We did some research and consulted with the professionals we work with, and we have produced this article with one purpose only: to help you choose the most suitable deck for your small yard. Here are nine deck design ideas that can help you make the most of your small outdoor space and take advantage of all its opportunities. Consider these ideas for beautifying your outdoor space while keeping it functional. With the right deck design, you can create an outdoor living area that’s perfect for entertaining, relaxing, and enjoying the fresh air.
Let’s start with the multiple-level deck, our favourite! Why, because it’s a great way to make the most of your backyard space. Dining, relaxing, and gardening areas create visual interest in your backyard and maximise the space available. To make the transitions between levels smooth use steps, ramps, or built-in seating. You can position furniture and planters strategically to define zones and create a cosy atmosphere in your backyard.
You can build floating decks directly on the ground without footings or support posts, saving space and making them versatile. They are a simple and inexpensive way to create outdoor seating or entertaining areas. They are constructed using either deck blocks or concrete piers. Make the deck more appealing by adding benches, planters, or privacy screens around it. Use light colours on the deck boards to create a lighter atmosphere.
You can make the most of your yard by using previously overlooked corners. Creating a seamless transition between your indoor and outdoor living spaces enhances the flow of your home. It’s cosy and efficient, unlike a flat deck, since it fits snugly against the exterior walls. Install a pergola or canopy over your corner deck to keep it shaded and protected. Inst?l built-in seating or storage benches along the edges of the deck to optimise seating and storage in a compact footprint.
Another great option for a small yard is an L-shaped deck. It’s practical and adaptable, so you can arrange your outdoor space however you want. Due to its specific shape, it gives the illusion that the available space is bigger than in reality. You can designate one section of the L-shape for dining and the other for lounging or gardening, effectively creating separate zones for various activities. Add built-in benches or storage boxes along the edges. Deck out the area with potted plants and other decorative elements to make it more homie and inviting.
You don’t have a yard at all? We’ve got you covered there, too. The roof can be turned into a deck with a beautiful garden. It’s the perfect place to relax above the city noise. The first step is to consider weight restrictions, building codes, and waterproofing guidelines when designing a rooftop deck. When the sun sets in the summer, you will witness breathtaking views and a quiet retreat for relaxation and entertainment, as well as low-maintenance materials like composite decks and aluminium railings.
Simple and minimalistic decks built directly on the ground without rails or stairs are ideal for small yards and also for your wallet. The transition between your house and your garden areas feels natural, they’re perfect for level or gently sloped terrain. Expensive materials don’t necessarily mean the maintenance will be less, you can easily build it with low-maintenance materials like composite decking or pressure-treated lumber, so you don’t have to worry about cleaning them.
To optimise the backyard space and you don’t have a shed in your garden, you can build a raised deck with built-in storage underneath if you want both storage space and a deck at the same time. Elevating your deck will open space for storing outdoor furniture on rainy days or chilli seasons, gardening tools, and seasonal items. With sliding doors, hinged lids, or removable panels, the deck will be easy to access and look great. To conceal storage areas and create a cohesive look with the rest of the yard, install lattice or slatted panels around the perimeter of the raised deck.
There are two adjacent sides to this type of deck, and you can walk across it without stepping into the yard. They’re usually L- or U-shaped, depending on the deck’s design and the house’s layout. In most cases, a wrap-around deck encompasses the back and at least one side of the house, and sometimes, it may even surround the entire home. If your home is big enough, we recommend a wraparound deck, but consider using high-quality materials. Finally, the most important consideration is whether to DIY the deck yourself or enlist a contractor to take it on. Wrap-around decks can be a lot of work, so hiring professionals is great.
9. Deck with Built-In Planters
Integrate greenery and natural beauty into your garden by building a deck with built-in planters or planter boxes. By incorporating planters into the deck design, you can add colour, texture, and visual interest to the outdoor space while maximising square footage. Choose a variety of plants, flowers, and herbs that thrive in your climate and provide year-round appeal. Consider incorporating irrigation systems or self-watering planters to simplify maintenance and ensure optimal plant health. Use planters to define boundaries, create privacy, or screen unsightly views, enhancing the overall aesthetics and functionality of your small yard.
In conclusion, these nine backyard deck ideas offer creative and practical solutions for maximising space in small yards. You can transform your outdoor space into a relaxing and beautiful place for entertainment and connection with nature by choosing a type of deck that compliments your home, whether it is with built-in planters, a raised deck with storage, or a wraparound deck. Your small yard can feel spacious, inviting, and tailored to your needs and preferences with careful planning and the right design. If you’re not confident in your DIY skills or simply prefer to have professional assistance, hiring a landscaper can greatly simplify the deck-building process and ensure a high-quality result.
