Outdoor decks are a popular extension of homes, providing additional living space to enjoy the outdoors.
Deck decor has come a long way, with endless options for stylish and functional decorating.
Today let’s look at top 13 modern deck decorating trends to create an inviting outdoor oasis right outside your home.
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Wood-Look Composite Decking
Composite decking has become a go-to material for its durability, low maintenance, and natural wood-like appearance.
The best composite decks mimic real wood with varied grain patterns and rich color tones.
Composite decking is made of recycled plastic and wood fibers, making it an eco-friendly choice.
Unlike real wood, composite resists mold, mildew, rotting, splintering, and thermal expansion.
High-performance decking can withstand sun exposure, foot traffic, and acts of nature.
When shopping for composite deck boards, look for brands that use multi-toned hues and non-repeating patterns for the most realistic wood look.
Opt for composites with deep, realistic wood grain textures molded in for added authenticity.
For a coordinated look, use matching composite boards and railings in the same style.
There are many color options too, ranging from weathered grays to rich reddish browns.
Light sand colors are ideal for a coastal or contemporary aesthetic.
Composite decking is also available in contemporary solid colors like black, gray, and tan.
Pair these with sleek aluminum railings and modern furnishings for a cutting-edge deck design.
Consider hidden deck fasteners to minimize visible screws for a super clean look.
Install boards lengthwise with tight seams following the lines of your deck for a seamless effect.
Use coordinating composite trim and fascia for a polished, upscale appearance.
Deck Tile Flooring
Another way to achieve a wood deck look with less maintenance is by using porcelain or ceramic deck tiles.
These innovative outdoor flooring tiles allow you to create a real wood floor outside.
Deck tiles come in a wide variety of colors and wood species patterns.
Mix and match tiles for a custom look.
Uses tiles with different grain patterns and sizes for visual interest.
Deck tiles are extremely durable and waterproof, made for outdoor use.
The tiles resist fading, stains, cracking, and growth of mold or mildew.
Made of porcelain or ceramic, deck tiles are slip-resistant and safe for walking on when wet.
Easy installation with an interlocking system or adhesive tabs allows DIY friendly upgrading of existing decks or patios.
Use deck tiles to refresh worn outdoor surfaces without full demolition.
To complement the wood deck tile look, incorporate natural stone and greenery into the design.
Potted plants, vines, and garden beds lushly frame the wood deck tiles.
A stone fireplace, retaining wall, or water feature also enhances the natural vibe.
For a coastal flair, add neutral tiles, rope lighting, and weatherproof wicker furniture.
Or create a Mediterranean escape with terra cotta tiles, stucco walls, and cast iron ornamental accents.
The durability and ease of installation make deck tiles a stylish alternative to standard wood or composite decks.
Tiles allow you to change up the design anytime by switching out patterns, colors, or layouts.
Using tiles on stairs, landings, edges or accent bands adds eye-catching details.
Deck tiles combine the warm, organic beauty of wood with ultra-low maintenance.
Horizontal Deck Boards
The way your deck boards are placed makes a noticeable difference in the overall visual effect.
While the traditional look is typical, horizontal deck boards stretched width-wise create a clean, contemporary look.
Extending the boards horizontally makes spaces appear larger and views seem expanded.
The eye flows smoothly across horizontal boards uninterrupted by vertical seams.
Wide deck boards enhance this seamless effect for a tranquil vibe.
Using fewer long boards horizontally means fewer seams for a less choppy, more unified surface.
Wide boards also exaggerate the length and highlights lines.
Spacing the boards slightly farther apart allows drainage and prevents an expansive feel.
For smaller spaces, limit board width to 5-6 inches and include 1/4 inch gaps.
Wider 8-inch boards work better for larger deck spaces and can handle a 3/8 inch gap.
Take steps to minimize the seams on horizontal decking to optimize the continuous effect.
Opt for hidden fasteners over screws and use fascia boards to streamline edges.
Choose woods like ipe and tigerwood that hold up better outdoors with fewer edges and gaps over time.
Use matching boards, consistent widths, and proper spacing for polished visual flow.
In terms of design, a simple rectangular deck looks most cohesive with horizontal boards.
Add raised planters, benches, and other built-in elements parallel to the deck lines.
For railings, glass panels align better than balusters with the horizontal motif.
Keep furnishings and accents minimal for a clean, uncluttered look.
The horizontal orientation exudes a relaxed yet refined mood.
