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.
9 Inspiring Deck Ideas and Designs
![Modern Deck Designs](https://www.familyhandyman.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/modern-design.jpg?fit=696%2C696)
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.
![Deck with a Fire Table Pit](https://www.familyhandyman.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/deck-with-firepit.jpg?fit=696%2C696)
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.
![Deck with Privacy Fence](https://www.familyhandyman.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/partially-covered.jpg?fit=696%2C696)
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.
![Deck with Pergola](https://www.familyhandyman.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/deck-with-pergala.jpg?fit=696%2C697)
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
![Composite Deck](https://www.familyhandyman.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/composite.jpg?fit=696%2C696)
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
![Deck with Built-in Bar and Benches](https://www.familyhandyman.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/bar-and-benches.jpg?fit=696%2C696)
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.
![Small Deck with Patio](https://www.familyhandyman.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/small-deck-with-patio.jpg?fit=696%2C696)
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
![Large, Open Deck](https://www.familyhandyman.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/large-open-deck.jpg?fit=696%2C696)
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
![Deck with Spiral Staircase](https://www.familyhandyman.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/spiral-staircase.jpg?fit=696%2C696)
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