Decks are special additions to a home that give residents an outdoor space for entertaining and relaxing. Creating a perfect deck begins with understanding its purpose and what you want to do on it.
Adding a few creative add-ons can make your deck even more beautiful and functional. Here are some ideas to inspire you.
1. Curved Deck Design
There are many ways to design a deck, but if you’re looking for something out of the ordinary, then try a curved deck. Curves add a beautiful aesthetic to any outdoor space and can even serve a functional purpose by creating a flow that naturally takes you, your family, and guests from one area to another.
For example, if you want to create a seating area that flows from the house to the deck, consider building a curved section of the deck to match the arc of the home’s roof. This way, you’ll have a seamless transition that looks like it was planned from the start. Additionally, curved deck designs can fit in smaller spaces that would be difficult to access with a standard rectangular deck.
Another benefit of a curved deck is that it can match the shape of other features, such as a retaining wall, to create more consistent look throughout your outdoor space. Additionally, a curved deck can help to create the illusion of spaciousness by widening the gap between the deck and railing.
Finally, a curved deck can provide a dramatic effect that will set your backyard apart from others in the neighborhood. Because they’re not as common as square and rectangular decks, curved designs often wow potential home buyers, which can help your house stand out on the market.
If you’re interested in building a curved deck, it’s important to work with an experienced professional. A curved deck can be more difficult to build than a simple rectangular deck because it requires more precision and attention to detail. However, with the right team, a curved deck can be a great addition to your outdoor living space and will make a lasting impression on family and friends.
2. Circular Deck Design
Most people build decks to provide a more enjoyable outdoor space or increase the value of their homes. While these are great reasons, a well-designed deck can do much more than that. It can be a statement piece that accents your home and sets it apart from the rest of the neighborhood.
During the construction process, a good contractor will allow you to add to your deck design as the project progresses. However, it is always best to have a solid plan of what you want the finished product to look like before the work begins. This way, you can make sure that the final result will be exactly what you are looking for. Otherwise, you may end up spending more money than you planned on to have your deck fixed later on down the line.
A curved deck can be a beautiful accent to your home, adding a touch of whimsy that you wouldn’t be able to achieve with a square design. It also opens up the possibility of creating a round seating area that is perfect for relaxing with family and friends.
This type of deck is a little more complicated than a standard rectangular one, as it requires special materials to create the curved shape. The most important thing to keep in mind is that it should not be too steep or uneven, as this could be dangerous. Additionally, it should be at least as long as your porch or patio area to ensure that you can enjoy a comfortable walk.
You can choose from many different curved deck designs, including herringbone, picture frame, and more. Herringbone patterns are especially attractive and versatile, blending nicely with both traditional and modern architectural styles. The herringbone pattern consists of short deck boards set at 45-degree angles to form repeating “V” shapes.
3. Deck With Built-In Seating
When designing a deck, it’s important to consider how you’ll use the space. Think about what you’ll do most frequently and consider the needs of your family. For example, if you plan on entertaining friends and family members, a deck with built-in seating is a great way to maximize your living space and create a place to entertain comfortably. You can also work in a fire pit, a spa to relax in, or even an outdoor kitchen for a complete backyard experience.
If you love to cook, a grill is a must. Having a dedicated cooking station makes your deck the perfect spot to host barbecues and dinner parties. When planning your deck, try to optimize the space for dining and conversation by using a long table and stackable chairs. A stacked bench can also accommodate more people than an individual table and leaves room for a fully-stocked bar cart like this one from Emily Henderson.
A curved deck can have a dramatic impact. Add a cozy sitting area by building in benches that embrace the organic curves of a multi-level deck, such as this Trex deck designed by Tamsin Johnson Interiors. By choosing low-maintenance composite materials for the bench and railing, you’ll create a functional and inviting space that’s easy to clean and maintain.
A bare deck can feel cold and uninviting. Warm up a drab build with cozy throw pillows, layered outdoor rugs, and a large daybed. The lush canopy and tropical plants of this deck by Malcolm Simmons make it the perfect spot to kick back with a book and cup of coffee. If you want to add some extra style, a floor stencil is an easy DIY project that can give your deck a custom look for less. There are plenty of options available from Etsy sellers like StencilsLabNY that can fit any home decor.
4. Deck With Pergola
One of the best ways to get more out of your deck is to pair it with a pergola. While many homeowners use them for shade, they are also an eye-catching design element that can help to define a seating area or add a focal point. This Douglas Fir pergola with a louvered roof is both modern and functional, adding style and comfort to the space.
If you have a small backyard, a pergola on a deck might be the perfect way to create a more intimate outdoor lounge area. In this small deck by Malcolm Simmons, a large daybed and neutral cushions provide the perfect place to relax. To keep the space from feeling too bare, the designer added a large planter to fill the corner and some extra seating with an ethereal canopy.
For a larger backyard, a large deck can be an ideal spot for entertaining or relaxing. While this deck by the experts at Landscaping By Design doesn’t have a built-in barbecue or dining area, it makes up for it with an impressive pergola and plenty of natural seating. The designers paired the Equinox louvered pergola with a state-of-the-art fire pit and used Garapa wood for both the deck and the pergola, creating a stunning outdoor area that is sure to impress guests.
Whether you’re looking for a simple accent pergola or something to transform your entire deck, there are plenty of options available. Talk to your local contractor about the different materials that are available and how they can benefit your home. For example, ACQ-treated wood is resistant to water damage and pests, making it an excellent choice for a long-lasting, durable structure like a pergola.
5. Deck With Fireplace
If you want your backyard deck to feel like a luxurious getaway, consider upgrading it with a fireplace. This simple addition adds unparalleled ambiance, lighting and marshmallow-toasting functionality to your backyard space—and it’s not as expensive as you might think. Before installing a deck fireplace, make sure it can accommodate your space and comply with local building codes, such as those that require a specific distance between the firebox and your home’s structure.
When designing a deck with a fireplace, think about how much heat your space will need to maintain comfortable temperatures throughout the winter and summer. It’s also important to factor in how much additional space your deck will need for seating and other amenities, such as a grill or bar cart.
Decks aren’t just for relaxing, they’re often used to entertain family and friends. To create the perfect outdoor dining area, opt for a spacious wood table and stackable metal chairs like this one designed by Emily Henderson. The built-in benches and coffee table help maximize seating space, while a full outdoor kitchen—complete with a sink, counter, stove and grill—makes it easy to prepare meals without having to step inside the house.
If you want to relax in peace, curate a quiet corner of your deck for meditation and yoga. Create a flat surface with cozy seating and calming colors, such as blues and greens, and add plants with soothing scents that can be enjoyed in the fresh air. This serene retreat is perfect for soaking up the sunshine and enjoying nature’s serenity.