Decks can be designed to complement great views.
Adding a deck can increase the value of your house along with providing an outside entertainment space. Deck designs can range from covered or screen-in decks to multilevel decks to frame-less decks that blend into the natural landscape. Deck designs depend on what purpose for which they're being used, including surrounding a hot tub or creating a spot for your grill and outdoor furniture. Does this Spark an idea?
Pool/Spa Decks
Create a circular area, and close in the sides and top to create a little spa hut. Leave one side open, and install windows for ventilation. Model the design after the Japanese tea houses. Install a slanted roof that comes to a point. Match the wood with the deck, preferably in a natural stain. Create an oval opening that overlooks a section of the garden. Another design would include sinking the hot tub or small pool into the deck. Do this on raised decks, and make the steps on the side of the pool or hot tub the same type of wood and stain as the deck.
Deck Railings
Deck railings no longer just have to be solid wood with standard deck rails. Use tinted glass or high-quality plastic for the deck railings while still using the wooden frame. These types of railings reduce view obstructions. Stain or paint the deck a solid, deep color for additional contrast. Use ornate cast or wrought iron railings with solid-colored wood or composite columns placed between railing sections and entries. Solid-colored composite or wood deck floors, especially maroon or deep reds will complement the iron and create an old-world look. For a minimalist ground floor deck, only use small railings near steps that are made of solid wood with possibly an Asian-inspired trellis in one corner.
Sloped Landscapes
For deeply sloped areas or for pathways that lead down to waterways and roads, create a stepped deck. Break up every 10 to 15 steps with deck landings large enough to fit patio furniture. Or, install benches into the sides of the landings for resting points. Continue this pattern until the bottom. If the end of the deck leads to an overlook of lakes or mountains, create a large landing with built-in benches and enough room for other patio furniture and a grill. For wooded landscapes, keep your stain natural, or stain it to match surrounding environment. For extremely green landscapes, experiment with dark greens with black, wrought iron railings.
Lighting
Use solar-powered lights that either contrast or complement deck railings. Place on ends of deck columns and/or underneath deck stairs for ambient lighting. Use triangular, woodsy or Asian designs for interesting twists to classic lights. Use larger post caps for entrances. Use floodlights to highlight deck features like hot tubs and to provide for extra illumination.
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