How to Expand Your Living Space With a Covered Deck

Vying for an outdoor lifestyle? Chiming in from cold New York, you're not alone.

Creating an appealing space that balances indoors and outdoors is the epitome of good summer living. Visual appeal aside, covered decks and pergolas can deliver a seamless outdoor living experience. As you plan your outdoor space and pick new outdoor furniture, keep architectural elements in mind. As Deckorators told us in its Contractor Insights Survey, homeowners and contractors are focusing heavily on transitional zones.

What are transitional zones?

"Outdoor living areas should feel like an extension of the home," shares Michelle Hendricks, Category Marketing Manager for Deckorators. "By selecting colors, textures and materials that complement or match the ones found indoors – this can be as broad as paint colors and cushion fabrics, or as narrow as finishes and fixtures – you can create harmony and a seamless transition between the two spaces."

To create harmonious transition zones, the report shares that homeowners appeal to covered outdoor deck designs, pergolas, and docks that provide all-purpose functions. Better yet, contractors surveyed cite that features like fireplaces, full kitchens, built-in seating, entertainment centers, smart lighting systems, and retractable screens add comfort, privacy, and security. Take it to the next level with an outdoor television, comfortable seating, an outdoor dining table, and string lights, and you'll appreciate the touch of sophistication in this outdoor experience. "In the face of undesirable weather, shade structures stretch the utility of the outdoor room, defying sweltering heat or drizzling rain to keep guests comfortable enough to continue enjoying time outside," adds Hendricks. Whether used for relaxation, social gatherings, or contemplative solitude, covered backyard decks and pergolas blur the boundaries between indoor comfort and outdoor serenity.

Covered Decks

With a covered deck, homeowners can enjoy outdoor dining, entertaining, or simply unwinding in the perfect spot amidst the elements, shielded from harsh weather conditions yet still immersed in nature's beauty. Outdoor lighting can help enhance the outdoor lighting trend, extending use of this separate space well into the evening hours.

Shade sails are another way designers incorporate additional shade. Consider them for your multi-level decks or rooftop decks if you're on a budget and looking to avoid construction.

Appealing Pergolas

Attached or freestanding pergolas provide partial shade and can create a sense of intimacy while maintaining a connection to the natural surroundings. As a leading trend, backyard deck pergolas reflect a shift towards sustainable, nature-inspired design, supporting the desire to create outdoor living spaces that can actually be used.

365 Living With Shade and Amenities

"Homeowners want to be able to enjoy their outdoor living spaces year-round, and recent modern designs focus on the inclusion of elements to make that possible," reminds Hendricks. "Outdoor heating, shade structures, fireplaces, and durable decking materials can keep your outdoor space comfortable and enjoyable no matter the season. The following project by Premier Outdoor Living is an excellent example of 365 living in action, featuring retractable screens, outdoor heaters, an outdoor fireplace/entertainment wall, a covered deck area, and an outdoor kitchen."

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