Pair horizontal decking with neutral tones and natural materials for a calming oasis.
Or go bold with contrasting railing colors and sleek, modern furniture as a contemporary statement.
Horizontal boards provide versatility in style while maximizing outdoor views and elegance.
Angled Deck Boards
For added interest, consider laying your deck boards at an angle.
Angled decking provides a dynamic look compared to traditional parallel deck boards.
Diagonal patterns add visual motion to outdoor spaces.
The chevron style makes small decks appear larger too.
Varying angles creates depth versus flat parallel boards.
At a 45-degree angle, the boards intersect nicely for a consistent zig-zag motif.
Keep the angles uniform and boards the same length for the best effect.
Wider planks like 8-10 inches dramatically enhance the chevron pattern.
The bolder the angles, the more fluid the look.
For a less intense crisscross effect, opt for a subtle 15 to 30 degree angle.
This works well for larger decks to avoid too much busyness.
Take care when calculating the angle cuts so the tip of the boards meet up cleanly.
Follow a chalk guideline to ensure straight board rows.
Use hidden fasteners to prevent screws from marring the angled seams.
Contrasting colors on the main deck boards and borders helps delineate the chevron effect.
When decorating angled decks, simple is best.
Furnishings with straight lines balance the angles, like rectangular dining sets and loungers.
Railings should complement the angle and flow of the deck for cohesion.
Built-in benches along the edges soften the strong lines.
Planters and greenery integrate nicely by mirroring the deck’s angles.
Proper installation is key to maintaining the integrity of the angled design long-term.
Allow for sufficient drainage and ventilation to prevent warping.
Use durable woods like ipe and tigerwood.
Angled decking requires meticulous construction but delivers artistic appeal and visual uniqueness to outdoor spaces.
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Contrasting Deck Colors
Adding color contrast is an eye-catching way to define deck design.
Blending two complementary colors or materials creates definition and enhances specific deck features.
Contrasting tones help differentiate steps, borders, and built-in components like benches, planters and trim.
Using color, you can highlight a focal point, unify disjointed sections or accentuate favorite spaces.
For a two-tone deck color scheme, choose tones next to each other on the color wheel for visual harmony.
Complementary palettes like navy and tan, gray and white, or red and green blend beautifully.
Monochromatic contrast works too, for example light and dark shades of gray for subtle interest.
Neutral colors are easier to match with decor and furnishings.
Limit the palette to two main colors for cohesion.
In terms of materials, mixing woods, composite and porcelain tiles opens up contrast options.
Blend gray decking with brown borders or tan deck tiles with espresso trim.
Using different materials allows you to balance practicality with personal style.
Place composite decking in high traffic areas and real wood accents where you want natural beauty.
To highlight specific deck features, use borders along edges, stairs, and built-in benches.
Bright red stair risers pop against neutral toned stringers.
Dark doors and trim framing light decking draw the eye.
Coordinate railings and balusters in one tone with contrasting deck boards.
Pay attention to how light hits different colors and angles.
When decorating two-toned decks, streamline accessories and furnishings so as not to compete with the colors.
Black and white cushions, rugs and planters keep the palette crisp.
Umbrellas, drapes, and pillows can amplify main tones as accents.
Contrast lighting like overhead string lights versus low-voltage spotlights adds mood.
Properly maintaining contrasting colors is crucial to preserve the visual appeal.
Renew protective finishes and touch up worn areas regularly.
Contrasting deck colors requires more deliberate decorating but the effort pays off with a stylishly polished yet functional outdoor space.
U-Shaped Conversation Pit
Bring people together and promote conversation with an intimate U-shaped conversation pit built into your deck design.
Conversation pits create a cozy, comfortable hangout space for family and friends.
The sunken, enclosed layout provides a sense of privacy and shelter while still being outdoors.
Position the pit area to take advantage of prime views for maximized enjoyment.
Traditionally, conversation pits featured built-in bench seating lining the interior around a central fire feature.
Today’s versions offer endless seating options like weatherproof sectionals or rattan lounge chairs.
Choose durable, slip-resistant tiles or stone for the pit flooring to prevent slipping and allow drainage.
Comfortable water-resistant cushions encourage lingering.
To accentuate the inviting ambiance, install recessed lighting and sconces along the pit walls.
Drape tapestries overhead and position side tables for drinks.
Portable heating units extend seasonal use of the space.
For music, mount hidden speakers synced to home audio systems.
