Creative Ways To Use Decks

Whether pitching new ideas to clients or updating colleagues on the status of a project, decks are vital tools for many creative roles. They communicate a lot of information in a short amount of time.

Keep reading to learn about some creative ways to use your decks. These tips will help you create a more visually appealing and informative presentation.

Camp Under The Stars

Camping under the stars is a unique experience. But it’s becoming more challenging to find areas with dark enough skies for stargazing, especially near cities. Fortunately, your deck is a great spot to enjoy the stars with your family. Set up a tent, and bring sleeping bags, pillows, and blankets to spend the night enjoying the summer stars with your loved ones.

Decks can feel cold and bare without warmth, but you can warm them with cozy blankets and outdoor area rugs. You can also add an oversized daybed, like this one by Vanessa Alexander, for an intimate space to read or meditate in the sun. Consider chamfering your deck’s corners for expressive lines. This design element softens the sharp edges of your composite deck and draws attention to the focal point of furniture and decor.

Add Stately Columns

Adding columns to your deck is a great way to keep your structure secure and add a stunning appearance to your space. Powder-coated aluminum columns like those offered by AFCO are load-bearing and come in various shapes, styles, and finishes to match your aesthetic.

Using them to frame a pool is a way to add a little luxury to an open outdoor area. They can also be an alternative to a roof, shielding you and your guests from whipping winds or harsh sunlight.

Putting a unique twist on a classic home feature, this deck incorporated two-story columns across the front of its porches to create a grand entryway. This design strategy is ideal for flipping a house or bringing new life to an existing one.

Add A Seating Area

A seating area on your deck is a gathering spot that encourages conversation and laughter. Toss a few comfy chairs, a table, and side tables on your deck to create an informal lounge space.

To frame a beautiful vista, place a settee or couch along a wall that faces the view and add two rocking chairs on the other side with a coffee table between them. A bench in the center of your deck can also provide a cozy seat for sipping mimosas or reading your favorite book.

When deck space is limited, efficient design and intelligent styling can make a cramped outdoor area feel inviting. Add storage solutions like deck boxes to keep chair cushions, blankets, and other outdoor accessories out of the elements and at hand.

Add A Bar

Add a bar to turn your deck into the perfect spot to host a party. From a simple bar chart to an entire tiki-themed area, there are plenty of ideas to choose from.

You can quickly build a deck bar with pallets and plywood. Leave the wood natural for a rustic look, or stain it to match your deck’s decor. Then thread string lights between the slats for an inviting centerpiece you can make in one weekend.

If you need more space for an entire kitchen, add a pass-through bar with a window to serve cocktails and drinks without leaving guests outside. This idea is great for beach homes with decks facing the ocean or pool.

Add A Fire Pit

A fire pit creates a cozy outdoor space for a night of stargazing, roasting marshmallows, or enjoying a glass of wine. It also allows for more seating options on a deck.

Wood-burning fire pits can be used on combustible decks as long as the manufacturer approves and you follow certain safety precautions. This includes using a fire pit pad made of non-combustible materials to prevent heat damage from the open flame and glowing embers.

Build a temporary wall with pavers, brick, or stone around your fire pit to protect it from embers and sparks. Use landscape block adhesive to secure the pavers or bricks. Ensure the fire pit is far from anything flammable, including your home or patio furniture.