Do you dream of an outdoor space completely customized to fit your and your family’s needs? Rather than going with the standard, dull square deck, you can implement creative deck designs to make your backyard stand out from everyone else’s on the block while adding functionality and curb appeal to your home. Today, we want to share with you our top 10 creative deck design ideas to get your brainstorming pumping! Let’s dive in!
10 Creative Deck Design Ideas
#1: Multi-Level Decks
Multi-level decks are a trending design concept that offers homeowners a plethora of benefits. First, they provide an elevated space that creates a unique spatial visual while addressing various landscape heights. Second, multi-level decks offer customized functionality zoning. For example, one level could host a grill and dining area, another with a fireplace and seating, and yet another for a personalized activity like a children’s zone, meditation space, or even a hot tub! Lastly, multi-level decks provide various viewing platforms and allow you to see your surroundings at different heights.
#2: Built-In Seating and Planters
With a deck design comes the need for seating. Built-in seating is a practical option to provide places to sit that align with the deck’s aesthetics. They are easy to include with PVC decks; not only does it save space, but it also creates a cohesive vibe to your overall look. With built-in seating, you also have the option to make tiered seating for various seating options and add storage, a creative and durable way to declutter and store outdoor items safely.
Pro Tip: You can even add built-in planters to your deck! This is a clever way to add large planters without having to drag pots!
#3: Outdoor Kitchen, Bar, and Dining
Cooking, drinking, and dining outside is a great way to take advantage of lovely weather, bond with loved ones, and get away from screens. An outdoor kitchen, bar, and dining area is a creative idea to add to your deck design. It can be as simple as a barbeque, bar cart, and four-top tables or as extensive as a fully equipped outdoor kitchen and bar with a long dining table.
PVC decks, in particular, are a fantastic option for deck designs with these elements because they can handle the weight load, are less flammable, and are resistant to cooking stains.
#4: Fire Pit or Fireplace
Here in Washington, our nights tend to cool considerably, even during the heat of summer. Therefore, a firepit or fireplace is an excellent option to add a functional element to your space, especially for fire-resistant decking like PVC. Whether your family and friends want to curl up around the fire to share stories, roast marshmallows, or simply enjoy the warmth, this fire element is a favorite among homeowners.
#5: Shade Structures
While the nights can cool, the summer days can be HOT! Even though a little bit of sun is pleasurable, too much can be bad for our health and our outdoor furniture. A pergola, patio cover, awning, or another shade structure can give us the relief we need to escape those harsh UV rays. One of our favorite options is a pergola made with PVC materials! Add a latticed roof, and you have a perfect method for growing vine plants like wisteria to create a magical outdoor look with plenty of shade and inspiring beauty.
#6: Lighting Features
Your deck isn’t just for daytime activities but can be used deep into the night. However, outdoor lighting is a must to keep it functional and safe. We recommend string lights, recessed lighting, and solar lights for lighting features. String lights provide a warm and inviting atmosphere; the lights come in a variety of styles and can be installed to highlight your favorite areas. Recessed light can be installed flush to the deck itself, providing path lighting to guide your way. This is perfect for stairs, ramps, and deck edges! Lastly, solar lights make for excellent post toppers, giving you a solar-powered way to light your deck gently.
#7: Water Features
Water features don’t have to be in the landscaping alone; you can include them in your deck design. We have seen people add pools, hot tubs, ponds, waterfalls, fountains, and water walls to their deck designs to add that element of tranquility we all crave. However, it is vital to remember that a water feature must be a key part of the initial deck design to ensure there are power and water hookups built in.
#8: Unique Railings
Railings provide a critical safety measure for your deck design. While they must adhere to safety regulations, a wide variety of railing designs can add a creative flair to your deck. Whether you want a minimalist railing that promotes a beautiful view or an elaborate railing to match your home’s aesthetics, PVC deck railings can be customized to fit your unique deck design with low-maintenance requirements.
#9: Deck Skirting and Storage
The underside of your deck doesn’t have to be an ugly, useless area. Instead, it can become a fantastic storage space! It will all depend on the height of your deck, but taller decks can transform their underside into storage units to hold anything and everything. If your deck is shorter, you can store a variety of outdoor items like toys, tools, equipment, and more. With proper deck skirting, you can shield your stored items from prying eyes in a beautiful fashion that adds to the charm of your space.
#10: Decorative Elements and Personal Touches
Your outdoor space is a reflection of your style, and to truly make it your own, you have to customize it. With PVC materials, you can do more than simple deck design. In addition to everything we’ve mentioned above, you can also create trellises, privacy screens, boardwalks, outdoor showers, plant walls, and so much more!
Looking for more inspiration for your deck design? Call Simpson Decks now and discover the possibilities with our expert PVC deck solutions.