9 Inspiring Deck Ideas and Designs

Updated: Jul. 13, 2023

Whether wood or composite, decks offer a place to relax, soak up the sun and entertain while also adding value to your home. If you're thinking of adding a deck or updating an existing structure, here are 10 deck designs to inspire you.

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Deck with Modern Railing

You can give an old deck a new look by adding modern railings. This deck design from Supreme Deck Builders features black balusters that give the deck a modern look when combined with wood railings. The railing elevates what would otherwise be in line with traditional wood deck designs.

Photo: Courtesy of Supreme Deck Builders Inc.

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Deck with a Fire Table

Add some coziness and comfort to your deck by building a fire table. Large deck designs like this one from Affordable Views by RJB Construction offers a space to relax and warm up thanks to built-in benches next to the fire table.

Photo: Courtesy of Affordable Views by RJB Construction Inc.

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Deck with Privacy Fence

One of our favorite deck design ideas, this partially covered deck from Deome Builders has an area with a built-in hot tub and a privacy fence. Converting a deck railing into a privacy screen blocks views and drowns out noise and wind.

Photo: Courtesy of Deome Builders Inc.

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Deck with Pergola

If you need a little relief from the sun on your deck, build a pergola. Outback Builders designed this deck which offers a shaded area thanks to a pergola, along with a sunny, open area.

Photo: Courtesy of Outback Builders

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Composite Deck

Composite decking materials, such as those used in this wrap-around deck from Eckhoff Construction, are low-maintenance when compared to wood. And it will likely last much longer than traditional wood deck designs. Composite is also a great choice for small deck designs that don’t require a lot of material.

Photo: Courtesy of Eckhoff Construction

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Deck with Built-in Bar and Benches

Deck designs like this one from Carlson Projects has a built-in outdoor bar and benches that create a space for entertaining or extra seating. The stand-up paddle board storage area is both convenient and a conversation piece. Get inspired by these multi level decks with sweeping views and multiple seating areas.

Photo: Courtesy of Carlson Projects Inc.

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Small Deck with Patio
http://hobsonlandscapes.com/carpentry/small-yard-deck-patio/

Small Deck with Patio

Small space? No problem! This design from Hobson Landscapes offers a small deck combined with a patio to make use of the mini backyard. It’s the perfect place for family and friends to gather.

Photo: Courtesy of Hobson Landscapes

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Large, Open Deck

This large, open deck design has plenty of space for relaxing and dining. Since it is low to the ground, they didn’t include a railing around the entire deck. Always check local building codes.

Photo: Courtesy of Decks Unlimited

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Deck with Spiral Staircase

Another one of our favorite deck design ideas, a spiral staircase gives this deck an updated look. The tight pattern takes up less space then stairs coming off the deck perpendicularly.

Photo: Courtesy of Screwheads Decking and Supply