Deck Design Ideas (With Tips On Bringing Your Vision To Life)

The ultimate backyard deck design idea, destination decks have a pathway that leads from your house to a pad, creating a fun and unique outdoor space. This makes use of your yard's best features by allowing you to install your new deck wherever you please.

An open deck design creates a breezy entrance to your yard. It also provides extra room for relaxing and cooking outdoors. Not locked in by railings or walls, this simple veranda can make your backyard space into an unconstrained paradise.

Feel free to expand beyond the confines of your house! You can place a floating, unattached deck anywhere on your property to maximize the space. Decks by gardens or water features in your yard will be a welcome respite from the outside world.

Looking for professionals who can draw a perfect plan for a permit to bring your deck ideas and designs to life? Get fast building permits with MySitePlan's beautifully-drawn plans in just 24 hours!

Looking for decking designs and ideas that really catch the eye? Adding curved lines is the way to go! It can also break the monotony of square corners on your house. The curved railing is more difficult to install but also makes for a beautifully designed area.

These are amazing at capturing the summer rays for those who love to tan or lounge in the sun. The most common designs for sun lounges have a sunken area where a cushioned sitting area will lie. These areas can also include a central firepit for the perfect ambiance while entertaining.

These wood deck design ideas are perfect for the environmentally-conscious homeowner. Naturally blended decks make use of natural environments, like trees and grass, and incorporate them into the design! When built around your yard's natural features, they are a sure way to win over home admirers.

A pergola gives shade and a perfect spot for outdoor dining or lounging with a table and chairs. Pergolas add an element of romance to outdoor areas that set off your outdoor living space nicely.

They can add an amazing outdoor space to your home on the second and third floors and beyond. They often provide the best view and are popular in cities. Consider a terrace complete with an outdoor garden for your design!

Poolside havens for lounging and enjoying a semi-private covered area. Adding these structures offers an exotic feel to your home that will make them a dream to escape to.

Wrap-around decks maximize the space around your house, offering ample room to unwind and enjoy the surroundings. These deck and patio design ideas are also perfect for homes with a view, as they offer a panoramic vista of the surrounding area.

Raised decks are similar to leveled ones but can be taken to an even higher level! You can place these on stilts or raise them above the house to provide a better view or a space with more solitude. A raised veranda can offer a fanciful aspect to your space that has endless possibilities.

Covered decks and similar enclosed deck design ideas are popular in rainy areas like the Northwest. They allow homeowners to enjoy their outdoor space even when it's raining. They will also provide a safe storage area for your belongings, like grills or spas.

Built-in seating is one of the best space-saving enclosed deck design ideas that also offers plenty of seating areas for guests. Benches built into the railing can go a long way to provide comfort anywhere you happen to be on the deck. Sunken decks also offer built-in seating benches that provide the perfect place to entertain.

Many homeowners have taken to pergolas with adjustable shading options with roller shades. This can make an outdoor space even more comfortable and private. Dividers and shades can transform an area with solitary and inviting nooks. Think about which way your deck faces and how much sunlight you want before deciding how much shade you want.

Picking the right design means finding a balance between your style, desired functionality, and outdoor space. 

Is it for quiet relaxation, entertaining guests, or as a private retreat? For those who love to host, open decks and pergolas offer ample space and a welcoming atmosphere.

If your home has nice views, decks can make your outdoor moments more enjoyable and scenic. Sun lounge areas attract people who enjoy the sun. On the other hand, individuals who love a combination of style and nature may prefer something curved or natural.

Curved decks, for example, can add a unique aesthetic but may require more effort to install. If you're environmentally conscious, naturally blended decks that incorporate your yard's existing features could be the perfect match. For homes in rainy climates, covered decks ensure that your outdoor space is usable year-round.

Remember, the choice of a deck is not just about today's use but also about adding value and charm to your home over time. It's about creating a space that resonates with your lifestyle and complements your home's architecture.

Consider seeking advice from an expert who understands your specific needs and the unique characteristics of your property. This expert can provide guidance tailored to your situation. This way, you'll ensure that your deck not only meets your current desires but also adapts to your evolving lifestyle.

If you’ve narrowed down your deck designs and ideas and you’re now ready to start planning your build, then follow these five steps:

If you have some experience building wood structures (say, a kids’ treehouse or backyard shed), you may be able to handle building a deck yourself. However, if you’ve never done any home construction, a deck isn’t the easiest project to start with. You may find that it’s actually more cost-effective to hire professional contractors.

Think carefully about what kind of deck you want (remember, you can use the deck design ideas above as inspiration!).

Important factors to consider include the materials you want to use, the size of the deck, and the deck’s placement. Consider all of these factors with a realistic financial plan in mind. You don’t want to start on a huge project only to find out halfway through that you’ve accidentally used up your kid’s entire college fund.

See your city’s rules for adding additions to residential property. To ensure that development codes are being met, most U.S. cities require that a site plan be obtained before they issue a building permit.

Since it is illegal to begin significant construction projects without a permit, this is an extremely important part of the building process. Luckily, site plans are easy to obtain through MySitePlan. Once you have your site plan and your building permit, you’ll be ready to begin building.

Draw out a design of your deck. If this is new to you, take your drawing to a building professional in your area (try a Lowe’s or Home Depot), and they’ll help you through it.

Make sure to consider the dimensions of your desired deck and the actual dimensions of the land you’ll be building on. Then, head to a home supply center (Lowes or Home Depot to the rescue again), gather your materials, and you’ll be ready to go!

Okay, admittedly there are some sub-steps here. The first is to learn your deck-building lingo (“box still,” “center beam,” and “footers,” just to name a few). After that, it’s all about following your plan, measuring accurately, and following through. Places like This Old House or The DIY Network can help walk you through the building process.

After that, you’re done! Have some friends over, light up the grill, and invite the neighbors to gaze on in envy while you kick back on your brand new deck.

Need a site plan for your deck permit? MySitePlan can provide one in just 24 hours to help get your project approved!