Garden with decking
15 Outstanding Decking Ideas To Inspire Your Garden Transformation
Decks are a versatile way to create new areas in your garden and define spaces. Irrespective of your garden style, there are decks that can work with any design, and with any size or shape of garden. But with so many options, which deck will you choose? If you’re looking for inspiration that you could translate into a real-life deck in your own garden, these 15 decking ideas are a good place to start.
1. Raised Rustic Deck
Blending rustic materials with modern designs is a simple way to achieve a high-end contemporary feel in your yard. This raised deck uses clean lines and lots of straight edges to create a minimalist style while teaming it with dark wood full of character to give the garden an authentic aged feel. The color of the deck has been well chosen to match both the fencing and the furniture, which produces a seamless look.
As well as being visually attractive, the way in which the deck is raised serves the purpose of defining this area of the garden as the seating area. Adding definition in this way helps to ensure different spaces in the garden get used in the way they are intended and make the most use of the space.
2. Private Pergola
This pergola over a decked area helps to create an intimate space where you could dine or simply relax with a book. The pergola helps to offer some privacy to the decked area and further helps to define the boundaries of the deck.
If you’re looking for a traditional English country style in your garden, a pergola is the way to go. Painting the wood in a classic shade of sage green or duck-egg blue will further add to the country chic style of the pergola, reminiscent of private English gardens.
While the pergola is stylish all on its own, you can enhance its beauty by hanging flower baskets from the top planks or by planting climbing plants at the base of the deck to trail up the pergola. In this instance, the color of the deck has been matched with the color of the top pergola beams so that the whole thing appears to be one unit.
3. Rooftop Retreat
Decked areas aren’t reserved solely for decks in the garden and can be used to make a roof terrace feel like a homely place to hang out. Most roof terraces have concrete flooring, so adding decking to the floor really helps to make the space feel more usable and gives it a cozy feel.
By transforming your roof terrace into a private sanctuary, you’re essentially adding another room to your home, just that this one is outside (and might even have great views!)
To help create a comfortable vibe where you want to spend time, fill your rooftop retreat with plants and string lights. Bunting also helps to add a splash of color to your space, which could be matched with seating to link it in. This rooftop deck features plant pots that have been constructed from reclaimed palettes. This further adds to the shabby chic look of the terrace.
4. Stylish Sundeck
If you’re after a sophisticated style, a chic painted sundeck is a classy option.
This sundeck has been painted in an elegant dove gray color to match the sunbeds and the exterior of the property. Keeping everything the same color, or at least slight variations of the same color, creates a fluidity of design, which comes across as very tasteful and understated. The continuation of color also helps to create the illusion that the space is bigger than it actually is.
If you plan to paint your deck, always clean your deck first with a specialized deck cleaner or a pressure washer to remove any debris that would prevent the paint from sticking. Always use paint that is intended for exterior woodwork, as this will ensure it lasts longer, though typically, painted decks will need to be repainted every few years, anyway.
5. Dark Deck
This decked area has a few design features going on that make it an excellent addition to a property. First of all, the covered roof is a brilliant way to make the deck feel like part of the home. Instead of being just an area of the garden, by adding a roof and adjoining it to the home, it feels more like an extension of the property.
The roof adds protection from the sun, creating shade and a slightly cooler space than the rest of the garden, so the owners have the option to sit on the deck and enjoy being outside even on very hot days.
The roof also offers a structure from which you can hang string lights or grow climbing plants, which helps to add a ‘lived in’ feel to the space, creating a more pleasing interior design. By keeping the sides of the decked space open, the garden is invited into the area. This means you truly get the best of both worlds, the comfort of feeling like you are inside and protected from the elements while still being close to nature.
The deck has also been painted in a dark color, which helps to anchor it to the floor visually and further create a sense that it is an additional room rather than an outdoor deck.
6. Popular Ponds
For a while now, ponds have been considered a little dated, and they aren’t commonly found in many gardens as they are typically associated with old-fashioned homes.
However, if you are a fan of water features in gardens, then a great way to bring them into the 21st century is to surround the pond with a deck.
Adding a decked area around the perimeter of a pond really helps to modernize it, especially if the pond is specially cut to fit around the shape of the pond as seen in this image. A deck can be used to create a walkway around any water feature, not just ponds. By updating ponds with decking, they are sure to find popularity again.
7. Commercial Common Area
This office building has used decking to create an attractive outside area for its employees to spend their breaks or lunch hours as an enjoyable place to unwind and relax during the workday. Using a deck to produce pathways gives the space a more aesthetically appealing quality, which is conducive to relaxation.
The deck has been completed in a pale color, which helps to keep the area light and bright without it being bold and intrusive. The addition of plants and trees helps to ensure the space is alive with positivity, helping to keep employees in a good frame of mind.
8. Traditional Raised Deck
This raised deck idea is commonly found in backyards across the country, and the reason that it is so popular is that it works so well. Constructing the deck at a raised level is a clever way to make use of uneven ground around your property, with steps leading down to a leveled area.