Screens can provide shade and seclusion while still allowing fresh air flow.
Landscaping is key to make the sunken area feel like an outdoor room.
Use trees, shrubs, planters or trellises around the perimeter as green walls.
Edge the opening with potted plants and vines for tropical appeal.
Extend stone or brick decking into the pit for visual flow.
Elevating and framing the space beautifully blends indoors and outdoors.
For versatility, include a central fire feature like a gas-burning fire pit, chiminea, or tabletop fire bowl to provide warmth and ambiance during cooler weather.
The fire’s glow adds a magical quality after dark.
Surround with ottomans or swivel chairs that can circle around the flames.
Fire tables with built-in ice bins keep drinks chilled.
Well-designed conversation pits promote relaxation and deep conversation.
The intimate scale and protected layout filters out noise and distractions.
Whether catching up with close friends or quietly reading, conversation pits become backyards sanctuaries.
Building in versatile seating, optional screen walls, and portable heating enables enjoyment all year long.
Frame Gorgeous Views
One advantage of decks is expanding living space to enjoy the outdoors.
Make the most of beautiful backyard views by framing focal points through strategic design and décor.
Sightlines from the deck guide the eye to notice striking vistas.
Framing views captures nature’s artwork.
A simple way to frame views is arranging deck flooring and boards to direct eyes towards focal points.
Extending long horizontal boards outward visually arrows attention to landscapes beyond.
Placing vertical boards strategically behind furnishings frames views between the slats.
Angled flooring also funnels sight from various directions to feature panoramas.
Incorporating transparent elements helps frame views while allowing light and visibility.
Glass balusters lined up along the deck railing act like a picture window to remarkable scenery.
Clear acrylic outdoor drapes softly filter and highlight views.
Sections of glass windscreen showcase specific focal points when closed while disappearing when open.
Shrewd placement of plants and structures can also frame beautiful scenery.
Arrange planters, shrubs, or garden edges to peer through voids to eye-catching spots.
A pergola, arbor or well-placed tree trunks act like a natural viewfinder.
Position hanging chairs to swing into perfect viewpoints.
Steer bench orientation to capture the best angles.
Lighting expands opportunities to enjoy evening views on the deck.
Spotlights aimed at garden focal points or trees illuminate gorgeous nighttime scenery.
Silhouette distant objects against the sunset or moonlight.
Lanterns and candles generate magical ambiance after dark.
Sometimes less is more for ideal framing.
Clearing clutter, screens and distracting accessories enables clear sightlines.
Simple furnishings allow uninterrupted enjoyment of the views.
Maintaining and pruning plants prevents obscuring lovely vistas.
Framing deck views invites you to fully appreciate the surrounding beauty.
Built-in Planters
Incorporate built-in planters seamlessly into your deck design to add beauty while managing messy dirt.
Planter boxes integrate greenery and color without taking up floor space.
Look for deck-mounted planter designs or build custom planters to match your decor.
Consider placement carefully to complement views and flow.
Good spots for built-in planters include along the edges and perimeter, in corners, surrounding supports, under railings, along steps and framing entryways.
Built-in bench seats often have planter boxes cleverly incorporated below the seat surface.
Planters flanking both sides of stairways add flourish while guiding people safely up and down.
Select deck planter materials to match or contrast your color scheme.
Wood, composite lumber, galvanized metal, and weatherproof fabrics like canvas seamlessly blend in.
For contemporary flair, try concrete, stone, or colorful ceramic planters.
Self-watering planter liners prevent leaks onto decks below.
Ensure planters have proper drainage.
In terms of plants, opt for easy-care varieties that thrive outdoors with minimal maintenance.
Succulents, ornamental grasses, herbs, and dracaena live well in planters.
Trailing vines, bright flowers, and edible greens cascade beautifully over the edges.
Mix heights, shapes and seasonal varieties for year-round interest.
For food gardens, try compact vegetable plants like cherry tomatoes or hot peppers.
Proper soil, drainage and irrigation are crucial for healthy plants.
Use cactus mix soil for succulents and moisture-retaining potting soil for herbs and veggies.
Line planters with landscape fabric to prevent soil leaking.
Conceal drip irrigation lines and self-watering systems behind the scenes.
Lighting up deck planters extends enjoyment into the evening.
Use solar powered or low-voltage LED lights.
Uplights highlight dramatic plants while downlights create ambient glow.
The right plants can handle shade or full sun areas.
