10 Deck Ideas to Make the Most of Your Outdoor Space
Life al fresco just got a lot more stylish.
Photo and design by Brit Arnesen of Brit Dot Design
If you’re anticipating warmer weather—and dreaming up all the ways you can spend time outdoors over the next few months—chances are good that creating a stylish and functional deck space is high on your list. However, if your daydreams only consist of a basic square structure with some wood planks, we’re here to tell you that you’re doing yourself (and your backyard) a serious disservice.
These days, there’s no limit to how personalized you can get with your outdoor deck ideas, helping you cater your al fresco hang space to your aesthetics, your lifestyle, and your needs. From built-in planters to inset lighting, there are endless opportunities for customization when it comes to designing and building your dream deck. To help make this summer the best yet, we’re rounding up 10 genius deck ideas sure to make you call your favorite contractor ASAP. These designer-approved examples have it all, from unique layouts and high-end railings to a recessed hot tub that’s totally dreamy. With decks like these, you'll want to spend all your time outside.
Incorporate Indoor Comforts
Photo by Karyn Millet for Raili CA Design
When dressing up your deck, it’s a good idea to take your cues from how you decorate the interior of your home. The more layers you create and creature comforts you incorporate, the more inviting the space will feel. On this welcoming backyard deck by designer Raili Clasen—as seen in her new book, Surf Style at Home, out this April—a variety of different seating options make room for a crowd. The additions of a rug, pillows, and cozy blankets up the lounge factor of the space even more.
Hang a Hammock
Courtesy of Trex
During the summer, relaxation is the name of the game—and there’s just no better invitation to sit and stay a while than an inviting hammock. If your deck happens to be on the lower level of your home (or has any semblance of a side and ceiling structure), it can be the ideal hang zone for your favorite swaying seat, like the cozy lakeside perch seen on this Trex-designed deck.
Consider Alternative Railings
Photo and design by Yardzen
We’re used to seeing most decks made from a wood or wood composite material, but that doesn’t mean it’s your only option. These days, more homeowners are flipping the script on its head, opting to design their decks with unique finishes and bespoke materials that play into the overall architecture and vibe of their homes. On this Yardzen-designed deck, sturdy cable wire railings take the place of traditional wood for an edgy and modern look.
Outline Your Perimeter
Courtesy of Christine Schuchman
Call attention to an expansive outdoor living space—and keep visitors safe—by outlining the perimeter of your deck with integrated lighting. Take a page out of the book of this Lake Arrowhead A-frame home, where string lights are woven in between the railings for a magical outdoor atmosphere.
Focus on Flow
Photo by Karyn Millet for Raili CA Design
What good is an outdoor deck if you have to constantly leave it to bring out more margs guac, and chips (or whatever you're serving up)? The key to designing a functional outdoor space lies in considering how it relates to the interior of your home. In this project, also by Clasen, the designer installed a set of bi-fold windows and extended the kitchen countertop, creating a bar area on the deck that offers immediate access to the home’s kitchen, making hosting a cinch.
Fire Up a Feature
Photo and Design by Yardzen and TimberTech
To create an outdoor deck space that is functional (and enjoyable) regardless of season, consider working a fit pit into the equation. The key to keeping the scene safe is opting for a gas fire pit that doesn’t throw sparks and ensuring it’s ample distance away from the side of your home (and not beneath any overhang). Here, the Yardzen team paired a modern fire bowl with plenty of creature comforts for a welcome escape, even when the evenings are a bit chilly.
Take It up a Level
Photo â of Trex, Design by Liz Marie Galvan
Decks obviously make for a great main entertaining zone outdoors, but they can also offer up a more intimate retreat away from the hustle and bustle of guests. Case in point? This lovely, quaint escape by creator Liz Marie Galvan in partnership with Trex. Not only does the suspended deck offer a charming sitting area right off the home, but it frames out a below dining space, allowing it to feel more intimate and personal.
Add Some Structure
Photo and design by Brit Arnesen of Brit Dot Design
A deck is a wide open space, but add some “walls” and suddenly you have yourself an outdoor room that feels much more private and intimate. To gain some privacy, shade, and style, copy this clever project from creator Brit Arnesen’s space, which relies on thin wood slating on a back wall and overhead to add structure—and an adorable place to hang a light fixture.
Make It Minimal
Photo â TimeberTech
Not every home has the right layout for a deck suspended several feet in the air, but that doesn’t mean you have to forgo the feature entirely. Instead, consider a ground-level design that then flows directly out onto your patio or lawn. We love the way this TimberTech space forgoes any railings or major add-ons (save for a structural column and pergola overhang) for a streamlined scene right out of your dream backyard.
Sneak in a Soak
Photo by Karyn Millet for Raili CA Design
At the end of the day, the best deck is the one that suits your needs and functions. And if that includes an integrated hot tub, well, who are we to argue? This resort-like backyard escape, dreamed up by Clasen, takes advantage of a slightly raised structure to work in a cedar-surround hot tub that can be enjoyed right from the deck. Genius!
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