In this example, solar lights have been fitted on the steps to light up the stairway. This makes practical sense as it will help anyone from accidentally missing a step and falling over, but it also works well at a design level, as it makes the deck look more visually appealing.
Wooden banisters around the deck are a key safety feature to prevent anyone from falling off the side of the raised deck and injuring themselves, but it also helps to create a partially enclosed area so that the deck feels almost like a room itself. The wooden banisters could be used to wrap string lights around, to grow climbing plants up, or to sit window boxes of flowers or herbs on.
This deck has been kept in its original color, which maintains a traditional feel.
9. Decked Bistro Area
This timber garden studio has had a deck built in front of it, which provides a perfect space to position a bistro furniture set. Using a deck to create an area for a table and chairs or other furniture works well because it provides a flat and level floor for them to sit on. A lawn would not work as well, because the feet of the furniture might sink into the ground, and the constant moving of chairs to tuck in and out of the table could create unsightly rough patches on your lawn.
Paving slabs are often used to create similar patio areas, but these are becoming increasingly unpopular as people opt for decking that looks more natural and cozier. Having a wooden decked floor outside helps people to feel more comfortable, as wooden floors are commonly found inside, whereas paving slabs are obviously for outdoor use only.
10. Outdoor Living Space
This raised deck is very inviting thanks to the use of soft furnishings that you would typically find inside the home.
Bringing these items outside creates a cozy external living space that will encourage you to spend more time outdoors.
To reproduce this look, choose rattan furniture, or rattan effect furniture, which is suitable for keeping outdoors but has a more comfortable feel than metal or plastic outdoor furniture. Soft furnishings is what will really transform your outdoor deck into more of a living space, so drape chairs and sofas in soft blankets and plush cushions, and use an outdoor rug to give the area different textures. Cushions that are water-repellent are available and can be kept outdoors all summer without you having to worry about them in the event of a shower. You could also use indoor soft furnishings as long as you bring them in after each use.
11. Dinky Deck
This backyard is evidence that decks can be created in any size. Despite the small stature of this deck, it does make a big impact. Both the shape and color of the deck set against the gray pebbles make it visually interesting, but it also serves the practical purpose of designating an area for a specific use.
In this case, you could choose to set a coffee table in the deck to rest books and magazines on, or you could fit a compact dining set on the deck as it provides a flat, stable surface for furniture that the pebbles do not. This round deck also reminds us that although decks have straight edges, they can be cut to form any shape.
12. Parquet Balcony Deck
If you like the idea of decking but want to step outside of the box, then deck laid down in a pattern could be a good route. This deck has been created in the style of parquet flooring and gives a sleek look while nodding back at a bygone era.
Deck laid in patterns gives an interesting aesthetic because it is so different from the usual parallel lines we are used to seeing in decking. However, as it is a uniformed repeating pattern, it still looks classy.
This deck has been formed using deck tiles. These tiles are essentially several pieces of timber joined together to create a square, which you can then lay down in whichever pattern you wish.
For anyone wanting to attempt their own DIY deck, decking tiles are probably easier for a novice to install than regular decking boards.
13. Bespoke Pool Deck
Having your own private pool in your backyard, or in this case, built onto your balcony, is the dream. If you’re lucky enough to be living out this dream, then creating a deck leading to the pool could be your next project.
Building a deck around your pool instantly updates the look of the whole pool area and can breathe life back into an old, dated pool. As well as looking like your garden belongs in a high-end spa, decking around the pool also serves a practical purpose.
Wooden decking, being a natural material, is much more forgiving if you were to fall on it than concrete. If you have kids around your pool who are liable to slip over with wet feet, then timber decking could give you peace of mind that if they fall, they won’t sustain any bad injuries.
Decking, so long as it is properly maintained, doesn’t get slippery when wet, which hopefully means that fewer falls will happen in the first place.
14. Walking on Water
If you’re keen to install a grand design in your garden, then this futuristic design might appeal to you. Constructed to look as though it is floating on the surface of a pond, this structure is both bold and sleek.
Though at first it might appear as simply a work of art, it actually has practical uses. The central part of the structure offers a seating area, while the slanted part is actually a roof offering some shade for those sitting underneath it. The pathway leading up to the seating area is decked in a mosaic style to stay in keeping with the unusual design. The decking, which would have been built on top of posts or boulders underneath the surface of the water, creates the effect of a bridge laying atop the pond.
While the minimalist look of the design is very stylish, it may not be entirely practical for everyone. The lack of sides on the ‘bridge’ means that if anyone were to misplace a foot, they would end up getting rather wet.
Due to this element, such structures are not recommended for anyone with small children or pets who might accidentally slip into the pond.