Planter boxes built-in to the structural design of your deck integrate functionality, beauty and easy access to nature.
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Separate Dining and Lounge Areas
Dividing your deck into distinct functional zones helps segregate uses and simplify furnishing options.
Designate separate spaces for dining, conversation, lounging, and play areas based on deck size and layout.
Defining each zone’s purpose makes decorating and furnishing intuitive and straightforward.
Use the shape of the deck to delineate different zones.
A rectangular deck may have dining space in one corner and a lounge area along an edge.
Break up open floor space on larger square decks into multiple functional areas.
For small decks, carefully place a few flexible multifunctional furnishings to allow uses to evolve.
Changes in floor materials, decking direction, elevations, and railings styles help define separate zones.
Painting borders and trim different colors to match nearby furnishings unifies areas.
Area rugs layered over decking designate cozy spaces.
Built-in benches, planters and screens create boundaries.
Careful furniture arrangement further distinguishes deck zones.
Face seating toward views and conversations inward.
Leave pathways open between groupings.
Position pieces at appropriate distances based on their uses.
Repeat design elements like colors, materials and styles in each area for cohesion.
Proper lighting illuminates each space according to function.
Bright overheads lights illuminate dining and cooking areas.
Low ambient lighting sets a relaxed lounge vibe.
Landscape lighting accents plants and architecture.
Ambient string lights overhead create magical mood.
With intentional planning, small decks can even delineate separate spots for dining, sunbathing, gardening and more.
Maximize use by selecting multipurpose furnishings.
Separating outdoor spaces into purposeful zones makes decks more enjoyable and easier to furnish elegantly.
Fire Features
Fire features add warmth, light and style to deck designs.
Watching mesmerizing flames creates instant ambiance for relaxation and connections.
Fire pits, fireplaces, chimineas, and tabletop fire bowls come in many shapes, sizes and styles.
Choose functional and beautiful options tailored to your decor.
Freestanding fire pits allow flexible placement wherever people gather, views are best, or utilities are accessible.
Prefabricated concrete, stone and metal fire pits suit contemporary architecture.
For more natural charm, try stacked stone or large cast iron bowl styles.
Self-contained portable fire pits operate on clean-burning bioethanol.
Integrate fireplaces and chimineas into built-in masonry for permanent ambiance.
Materials like stucco, stone, brick, concrete block beautifully blend with deck designs and landscaping.
Ensure proper ventilation and heat shields.
Wood-burning chimineas manage smoke yet provide rustic character.
For quick stylish warmth, tabletop fire bowls bring the glow up close and personal.
Fueled by bioethanol, propane or gel, these mini fire pits sit atop dining tables, bars, side tables or pedestals.
Fireglass crystals reflect flames in glass bowls for a stunning effect.
Lift and move portable tabletop fire features anywhere outdoors.
For safety and ease, look for fire features with automatic ignition, adjustable flame heights, and ventilation options.
Use heat-resistant stone or tiles around portable units.
Avoid positioning directly beneath roof overhangs.
Monitor children and pets closely.
Integrate fire extinguishers and blankets nearby.
Fire features require occasional cleaning but avoid the hassle of storing wood.
Fireglass, lava rock, and burner covers amplify beauty.
Group comfortable seating at optimal viewing angles to enjoy flickering ambiance.
Fire features lend warmth, beauty, and harmony to deck designs any time of year.
Water Features
The tranquil sights and sounds of moving water enhance deck design.
Water features like ponds, fountains, rain chains and splash pools add serene ambiance and drown out traffic noise.
Stylish water accents can match deck architecture and range from modest to lavish.
Small tabletop fountains with peaceful cascades bring miniature water zen to decks.
Prop near seating areas for relaxing bubble sounds.
Larger pedestal fountains sculpturally spill water down artistic tiers into collecting pools.
Frame entryways or highlight specific views.
For focal points, incorporate waterfalls designed specifically for garden walls, facades, and deck railings.
The gentle sound soothes stress.
Dramatic multi-level waterfalls become artistic centerpieces.
Ensure pumps are sized for optimal flow and drainage is directed away from the home.
Rain chains dangling from gutters funnel rainwater down in an artistic drizzle versus boring downspouts.
Made from copper, glass, or steel, rain chains come in dangling, spiral, and cup styles.
Pair with rain barrels or sculptural splash blocks.
More elaborate options like backyard ponds, streams and pools require extensive planning and permits but provide ultimate tranquility.
