
This unique configuration allows for a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor living spaces, making it an ideal option for those who need to think outside the box when it comes to maximizing their outdoor space.
Rattan Makes Everything Better
When it comes to deck design, rattan reigns supreme. This natural fiber outperforms wicker in terms of durability and weather resistance, making it a worthwhile investment for those seeking a low-maintenance yet stylish outdoor space. By incorporating rattan furniture, rugs, and lush greenery, you can effortlessly create a bohemian-inspired oasis that’s as easy to maintain as it is comfortable to inhabit.
As an eco-friendly material, rattan offers a guilt-free way to bring the outdoors in, whether used indoors or out. Its ability to withstand rain and other elements makes it an excellent choice for those who value a carefree outdoor lifestyle.
Mix Up Railing Materials
While building railings around raised decks, many people assume they must stick to traditional wood materials. However, incorporating wire or metal into the railing’s framework can add depth and dimension to your deck. The choice of material can greatly impact the overall aesthetic, making it appear larger, cozier, or easier to clean. For instance, a thick metal wire used as an inner lining, as seen in the featured photo, creates a more open look that is still safe and secure.
Other options for railing materials include metal picketing, plexiglass, concrete, rope, or even glass – although climates prone to high winds or hurricane weather may not be suitable for the latter.
Take a Good Look Around You
When designing an outdoor space, such as a raised deck or patio, it’s crucial to consider the view. The placement of your structure can greatly impact the overall experience. A poor view can be detrimental to the ambiance you’re trying to create. Imagine investing time, energy, and resources into building a beautiful raised deck only to discover that it overlooks your neighbor’s backyard or a busy street.
To avoid this scenario, look for a spot that offers privacy and provides a serene atmosphere. This could be as simple as positioning your deck to face a quiet corner of your yard or incorporating natural barriers like trees or hedges. By doing so, you’ll create an inviting oasis that makes you want to spend more time outdoors enjoying the fresh air.
Romantic Deck Design Ideas include Stringed Lights
This enchanting backyard deck design is characterized by a stunning display of stringed lights suspended above a welcoming seating area. The soft glow of a candle nestled in a vase on the table beautifully complements the warm ambiance, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. What’s particularly impressive about this idea is its versatility – you can easily customize it to reflect your personal style by opting for different light colors or shapes.
To further enhance the design, incorporate accent pieces that harmonize with the lights, such as the vibrant orange potted flowers featured in the photo. This thoughtful touch will seamlessly integrate the deck with the rest of your home.
High Railing and Uniform Seating
Blending two innovative deck design concepts – high railings and uniform decor – this stunning setup creates an inviting atmosphere perfect for relaxing with loved ones or enjoying quality time with your furry friend. The harmonious blend of blue hues, from the furniture to the rug and accent pillows, establishes a cozy seating area that’s ideal for gathering with family or friends.
Meanwhile, the high railings cleverly enclose the deck, transforming it into an integral part of the home rather than a traditional porch. As a cherry on top, stringed lights and hanging flower boxes beautifully wrap up this outdoor living space, exuding warmth and homeliness.
Sometimes, Less is More
When it comes to designing a deck for small yards, simplicity is key. A low-level, compact design is an excellent choice. This layout allows you to maximize the usable space without overwhelming the surrounding area. To keep things tidy, consider leaving most of the deck empty except for a few strategically placed potted plants. When the deck is in use, only bring out what’s necessary to avoid clutter and ensure a smooth flow.
This efficient design not only saves valuable yard space but also reduces maintenance needs. As your family grows, this deck can double as a safe and practical surface for activities like wading pools, portable sandboxes, or other creative endeavors.
Water Down Paint for a Subdued Tint
When it comes to decking up your outdoor space, two popular approaches are staining and painting. Why not merge the best of both worlds by using watered-down paint that harmonizes with your home’s exterior, followed by a clear coat of weather-resistant sealant? This clever combination yields an aged, rustic appearance that avoids looking worn out or dated. By incorporating this technique, you’ll effortlessly elevate your home’s curb appeal and leave a lasting impression on your guests.
Add Dimension to Your Deck with Paint
A creative approach to painted decking has resulted in a showstopping design that seamlessly integrates with surrounding patio furniture. By employing two distinct colors, the homeowners have achieved a harmonious fusion of aesthetics and functionality. The whitewashed-inspired hand rail and deck flooring provide a calming backdrop for the deeper brown-colored rails, effectively tying together the overall visual narrative.
As a word of wisdom, it’s essential to exercise restraint when selecting your deck’s color palette, lest you inadvertently create an overdone appearance that may clash with the surrounding architecture.