15. Grand Entrance Deck
For imposing houses such as this one, a shiny decked porch perfectly suits the grandeur of the design. The natural coloring of the deck, brought to a high shine with layers of varnish, perfectly captures the colonial revival style of interior design, albeit on the exterior of the property. The deck has been intentionally created to mimic the look of indoor wooden flooring so that the porch feels more like part of the home rather than part of the garden, though it’s important to note that only deck which has been specifically created for use outside should be used on porches as they will be subject to the elements.
The luxurious look of the deck also comes from the way in which it has been color-matched to other parts of the space. The top rail of the surrounding banisters has been left natural rather than being painted white like the rest of the rails, as well as the magnificent double door.
The addition of plant pots and furniture further helps to make the porch an in-between space, neither indoors nor outdoors. It features several elements that make it feel like an interior room, such as the chairs, the door rug, the interior style deck, and the ceiling. But it also has elements that draw it out to the garden, such as the exterior wall lights and the plants. Cleverly composed to create an area that allows you to have the best of both indoors and outdoors, this deck is an example of a fantastic porch.
Garden decking ideas to add interest to your outdoor space
When it comes to your outdoor space, one of the first aspects to consider is your patio or terrace area. Garden decking ideas are a wonderful place to start - they help provide zones and boundaries and help set the scene for how and where you want your planting to look.
Whichever style of garden landscaping ideas you opt for, there's certain to be a type of decking to suit.
Decking ideas for the garden are usually quick and relatively cheap to install.
The ground beneath doesn’t require levelling, so you can cover an uneven surface, or even an existing terrace. It’s warm underfoot and also good for roof gardens.
Wooden decking needs regular oiling to maintain its colour and be aware that cheaper woods tend to warp and move over time. Consider spending a bit more of your budget on pressure-treated timber, to prevent having to spend more further down the line.
'Correctly applied, the pressure treatment significantly improves the durability of the timber,' says Janet Sycamore, director at The Timber Decking & Cladding Association .
'Standard specifications are for a 15-year service life, but 30 or even 60 years can be achieved. Pressure treatment allows sustainably sourced timber species to be used effectively.'
Garden decking ideas
When choosing timber, make sure it is FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certified, so you know it’s come from a sustainably-managed forest. The other popular option is composite, which is made from resin and reclaimed wood fibres.
'Composite decking only needs an occasional gentle brush and wash,' says Ash Read, home and property expert and founder of Living Cozy. Another plus is that it's UV stable, meaning it won't fade like natural woods can do. So all you need to know is how to clean decking when it needs a good refresh.
Not sure what to choose? There's a wealth of garden decking ideas to suit all lifestyles, budgets and tastes ahead. So pick your perfect design and you'll be hosting the best BBQ for friends and family in no time.
1. Team natural timber with a painted seating area
(Image credit: Cuprinol)
Natural timber always looks lovely in a garden and pressure-treated softwood is available as smooth or grooved board options. Smooth decking resembles floorboards so it's a good choice if that's what you have in your home and you'd like a seamless indoor-outdoor connection. Be sure of the correct way to lay decking boards before you get started.
If you have a wooden fence and timber furniture as well as decking it can tend to look a bit 'woody'.
To prevent this from happening paint your fence and outdoor furniture in a fresh palette such as white and green to complement the decking and blend easily with your planting.
To ensure your paint finish looks as good as it possibly can, make sure to do your homework when it comes to how to paint decking.
2. Go pale and interesting
(Image credit: Ronseal)
Back from Ibiza and want to evoke that laid-back white isle feel in your back garden? Choose a white-wash finish for your decking boards. Do consider your lifestyle first though. If you have pets that are prone to muddy paws, this may not be the look for you. It won't feel relaxing if you have to have the mop out every day.
However, if all you have to contend with are a few dry leaves and the usual outdoor detritus, go for this cool and calm style. Maximise that beach party vibe, by adding some mood-setting deck lighting ideas to your space.
'Whitewash stains and paints give decking, walls and fences a welcomed cooling effect whilst providing plenty of protection from the weather,' says Owen Wright, Trend Researcher at Trend Bible for Ronseal.
3. Get creative with a stencil
(Image credit: Ronseal)
Another advantage with pale or white boards is that it gives you a blank canvas to get creative on. If you like to add your own spin to things, buy a stencil and choose an appropriate decking paint to create a fun pattern.
Make sure you place your artwork away from heavy traffic areas like the pathway to the door, so that it lasts the season or longer.
4. Coat with a rich dark wood stain
(Image credit: Sadolin)
Not mad about the colour of the decking you've had laid now it's down or want to enhance existing boards? Give it a luxurious look with a rich dark oil to offset colourful furniture choices. Even better if the dark finish contrasts with your home's exterior, as both will stand out more.
5. Create cabin style
(Image credit: Future / Polly Eltes)
An enclosed and covered deck idea is a great spot to relax and unwind. There's some protection from the sun's harsh rays yet you still get to enjoy the outdoors.
So give it a private hideaway cabin feel by mixing warm-toned timber decking on the floor with cooler toned grey painted shiplap cladding on the exterior walls.
Furnish with monochrome pieces and rustic accessories to complement the natural tones and add lighting, so you can stay out after dusk.
