Deck Design Ideas You’ll Love (and Why You Don’t Have to Choose Just One)
When you’re designing a deck and browsing through thousands of images on the internet and in magazines, you’re probably overwhelmed. Where do you even start in designing a deck that meets your functional needs but also looks amazing? Well, you’ve come to the right place. Here are 9 deck ideas you’ll love. We’ll cover materials and deck designs to jump-start your creative process.
Think about your deck as a structure that supports your family’s outdoor lifestyle. The most common deck designs include attached and detached versions. Within those categories, there are many variations, which we’ll explore here.
First, though, let’s look at decking materials:
Wood is the classic. It’s beautiful, but the beauty comes at a high-maintenance price. Originally wood decks were redwood, cedar, or teak. Today, wood decks are also available in pressure-treated wood as well as ipe, a South American hardwood.
PVC or vinyl decks are 100% plastic. While they’re recyclable and won’t stain or rot, they do look like plastic and can get very hot in direct sun.
Composite decks are made using a blend of wood fibers and plastic for rot resistance and low maintenance, but with the look of natural wood. What’s cool about composite decks is clean construction without visible screws or nails: the deck screws, clips, and fasteners are hidden for a seamless look.
Now let’s have a look at the deck designs and styles!
An Attached Deck
This is probably the design you think about when you picture a deck. The attached deck is one that is physically attached to the home and acts as an extension of the home. An attached deck will probably share an entrance with the living room, the kitchen, or even a bedroom. It can be ground level or attached to an upper story.
The most successful attached deck designs create a seamless flow from indoors to outdoors. This could mean using deck materials that are similar in look to the flooring inside the home along with floor-to-ceiling windows. At the very least, they should be very close in color to create the optical illusion of one grand space.
If you prefer a more distinct separation, you can achieve that by choosing a deck style that harmonizes with the home’s exterior, and further separate the space with smaller windows that don’t reach the floor.
A Detached Deck
A detached deck is not physically attached to the structure of the home. Typically, detached decks are situated away from the home. Detached decks can be used to create a destination in the backyard, such as a spot overlooking a view, or next to a backyard pond. Detached decks are usually ground-level or no more than a step or two up. They look like they belong in the natural setting and may or may not feature railings. A detached deck is a wonderful option for creating an integrated outdoor living space within the landscape.
A Multi-Level Deck
A multi-level deck is separated into different elevations creating a collection of multiple smaller decks connected by stairs or walkways. A multi-level deck can be either completely attached, partially attached (for example, the upper level), or completely detached. When you’re working with a sloped landscape and usable land is in short supply for a patio, a multi-level deck can be a great solution that will give you the outdoor living space you need with significantly less (if any) excavation. Multi-level decks are much more interesting than single-level decks. You don’t even need a sloped yard: a single step up or down will add visual interest and provide a clear definition of space for each outdoor activity your family wants to enjoy.
A Rooftop Deck
If you are lucky enough to have an amazing view, a rooftop deck — literally on the roof — can maximize the view. Rooftop decks are a trendy and luxurious addition for homeowners seeking to maximize their outdoor living space. These elevated sanctuaries offer breathtaking views, privacy, and a unique ambiance that can transform an ordinary rooftop into a serene oasis. Whether you're in a bustling cityscape or surrounded by nature, a rooftop deck allows you to escape the confines of your home and enjoy the fresh air. From stylish furniture arrangements and cozy lounging areas to vibrant plantings and exquisite lighting, rooftop decks provide endless opportunities for creative design and relaxation. So, if you're a homeowner looking to elevate your outdoor experience, consider the allure of a rooftop deck for an elevated lifestyle.
A Curved Deck
A curved deck embraces the natural curves of the landscape. Curved decks are popular in modern designs, curved decks let you get away from a rigid rectangular design. Although the boards are typically straight, a curved deck is an opportunity to play with different board orientations.
Image source: Trex
A Ground Level Deck
A ground level deck is one that closely hugs the surface of the ground. It can be either attached or detached. Ground level decks are particularly useful if you want a more seamless transition to the natural setting since you don’t need railings.
A Balcony Level Deck
A balcony level deck sits on the second story or higher. To maximize space, balcony level decks will often include space below such as a shady back patio or an area for storage. You can include heavy duty features such as a hot tub on a balcony level deck: a wonderful feature outside a luxurious master suite.
A Wraparound Deck
A wraparound deck wraps around the home, bringing to mind wraparound porches of yesteryear except that a deck can have multiple levels. A wraparound deck creates a dynamic space that allows several different outdoor activities on the same surface. The main benefit of a wraparound deck is that it gives you easy access from multiple entry points from the home.
A Pool Deck or Spa Deck
Composite decking is a great material for your pool or hot tub area because it's slip-resistant, stays drier than a solid surface, and doesn't get hot on bare feet. Natural wood needs to be sealed regularly, but if you’re willing to maintain a wood deck, it’s a classic look that can’t be beat.
A Side-Yard Deck
If your side yard is barely wide enough for a walkway and a row of shrubs, you can make better use of the space by installing a deck. It could be the perfect hideaway from a busier main deck, or simply a way to keep a transitional area looking neater.
Hybrid Decks (The Best Choice for Many Applications)
There are many ways to combine the different types of decks. Today, hybrid deck styles are becoming more common than a deck that falls into a single category. There is always more than one way to create the most beautiful and usable outdoor space, and many landscape designers are combining different types of decks. Your backyard may, for example, call for a wraparound deck along with a separate more secluded hot tub deck or a rooftop deck where you can soak in the view. Or, you may prefer a small attached deck outside the kitchen for grilling and dining, and a balcony deck for lounging.