Swap Out Railings for Vegetation
While traditional deck design often relies heavily on railings, this unique space has taken a different approach. By omitting railings altogether, the homeowner has created a sense of openness and expanded the perceived size of the deck. The tall plant boxes filled with lush greenery have not only added a touch of elegance but also drawn attention to the surrounding landscaping, effectively blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces.
However, it’s essential to consider safety factors and ensure that your homeowner’s insurance requirements are met to avoid any potential risks.
Chandeliers are Never Extra
There’s no good reason not to hang a stunning foliage chandelier on your deck. In fact, it’s an idea that can easily become a reality with just a little online research. By searching for deck design inspiration and exploring options for deck roofs or coverings, you’ll discover a plethora of plans that will enable you to suspend a show-stopping chandelier above your outdoor seating area.
This simple yet effective trick not only adds a touch of elegance but also creates the illusion of a larger space, making it perfect for those dinner parties with the Joneses and beyond.
Mix Up Your Seating
Here, the homeowner’s creative deck decor ideas come to life. By incorporating diverse seating styles and designs, they’ve crafted an inviting space perfect for socializing. The centerpiece features a harmonious pairing of gliders and a matching coffee table, while the lounge chair and sunbathing duo with adjacent table create a dynamic layout. This thoughtful arrangement allows for effortless grouping and conversation among party guests, making it ideal for hosting large outdoor gatherings.
With each seating area nestled close together, attendees can seamlessly transition between intimate discussions and larger social circles.
Go Au Natural for Rustic Appeal
For this decking idea, simplicity is key. Instead of staining the wood, a weather seal provides ample protection without the hassle of matching the stain to your home’s exterior. This approach works particularly well for smaller decks, as it prevents them from appearing too ornate or overdone.
By keeping the deck itself unadorned, you’re free to incorporate a variety of colors and decorative elements through furniture, plants, and other features that can transform your deck into an extension of your home’s unique style.
Keep it Cozy and Cute
When it comes to decking out your outdoor space, think outside the box – or rather, think outside the traditional furniture store. Old desks and umbrellas can be repurposed into unique and functional pieces that add a touch of personality to your patio. For example, an antique desk and hutch combo can be transformed into a charming gardening center, complete with built-in planters and storage for all your gardening tools.
Meanwhile, a vibrant red umbrella can provide a stylish canopy for outdoor dining at a rustic picnic table, keeping the sun’s rays at bay while adding a pop of color to the space.
Build in Seating to Save Space
One of our go-to design elements for raised decks is incorporating built-in seating areas instead of traditional railings. This approach not only eliminates the need for additional patio furniture, but it also helps maintain a cohesive look throughout the decking. The absence of railings can be particularly striking when paired with pool or hot tub decking, allowing for a seamless transition between the two.
Furthermore, you can take this concept a step further by incorporating a built-in table for added convenience and functionality.
Watch Your Step
At dianeanddean.com, we showcase a straightforward decking solution that sits flush with the home’s foundation. By choosing a ground-level design, the homeowner eliminated concerns about railings and insurance coding, creating a safe and accessible space for entertaining guests or spending quality time with family. This low-maintenance approach is ideal for those who prioritize safety and budget friendliness, as it also tends to be more cost-effective to build.
20 Beautiful Deck Ideas to Impress Your Friends
When exploring the deck ideas presented here, keep in mind that versatility is key. Your unique personal style and sense of home will naturally differ from others’, so don’t feel pressured to love every design featured. Instead, focus on finding inspiration that resonates with your individuality. This is because your home, including your deck, serves as a reflection of who you are.
As you embark on designing your own deck project, prioritize creating a space that authentically represents your personality. We hope this list has sparked creativity and motivation to tackle the sometimes-challenging task of decking. With the right approach and attention, even the most finicky spaces can become serene oases perfect for relaxation, socializing with loved ones, or simply soaking up the great outdoors.
Whether you opt for a raised deck featuring an outdoor grill kitchen or a simple ground-level design adorned with rustic furnishings, we’re excited to see your creative vision take shape.
Our Favorite Outdoor Decorations to buy on Amazon
For those looking to elevate their outdoor spaces, there are a variety of garden decorations available. From functional pieces like planters and stands, to decorative accents like statues and solar lights, the options are endless. For instance, flower planters can add a pop of color and texture to any patio or deck, while three-tiered plant stands can provide ample space for displaying a collection of plants.
A garden trellis can also add a touch of elegance, providing support for climbing plants like roses or ivies. Meanwhile, wheel flower planters offer a unique way to display flowers in a whimsical and playful manner. For those who want to bring a sense of whimsy to their outdoor space, options like fawn pair statuary and bird bath can add a touch of fantasy. On the other hand, garden benches provide a comfortable spot for relaxation and contemplation.
Finally, solar lights can add ambiance and functionality to any outdoor space, while ceramic statues can add a touch of elegance and sophistication.