6. Take it onto the walls
(Image credit: Future / David Giles)
For those with a raised garden, a good way to connect the lawn area with the patio is to continue decking boards onto the low wall that separates the space, as well as for a garden path. This will give a more coherent look and is especially good in small spaces. Consider whether you might want a deck railing idea for safety, depending on the height.
'To aid drainage for rainwater, both timber and composite deck boards should be fitted with a (slight) positive fall and if grooved, the grooves should be fitted in the direction of the fall to avoid the potential for standing water,' says Janet Sycamore at TDCA.
'Always check the fitting instructions from the manufacturer and install accordingly.'
7. Have fun with folk style
(Image credit: Future)
White walls and floors give you the freedom to decorate a space in whatever way you like. Have fun with folk style to bring a summer festival feel to your deck with colourful clashing cushions, patterned rugs and an abundance of floral decorations.
Of course, to keep it looking fresh, white painted decking will need regular cleaning and touch ups.
'Spills on any decking should be cleaned up quickly and if there is potential for staining to occur, use the recommended cleaning product,' says Janet Sycamore at TDCA. 'If a protective finish has been applied to the deck, then this should be reapplied in line with the supplier’s or manufacturer’s guidance.'
8. Balance cool and warm tones
(Image credit: Future / Joanna Henderson)
Opting for a smooth rich timber decking paired with white exterior walls is a gorgeous way to balance warm and cool tones on a terrace or patio idea.
This can be enriched with your choice of furnishings and accessories too.
Choose the natural tones of rattan and timber combined with plenty of comfy white and dusky pink cushions, plus pops of grey to ground the scheme.
9. Go for a country garden theme
(Image credit: Future)
For a natural look, UK-grown hardwoods such as Oak or Sweet Chestnut will offer traditional quality, durability and authentic country style. Then all you need to add is plenty of planters filled with meadow flowers and a couple of sun chairs.
'Oak and Sweet Chestnut will weather naturally into silver and greys,' says Russell Bowlby, UK Hardwood Decking . ‘These UK-grown hardwoods are durable timbers that will withstand the elements in excess of 30 years without negatively impacting the environment, assuming they're appropriately installed and maintained with periodic cleaning.
‘They're locally grown which reduces the harmful effects of transport, and treatment-free, so won’t leach harmful chemicals.
Unlike treated softwood, they do not become slippery and green, as the timber cellular structure does not absorb excess water, thereby limiting algae growth.'
10. Add floor lights
(Image credit: Future)
When the sun goes down, the party starts, so make sure you can see where you're going, especially if any part of your decking is raised.
If that's the case have garden solar lighting ideas fitted into the vertical part of the step. There's no wiring involved, so they're easy to fit. They will simply be charged by the energy of the sun during the day. Then after sunset, a sensor in the the lamp will register the lack of sunlight and the LED light will switch on.
11. Continue the decking onto steps
(Image credit: Future PLC/David Giles)
Not every home is built level with the outdoor space, so consider integrating the steps with your scheme. Simply build you outdoor steps in the same timber or composite as the decking you're using on the terrace area.
Steps are notoriously slippy in inclement weather, so make sure to choose an anti-slip material and clean the area regularly to keep natural woods free from algae or moss.
12. Colour match to your house exterior
(Image credit: Valspar)
Make a statement by painting your decking to match the colour of your home.
'When repainting a decking area, preparing your surface is really important to enable you to get the best finish,' advises Will Thompson, Head of Product Marketing at Valspar Paint . 'First, clear away all items such as plant pots. Then remove any loose or flaking with paint stripper or by sanding. Then clean your decking with a stiff bristled brush or broom.'
'Holes or cracks in the wood can be easily repaired with a wood filler. Once the filler is dry, use sandpaper to sand down the whole surface. To remove the leftover dust and give the whole deck a final clean, wipe it with a Decking Cleaner and let it dry. If you notice spots of bare wood after removing flaking paint, or if you’re drastically changing the colour (for example, going from a dark shade to a lighter one), you will need to apply a primer and undercoat first.
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'Once this is dry, it’s time to give your decking a new colourful life. For painting choose the application method that better suits your need among a paint roller or a decking pad. They will both deliver a uniform yet vivid coat of paint. On the other hand, keep brushes for painting in restricted spots.'
13. Add a brick border
(Image credit: Future PLC/Nigel Rigden)
Make your decking area into even more of a visibly zoned space by adding a border. Just like patio edging ideas, it's wise to think practically and use paving or bricks, as they can typically be cleaned using similar substances to the decking.
Flowerbeds make pretty borders, too, but make sure you leave enough gaps for people to move easily between zones without trampling any of your blooms.
14. Integrate space for a firepit
(Image credit: Future PLC/David Brittain)
What even is an outdoor space without a firepit idea these days? Take this into consideration right from the off by building in space for your evenings around the fire.
