Deck Decor Ideas

Whether you use your deck for entertaining or simply sit there to relax and enjoy the view, you will find many possibilities for upgrading your deck’s potential for any activity. The following text discusses ways to transform your deck into your ideal outdoor living space.

What differentiates a deck from a patio is that it generally sits above the ground and is made of wood. Both of these qualities mean that annual inspection of the wood’s condition is a must. Every deck owner must check the wood for signs of insect infestation and rot. Depending on the wood, seasonal treatments may also be necessary. Some might prefer to give the deck a fresh coat of paint for an updated look.

An existing deck is a great start as long as it suits your needs. Decks can be enlarged with more decking or with a gazebo or pergola area. Sectioning off the deck for various types of activities will make for a more enjoyable space. For instance, if possible, allow for a place for cooking, sunbathing, dining and gardening.

Screening in a portion of the deck with a gazebo allows for mosquito-free evenings to dine and enjoy cocktails. A pergola does not offer the same protection as a gazebo, but it can add to the privacy and visual appeal of any setting especially when studded with attractive hanging plants. Shelter for your deck can also be achieved by installing an overhang. An extra bit of shade is nice for seating guests who may not want to sit in the sun.

Deck seating adds a lot to the look of your setting. For small decks look for seating that doubles as storage receptacles. For instance, many benches open up to store items like pool maintenance kits, gardening tools or grill utensils. Larger decks offer the opportunity to add sumptuous outdoor seating. From elegant wrought iron patio sets to freestanding hammocks, seating and lounge furniture is both functional and decorative.

If your deck is a site of seasonal entertaining, consider adding an outdoor bar to the area. Bars come in many styles or can be custom fitted to your deck design. Install vertical storage above the bar to conserve space and add sleek outdoor barstools to top it off. If space permits, add some additional café tables or go all out and install an outdoor kitchen for the grill master of the home.

Consider adding a hot tub to your deck. Whether open or enclosed by screens, your deck will be a popular spot for relaxing and enjoying the great weather. Take necessary safety precautions especially if your tub is sunk in the deck. These features can also be better defined with deck plants in containers or decorative tiles.

Because the deck is an extension of the home, it makes sense to tie both features together with similar colors and decorative elements. For a modern deck, consider adding sleek steel railings and a contemporary water feature that mounts right to the house. For a rustic deck, consider using wood burning tools and leaf stencils to make your deck a one-of-a-kind. Plants also add a pleasant dimension to the deck. Be sure they are well-tended and contained. Without potted plants and hanging baskets a deck can appear bare and even unwelcoming.

Be sure to add suitable lighting to your outdoor space. An overhang or overhead structure allows for outdoor lighting fixtures like old wrought iron chandeliers, but even simply stringing lights can add charm to evenings on the deck. Simple props like pieces of outdoor pottery and candles can also add pleasant decorative appeal.

Of course, a deck can be more than simply the outdoor extension of the house. Many deck owners opt for a thematic décor style which can be great fun for the decorator as well as visitors. A poolside deck can be done in a Nantucket style filled with sailing implements and seaside props like a lighthouse-style gazebo and star-fish studded netting above the bar. An oriental style deck can also make for a dramatic theme. From a bonsai centerpiece atop a low table to exquisite paper lanterns, this theme has lots of options.