Deck-level ponds with floating plants blur indoor-outdoor boundaries.
Raised profile ponds easier maintain.
Place pondless waterfalls away from decks for safety.
Properly installing and maintaining water features prevents issues like leaks, flooding, and stagnation.
Clean pumps and change water regularly.
Use distilled water to prevent mineral deposits.
Install timer-based or solar-powered re-circulating pumps for self-contained convenience.
Locate access points for maintenance.
The soothing qualities of water make worthy additions to outdoor decks.
Visually interesting cascades, spouts and ripples delights the senses.
Water features drown out noise allowing peaceful relaxation.
Amplify with surrounding greenery, decorative stones and accent lighting.
Cozy Seating Nooks
Tucked-away cozy spaces on decks foster intimacy and privacy.
Small seating nooks allow quiet conversation, reading or just pondering in solitude.
Build out functional alcoves or screen off forgotten corners to create secret deck hideaways.
Enclose nooks with built-in bench seating, planters or low walls on two or three sides.
Cushioned benches draped with weatherproof blankets and pillows create mini refuge.
Hang rattan chairs or swings from the overhead structure for secluded relaxation surrounded by nature.
Install retractable screens or partitions to further delineate intimate spaces that can open up when wanted.
Cafe curtains hung from deck rails enclose a bistro ambiance.
Freestanding screens or shutters mounted to posts privatize nooks while allowing breezes.
Position seating nooks to take advantage of shade, sunlight, views or other deck features at different times of day.
Morning coffee nooks overlook sunrise views, while sunset spots highlight evening skies.
Shady reading corners provide afternoon reprieve on sunny decks.
Outfit cozy spaces with amenities to enhance the comforting vibe.
Side tables hold snacks, drinks and books.
Soft lighting like pendant lamps, lanterns and string lights sets a serene glow.
Rugs layer visual warmth and softness underfoot.
Keep accents minimal for casual tranquility.
Incorporate surrounding nature to further cocoon nooks.
Built-in or potted plants create living walls of greenery overhead and on sides.
Position near trees, garden edges or water features to invite the outdoors in.
Cozy seating tucked into secluded deck spaces allows relaxing in solitude or intimate conversations that larger gathering areas don’t permit.
Dedicate cherished spots for hobbies like reading or enjoying coffee.
Even small decks can carve out a special refuge.
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Dramatic Lighting
Creative lighting transforms decks from day to night.
As the sun sets, well-placed lighting defines areas, spotlights features and sets magical ambiance.
Combine lighting types such as overhead, silhouette, lantern and string lights.
Use smart technology to control moods, themes and timing easily.
During the day, flush mount or recessed ceiling lights provide overall illumination needed for tasks like cooking and cleaning.
At night, dramatic lighting takes over.
Spotlights aimed at architectural or landscape focal points highlight unique design details.
Up lighting placed discreetly under benches or steps create soft glow.
For intimacy, hang pendant or chandelier lights over dining tables.
Tailored lampposts light walkways while preventing glare.
Silhouette distant trees and structures by placing lights behind objects.
This backlighting makes beautiful silhouettes.
Lanterns lining stair railings and hung in trees twinkle charm and safety.
Flameless candles flicker allure on tables.
Commercial grade string lights safely add a festive glow when draped overhead.
For versatility, install outlets to power portable lighting options in flexible locations as desired.
Today’s lighting technology allows easy customization.
Smart bulbs like Phillips Hue change colors and dimness via smartphone.
Group lights in zones on controllers and program for one-touch ambiance control.
Sync music and lights to create choreographed backyard parties.
Use motion sensors and timers for convenience.
Follow local codes and manufacture guidelines for outdoor lighting.
Use cooler color temperatures like 3000K to avoid harsh glare.
Position thoughtfully to prevent blinding views.
High-quality LED lights withstand weather and offer energy efficiency.
With the right lighting, decks transition into evening oases.
Thoughtful illumination provides beauty, safety and functionality into the night.
Layers of light sources, glow levels and placement transforms decks after dark.
Outdoor decks continue to evolve as popular backyard escapes.
Design and decor trends keep pace with homeowners’ desires for stylish, functional spaces to relax and entertain.
Use these inspiring modern decorating ideas as springboards to create your ideal deck oasis.
Choose durable materials, versatile furnishings, dynamic design elements and decorative lighting suited to your personal taste and lifestyle.
With the right combination of trends and creativity, your dream deck lies just outside your door.