Not only does this set a lovely focal point to your terrace, but having the firepit on stones you won't be have to be worried about having to sweep up ash remnants, or be concerned about lively sparks.
15. Contrast with your fencing style
(Image credit: Havwoods)
Cool, composite decking ideas make a perfect contrast with weathered wood boards. Choose one to make up your outdoor decking, and the other for your fencing. This way, you get a stylish look and get the best of both materials. Our natural inclination would be composite on the decking and real woods for the fence area.
16. Choose bleached woods for a lighter feel
(Image credit: Future PLC/Dominic Blackmore)
Keep a smaller space light and bright by using bleached woods. Eyes won't be overly drawn to your decking, which would highlight the petite dimensions of your patio. Maximise the effect by painting external walls or fences white.
17. Zone dedicated garden areas
(Image credit: Future PLC/Alisdair Mcintosh)
Zoning our outdoor spaces is a popular way to make a garden reflect how we live indoors, an outdoor living room idea of sorts.
Using two different flooring choices helps the give the garden a sense of purpose, a clear indication of a different zones.
A dedicated dining area benefits from an easy clean decking, a play area lends itself to be on a lawn to cushion play and a relaxation zone complete with fire pit is most suitably finished with paving slabs.
18. Add a decking area to a garden room
(Image credit: Future PLC/Claire Lloyd Davies)
Create a dedicated outdoor area for a garden room by laying a decking area beyond the retracting doors. The frontage provides a space to sit outside, making it an extensive of the extra living space.
Frame the compact decking area with simple yet thoughtful planted borders, that separate the decking and the structure from the remaining garden. Don't forget to complete the effect with dramatic garden lighting ideas for the perfect decked garden that will work well into the evening.
19. Carve out a cooking area with raised decking
(Image credit: Future PLC/David Giles)
Give an outdoor cooking area it's own raised decking, to add a signify a dedicated outdoor kitchen zone.
The use of wooden flooring helps add an indoor style element to an outdoor kitchen idea.
Also from a practical point of view a wooden decking can be easily washed down and is less likely to be damaged as a result of kitchen accidents with dropped plates and more.
20. Echo the aesthetics of a modern extension
(Image credit: Future PLC/ Nick Huggins)
More than purely practical, decking can decoratively echo designs that feature throughout the decor. If your home features large glazed panels or windows at the back, link the decking with interior choices. Think matching wood colour or style to kitchen cabinetry, your flooring or even your furniture.
21. Raise the levels to meet the floor plan
(Image credit: Future PLC/Simon Whitmore)
Raise a decking area immediately off the indoor living space creates an easy flow from indoors to outside. A great idea for a decking area being used for entertainment, making it a safer journey from one zone to another.
The perimeter is the better place to stagger steps down onto a lawn area.
22. Co-ordinate in a small space
(Image credit: Future PLC)
When planning grassless garden ideas, like a small courtyard or balcony garden idea, it's best to keep the look uniform to avoid overwhelming the space with different colours and textures.
Choose a matching decking stain and fencing. While the planks don't have to be the same in terms of finish, the uniformed colour alone will be enough to create a seamless flow in the design.
23. Stage an area dedicated to entertaining
(Image credit: Forest Garden)
Chose a hearty composite decking to provide a protective area on top of a patio, perfect for entertaining and garden party ideas. The Ecodek Heritage composite deck kit provides an instant, stylish area that is quick and easy to build.
'Made of a wood & plastic composite,' say the experts at Forest Garden . 'It's designed to have the look and feel of natural timber with the additional benefits of a material that will not stain, warp, split or flake, has minimal fade and is easy to maintain.
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Practical and pretty, the grey finish is idea for styling your outdoor area to perfection – matching the colour with bistro dining tables, soft furnishings and accessories.
24. Build-in an easy care succulent garden
(Image credit: Future PLC/Jamie Mason)
Keep your decking looking fresh and modern by swapping a cluster of plant pots on the decking for a built-in succulent patch. Not only will it make a striking centre-piece to your garden, but they are also incredibly easy to look after. As long as they are planted into a light weight succulent soil mix, all they will need is a little watering during the hotter months.
25. Cover your decking with a glazed pergola
(Image credit: Future PLC/Polly Eltes)
A glazed pergola idea on the deck provides an alfresco entertaining area that can be used whatever the weather – we find spaces like this especially inviting in the rain, when you can hear the soothing sound of rain drops hitting the glass.
Train pot-friendly easy climbing plant ideas like honeysuckle and magnolia to cover the uprights for heady fragrance.
A well-designed decking space or roof terrace can offer an all-year-round option. Taking your living space into the outdoors is a hot trend right now, so statement garden furniture coupled with cushions and throws will make the outside as comfortable and personalised as indoors.
26. Make your decking weatherproof with an anti-slip treatment
(Image credit: Cuprinol)
Decking plus rain can equal danger, so it's wise to treat your decking with an anti-slip stain. A sail canopy will also keep the rain off, to further limit the slippy potential of the surface.
