What the Deck?

Get ready to do decking differently...

You know the routine;

every summer, we emerge from our homes and step out onto our neglected decks and think, “Wow, we really need to update this space.” And we tell ourselves, “Next year, I’ll get on that…” But somehow, we never seem to get around to it. Decks offer us so much. They’re outdoor entertaining spaces, where we gather with friends and family for cookouts and relaxing evenings of chatting ‘til dark. They're cozy spots for moments of relaxation. They’re basically an extra room added onto our homes, whether we use them as outdoor kitchens, a sunny spare offi ce or the kids’ play place. In between naps in the sun and manning the grill, let this be the year you fi nally make plans to take your deck from “fi ne” to “fabulous!”

Ready to think differently about your decking? We looked for the latest tips and trends to help you make the most of your outdoor areas. by Amanda Harper

Samsel Architects

Easy Transition

One of the biggest architectural trends is making indoor and outdoor spaces virtually seamless. This home lets the deck ramble along its architecture, encouraging guests to meander through the home and backyard. The outdoor kitchen and bar is easily accessed from both the main kitchen and the screened-in porch. Guests can wander along to the hot tub, wander down the hill to the family's fi re pit or head up for a hike in the woods. By building the deck from concrete and stucco, it feels like a natural extension of the cut stone pathways. If you want this to work for you own home, consider how you can connect your spaces so the transition from indoors to outdoors is an easy one.

HGTV

Keystone Custom Decks

Trex

Think Outside the Box

Some of the most innovative deck ideas are taking shape in interesting ways. (Pardon the pun.) If you want an outdoor space that looks like it was truly built just for you, consider an interesting shape. Throwing curves and angles into your design can be an architectural challenge, but one any experienced builder would be thrilled to meet.

Stuck with a rectangular footprint? Talk to your architect about your vision. You may have options for rounding out the edges or creating more visual interest – or even the illusion of curves – with clever railing or overhangs.

McCown Design

Detach Yourself

While we advocate for easy transitions from one space to the next, that doesn't mean everything has to be perfectly chained together. This bayside home shows the power of separating your spaces. This detached cabana serves as a changing room for the pool as well as an outdoor conversation spot. The fi replace and hot tub make it cozy year-round, while the television offers lots of entertainment.

But that's not their only outdoor area! The home features a stunning screened-in deck with a dining area and two separate conversation areas.

Material, Girl!

What's the biggest reason you're procrastinating on redoing your deck? I bet it's the age-old grumble, "When am I gonna have to re-do it next?" You're in luck! One of the biggest trends in decking right now are durable materials that are made to last. Many of these materials can look just like real lumber... or look nothing at all like traditional woods! They offer endless customization options and plenty of fl exibility to mix and match for interesting designs and a unique look. TimberTech