A deck is more than just a platform; it’s an invitation to connect with nature, a canvas for creativity, and a stage where memories unfold. In addition to beautiful deck designs, elegant wooden structures can elevate your outdoor space, turning it into the backyard of your dreams. This post explores creative solutions to transform an ordinary backyard into an extraordinary retreat with imaginative deck and outdoor structure ideas.
Deck Design Considerations
Whether you’re hosting a barbeque, enjoying a lovely summer evening, or stargazing with loved ones, your deck is an extension of your home. The first step to creating the perfect deck for your home is choosing the best material for your style and space. There are two primary materials to choose from when building your new deck.
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Composite Decking
Composite decking boards use recycled wood and plastics to create durable boards in various colors that mimic wood grains. Although composite decking has a higher initial cost than its wooden counterpart, it is more durable than wood and has a longer life. It does not rot, warp, or fade as much over time, making it an excellent long-term option.
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Wood Decking
Wooden decks have a classic appeal and can be easily customizable with stains or paints to match your home’s aesthetics. Natural wood decking is generally more affordable upfront and provides authentic texture and a solid lumber aesthetic. However, compared to its composite counterpart, wood decking is less durable and requires more maintenance from the homeowner.
Both wood and composite decks have their merits, so when choosing what material to build your deck out of, consider what matters most to you and your space.
Deck Designs: Creative Ideas to Match Your Lifestyle
You can design and personalize your deck in many different ways to fit your style preferences and the needed function of your outdoor space.
Establish a Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Flow
To create a seamless flow from the interior of your home to the exterior, maintain the same or a similar style to your deck. Harmonize color palettes, furniture styles, and even decorative elements. It’s like inviting the outdoors inside, creating a cohesive and engaging space.
Borders: Where Colors Collide
Borders are opportunities to showcase your creativity. Instead of a uniform deck surface, add contrasting colored borders using the same materials. These borders define zones—dining, lounging, or planters—while adding visual flair. Think of them as elegant frames for your outdoor canvas.
Safety Meets Aesthetics with Railing Styles
Railings are more than safety features; they’re design elements. Choose railings that complement your deck’s overall style. Sleek stainless steel cables suit contemporary decks. Traditional wooden balusters evoke timeless charm. Glass panels provide unobstructed views. Extruded aluminum railing offers a minimalist look with very little maintenance. Mix and match while ensuring they harmonize with your deck’s style.
Stunning Outdoor Structures
Exude elegance and sophistication with a custom wooden structure. Unlike umbrellas and other shade sails, which are temporary and are at the mercy of the wind, outdoor structures are designed to look custom-built and integrated into your space. A well-designed structure transforms any space into an inviting atmosphere for relaxation, dining, or entertaining.
Wooden structures are a fantastic addition to your outdoor living space. No matter the project, each structure is custom-built to fit your specific needs.
Sun Protection Without Sacrificing Views: Outdoor Structure Design Options
Strike a balance between being outdoors and enjoying a covered space with gazebos, pergolas, and pavilions.
- Gazebos are freestanding structures with a solid roof and open sides. They offer shelter from the sun and rain while providing an intimate setting. Often used in larger gardens or as a focal point in a landscape, they are perfect for dining or relaxing in a cozy covered space.
- Pergolas are various-sized open-air structures with a grid of beams and rafters that allow filtered sunlight to pass through, casting beautiful patterns on the ground. For an added element of sun protection while still outdoors, installing a drop screen allows you to adjust the level of shade as needed. With enough room for furniture, pergolas are the go-to spot for outdoor dining, lounging, and entertaining guests.
- Pavilions are larger and more open than pergolas, with a full roof and support columns. They offer substantial shade and weather protection and are great for hosting large gatherings and outdoor dining in spacious backyards.
Make it Personal
Get creative with your structure! If lighting isn’t already part of your structure, add hanging lights or paper lanterns to create a cozy gathering space. You can also soften the lines by draping fabric or curtains or growing climbing plants like ivy, wisteria, or jasmine.
How to Get Started
If you’re ready to create a captivating outdoor space, look no further. Call or visit us online today to schedule a consultation and see how a new deck or roofed structure can take your outdoor space to new heights!