27. Lay a boardwalk
(Image credit: Future PLC)
Use decking to create a pathway through your garden – perhaps to a more solid decked area. This boardwalk-style garden path idea is given even more of a seaside feel with white pebbles, which help to keep weeds at bay.
28. Build a decked bar area
(Image credit: Future PLC/Simon Whitmore)
Enhance your garden bar idea with a stylish decking solution. Make your bar take pride of place by situating on a raised decked platform. Adding lighting as part of the decking set up feels to add ambience to an outdoor bar area. It's also a good idea to lay a rug under bar stools so there's a grippy surface to step onto after a couple of cocktails!
29. Try a darker colour on your decking boards
(Image credit: Cuprinol)
Decking is often quite pale or in warm natural woody shades, so this will lend a more unusual, contemporary look to your terrace. Dark, muted decking also allows the vibrant surroundings to steal the show – so if you want people to focus on the lushness of your garden, it's the way to go.
30. Level uneven ground
(Image credit: Futre PLC/Darren Chung)
Garden decking ideas are absolutely ideal if your garden is uneven or on a slope.
It's great for levelling out awkward spaces or sloping garden ideas, as it's built on a structure. It can also have split levels and include steps.
31. Be bold with colour
(Image credit: Future PLC/Tim Young)
Give a small decking area some special treatment. Block-coloured brights in various complementary hues are sure to make an impact. If you have wooden furniture you're thinking of getting rid of, a coat of paint will give it a new look and repurpose it for the garden. Do make sure to choose a weather-resistant finish, though.
A hit of bold colour is great way to enhance small garden ideas, to make more of a statement with a tiny space.
32. Mix decking among flagstones
(Image credit: Future PLC/Annaick Guitteny)
Get an ultra-modern look for your garden by mixing wooden decking with stone paving. The combination of materials provides interest and a contrast between the light and dark colours.
Without the lightening effect of the stone, the wood decking would look quite heavy in such a large garden.
Architectural beds in the middle inject some greenery.
33. Section off your decking with railings
(Image credit: Future PLC/Robert Sanderson)
If you're using decking to section off a corner of the garden, adding railings will help. For a truly indoor-meets-outdoor approach, include a water-resistant rattan sofa and plenty of comfy cushions in a patchwork of bright patterns.
There is a lot of vivid colour to be found in nature, so they won't look out of place against the vibrant greens of surrounding trees.
34. Make flooring flow from indoor to out
(Image credit: Future PLC/David Hiscock)
Make your garden decking an extension of your home. Decking can be easily levelled with your internal floor so that the boundaries between inside and outside are almost blurred.
A trellis idea overhead adds some cover and shade, and plants can be trained up and over it to add interest. Outdoor kitchen cupboards make preparing outdoor meals a cinch.
35. Paint raised beds white in contrast
(Image credit: Future PLC/Jake Curtis)
Plant raised flower beds to add interest to the centre of your decking. It avoids having a large area of open decking and also elevates the plants so that everything isn't at ground level. Create a striking look by choosing contrasting, monochromatic colours for the beds and the decking.
36. Build matching floating stairs
(Image credit: Future PLC/Jody Stewart)
Soften the hard edges of your decking with an abundance of pretty flowers and herbs that creep right up to the door. Floating steps made out of the same material as the decking create continuity between the two levels and add a note of fun by bridging the water feature below.
37. Use decking to reinforce an incline
(Image credit: Future PLC/David Giles)
Decking provides a sturdy flooring solution for a sloping garden. Level off the different areas and use a supportive floor option to give the space structure.
Enclose the slope safely by framing the garden decking ideas with wooden balustrades.
38. Create a rustic look with weathered decking
(Image credit: Future PLC/Polly Eltes)
Dark weathered decking can to the rustic appeal of a garden. Choose a material that will weather well and surrounding the raised decking with perennials. If you have the space, consider building in a shallow pond or other water feature idea below the decking for a truly striking garden.
How do I keep my decking clean?
Remove all furniture and start by brushing all dirt and debris from the decking before washing it with decking cleaner and hosing down with water. It's also worth investing in a pressure washer to ensure your decking stays looking new, year after year.
'Tackle your patio or decking by using a pressure washer to spray away any moss and grime that might have built up over the winter months,' advises Sophie Herrmann, Brand Manager at Jeyes . 'Ensure that the settings on the pressure washer are suitable for your deck.
Otherwise, it could potentially damage the surface of your deck. Consider using a specialist outdoor cleaning product to remove algae, mould, mildew and dirt from patios, driveways and tarmac.'
Where's the easiest place to lay decking?
You need a flat, level surface, so laying it onto an existing patio or concrete base is the most straightforward way. to build a deck into earth or grass, dig out to a depth of 5cm and cover with weed-suppressing fabric and gravel. Paving slabs are then laid on top to support the deck's framework and prevent rot.
How do I lay decking is my garden isn't level?
You'll need to elevate the deck. This is a more complex job involving squaring off the site and concreting joist support posts into the ground before building the frame. a raised deck should have safety balustrades and, if it's adjoining a structure or building, will need to be attached securely.
How do you lay deck boards?
Once the sub-frame is in place, boards are laid on top, horizontally at right angles to the joists, and fixed with screw.
A gap between each board means they can expand and contract, and allows rainwater to drain. Leave a new deck to weather for about six months before staining or oiling.
How do I stop my decking from becoming slippery?
Use non-slip boards such as Gripsure (at Homebase), or fit non-slip inserts (these can be retro-fitted) - see gripdeck.co.uk . Make sure that water can drain (flat, rather than grooved boards are better in this respect) and treat with a topcoat to prevent mould and algae.
Lots & Decked Gardens - Top 135 Photos, Lot & Garden Landscape Design
DUMBO ROOF GARDEN MAKEOVER
Amber Freda Garden Design
Check out the spectacular views on this Brooklyn rooftop garden! Our design included a total makeover of a previously barren space, including replacing the dingy looking concrete pavers with ipe wood deck tiles. We also designed a custom L-shaped ipe bench with seats that lift up for storage and planters filled with soft grasses built into the back of the bench.
The lush looking plantings in this garden are in a mix of ipe and fiberglass pots and include Tardiva hydrangeas, white multi-stem birch trees, Mexican feather grasses, boxwoods, angelonia, purple coneflower, and a weeping redbud tree. The planters are illuminated with LED low-voltage up-lights for a dramatic nighttime effect. nine0007
Los Altos Hills
April Philips Design Works
The Spa, spa deck, water feature and greenwall.
Original design example of a small modern backyard solar plant wall with good lighting and decking
South Beach in Chicago
Chicago Specialty Gardens, Inc.
Daybed of ipe with custom cushions and pillows. Aluminum planters featuring Karl Foerster feather reed grass
Stylish Design: Medium size rooftop yard and garden in contemporary style with midday shade and decking - the latest trend
Townhouse garden
Neil Jones Design
Using a refined palette of quality materials set within a striking and elegant design, the space provides a restful and sophisticated urban garden for a professional couple to be enjoyed both in the daytime and after dark .
The use of corten is complimented by the bold treatment of black in the decking, bespoke screen and pergola.
Coastal Modern Farmhouse (Industrial, comfortable and budget friendly)
Brittany Stiles Design
A 1940's bungalow was renovated and transformed for a small family. This is a small space - 800 sqft (2 bed, 2 bath) full of charm and character. Custom and vintage furnishings, art, and accessories give the space character and a layered and lived-in vibe. This is a small space so there are several clever storage solutions throughout. Vinyl wood flooring layered with wool and natural fiber rugs. Wall sconces and industrial pendants add to the farmhouse aesthetic. A simple and modern space for a fairly minimalist family. Located in Costa Mesa, California. Photos: Ryan Garvin
E 18th Ave
Aloe Designs
Custom multi-level cedar raised vegetable beds.
Design ideas for a contemporary backyard garden with decking
Our first bbq storage cabinet
Hand Crafted Projects
This is our first contemporary, made to measure bbq storage unit, to order yours go to our website.
In the photo: a large summer regular garden in the backyard in a modern style with midday shade and decking from
Spa deck and screen
Dorthy Pautz Landscape Architect
a raised deck was added so that a new corner spa could be nestled into the garden and be seat height, eliminating the need for steps up to a tall hot tub. A removable section of the deck allows access to the mechanical panel in the spa. A cut-corner spa was selected to allow more circulation around the spa. Custom lattice panels with a narrow trellis top complete the spa experience and provide privacy from adjacent houses in this tiny urban garden. nine0007
Japanese Inspired Backyard Santuary
Bradford Associates, LLC
Drone technology shows the backyard after construction and installation was complete.
Pictured: small summer garden with oriental style backyard pond with midday shade and decking c
Pergola
Little Miracles Designs
Fresh design idea: modern backyard yard and garden with fire pit and flooring - excellent interior photo
1790 South Ocean Boulevard | Manalapan, FL | Intracoastal Estate
Pascal Liguori & Son
Exotic Asian-inspired Architecture Atlantic Ocean Manalapan Beach Ocean-to-Intracoastal Atlantic Ocean Views Pool With Atlantic Ocean Views Wood Decking Natural Sea Grapes Chaise Lounge Chairs Natural Dunes Japanese Architecture Modern Award-winning Studio K Architects Pascal Liguori and son 561-320-3109 pascalliguoriandson.
com
16th Ave
Urban Botanics
Transformation of a sloped backyard into terraced rooms, with focal points defining the use of each terrace: lounge area with firepit/fireplace, hot tub, edible gardening beds, a turfed play area, children's playhouse. Scope of work included new redwood fence, lighting, irrigation.
Ha-Ha Hills
Juxtapose Design Build
During excavation for this new modern home, large granite boulders rose to the surface from the primordial hillside. Instead of displacing these monoliths from the site from which they were created, they were arranged to define space. A circle of boulders stand guard around a custom built fire pit, providing protection from the wind while offering a place to climb or sit. The extended landscape view from the lawn is kept intact by the introduction of a ha-ha, a traditional landscape feature, that hides the productive garden and keeps it from breaking the view.
Native and drought tolerant plantings hug the outer edges of the property for minimal use of irrigation and to visually blend into the surrounding hillside. This project also features a custom ipe bench with integrated lighting, waterjet address numbers with night lighting, and hardscape that complements the form and materiality of the architecture to create a harmonious transition into the horizontal plane. Photography: Louie Jeon Photography
Fairfield Beach
Barbara Wilson Landscape Architect, LLC
Photo by Barbara Wilson Landscape Architect, LLC A small residential, seaside property located on Fairfield Beach, Fairfield was renovated by the new owners and adapted for their active family. Barbara was the landscape architect in charge of all of the landscape elements upgrades. She designed new bluestone curving paths to access the front and side doors and designed new landscape lighting to enhance the walks. The existing trees were saved and she designed new shade and salt-tolerant plantings which were added to provide seasonal color and interest while respecting the existing plantings.
Along the beach additional front native beach grasses were added to stabilize the dunes while removing some invasive plantings. This work will be phased over the next few years in an effort to keep the sand stable. Beach roses were incorporated into a hollow in the dunes. A small lawn area was renovated and the surrounding Black Pines pruned to provide a small play area and respite from the sun. Beautiful reblooming hydrangeas line the edge of the gravel driveway. Rounded beach stones were used instead of mulch in the island planting along the edge of the adjacent road planted with Miscanthus, Mugo pine and yucca. Barbara designed a custom kayak rack, custom garbage enclosure, a new layout of the existing wooden deck to facilitate access to the side doors, and detailed how to renovate the front door into only an emergency access with new railings and steps. She coordinated obtaining bids and then supervised the installation of all elements for the new landscape the project. The interiors were designed by Jack Montgomery Design of Greenwich, CT and NYC .
Tree work was completed by Bartlett Tree Experts. Freddy's Landscape Company of Fairfield, CT installed the new plantings, installed all the new masonry work and provides landscape maintenance services. JT Low Voltage and Electric installed the landscape lighting. nine0007
Wooden decking in garden design, photo, material selection, installation rules, deck care
You will probably need to mix in some concrete for the supports, but if you skip this step, you can simply run decking across the garden - over old concrete patches, large rocks and slopes - and finish it in one weekend. nine0003
Everything about creating a lawn. The best recommendations. Reading...
If you need a seating area but don't have time for a patio, decking is the perfect solution. A small area with wooden decking, located in the sun in the backyard, will be the calm place where you can relax.
Boardwalk is as much fun to make as it is to use.
However, this is only true if you take the time to design and plan all the details of your idea. The answers to the following questions will help you with this. nine0003
How are you going to use the wooden flooring?
Do you need wood deck for barbecue parties or for kids to play on?
Do you want the flooring to be structurally connected to the house or to stand alone?
Do you want the deck to be raised with legs or more or less level with the ground?
If you plan to place wooden decking on creeping soil, do you need advice from, say, a civil engineer?
Do you want wooden decking to curve around the corner of the house like a Japanese engawa, or to be brought forward like a pier?
Do you want to build a budget option or are you going to use the most expensive woods?
Everything about creating a reservoir.
Reading
Will your construction in any way affect the neighbors' plot? For example, would a raised 9 break0110 flooring their personal space?
Are there any power lines running over your garden that could interfere with your project?
In some areas, this type of work requires a permit. Do you need such planning permission?
Decking options
's low level decking is perfect for pond patios, while a tree in the middle of the decking provides shade in summer. nine0003
Raised deck on the porch with railings and grating - these steps will be nice to go down to the garden.
Extensive decking maintains a sense of privacy thanks to the installed mesh screens.
How to Build Raised Boardwalk
Dig holes 96 cm apart. Lower a concrete block into each hole and pour a post with a square section with a side of 7.5 cm into the concrete.
Saw a plank with a section of 8 by 3.5 cm into segments of the required length, determine the desired height of the flooring and nail the planks to the posts. nine0003
Stuff the inner frame with planks so that the spacings are approximately 30 cm apart. Lay a 10 cm wide x 3 cm thick floorboard over the frame.
This raised boardwalk is well suited for a wild garden where the ground is uneven.
Tiered decks
Tiered decks are a good option if your site has a slight slope or if the top step needs to be raised above an existing structure such as an old foundation or underground drainage. nine0003
Look at garden path designs
Everything about the construction of the rock garden. Reading...
Other options
In essence, the deck is a wooden platform, so there are many options for its use. You can make a deck path winding around the garden, a deck assembled from railway sleepers, steps, a bridge in the form of a deck, a boardwalk around a tree, a series of decks in the form of terraces rising up a slope, an elevated platform near the water, etc.
