Whether you have an existing deck or are planning for a new one, you likely will have a few ideas of how you could take your deck to the next level. We mean that both figuratively and literally! Let’s check out a few ways to use a multi-leveled deck and surrounding outdoor area.
Recommendations range from a TV/entertainment enclave to a playroom for kids. We’ve also seen that area turned into a reading or meditation space. Another option is to put an exercise bike and yoga mats underneath. Meanwhile, the top tier will be your deck! Don’t forget to waterproof the underside – especially if you have electronic equipment under it.
Speaking of water features, raised decks are great for hot tubs. It’s almost as though it’s made for a spa or hot tub. Place this underneath your deck for privacy and to shield you from the sun’s rays. While we’re at it, a koi pond or fountain will make a nice addition to your backyard oasis.
As for a new deck build, you have the perfect place in your yard, but there’s a tree right in the way. It’s not a problem; simply build your deck around the tree! The tree will provide shade in the summer months, and it will be a lot less work and expense than taking it down. Best yet, you’re saving a tree while giving a creative and beautiful look to your deck and yard. Use the tree to partition the deck off and build those raised platforms.
Our favorite part: set up a spot for a table (or two) for your guests to congregate and eat. Depending on how much space you have, you could install an outdoor kitchen. This makes serving food to your guests a breeze. Install a refrigerator so you’ve got a cold beverage within reach. If you want to opt for something lower key, a firepit off to the side is a wonderful way to enjoy socializing and s’mores-making.
Lastly, dramatic lighting will highlight your deck design. It can be planned with the shape, height, and curvature of your deck and patio. You will have your deck and garden path illuminated, and your added lights will improve your deck and surrounding outdoor areas.
Top Tier
We say this as though it is the “top of the line” concept, but this can be as easy or extravagant as you wish. Your existing or planned deck will be tall so that you can make a spacious nook under your deck. There are many options for what to do with this area. Dreaming up ideas when thinking about how this specific space will be best utilized is fun.
Recommendations range from a TV/entertainment enclave to a playroom for kids. We’ve also seen that area turned into a reading or meditation space. Another option is to put an exercise bike and yoga mats underneath. Meanwhile, the top tier will be your deck! Don’t forget to waterproof the underside – especially if you have electronic equipment under it.
Mixing Materials
Whether you constructed a deck from wood or composite (like Trex), using several other materials to complement it is an aesthetically pleasing possibility. Wire railings, stone walkways, brick patio boundaries, and a glass balustrade are gorgeous enhancements to upgrade your backyard and patio. Adding a staircase (or even two!) is convenient for traversing your deck’s domain and provides a decorative addition that will increase its value. Plus, a few short steps combined with a longer stairway will make your deck, patio, and yard more navigable.
Why Not a Water Feature?
Did you know multi-level decks are the perfect pairing for a pool? A deck is the ideal solution if you have an above-ground pool. Having the pool right next to your deck makes sense! Take a break from the pool and dry off in the warm sunshine. Conversely, when it gets hot, submerge yourself in the cool water. Don’t forget to use sunscreen – the UV rays can be deceptive, even on cloudy days.
Speaking of water features, raised decks are great for hot tubs. It’s almost as though it’s made for a spa or hot tub. Place this underneath your deck for privacy and to shield you from the sun’s rays. While we’re at it, a koi pond or fountain will make a nice addition to your backyard oasis.
Bi-level Bliss
Do you have a deck that’s one level and want to spruce it up? Or perhaps you’re in a rambler-style home and can’t build a tall (two-story) deck. That would look a little weird! A thoughtful solution awaits – add a raised platform to your deck. You could go one or two steps above so your deck will have some variety in the way of space, giving it a little height. Incorporating a pergola is another idea. Next, you could divide it so you have a lounging and seating spot on one side, while a play place adorns another. This idea of varying platform heights works well with floating decks.
Landscaping Goes a Long Way
A few well-placed planters can embellish existing decks. If you want something more permanent, consider planting hedges around your deck. Another type of garden has gained more popularity over the past decade. They’re called living walls. What’s this? An apt description would be a vertical garden. They’re sustainable, beautiful, and can actually be a noise barrier. And yes, they’re great for privacy and oxygenating the air.
As for a new deck build, you have the perfect place in your yard, but there’s a tree right in the way. It’s not a problem; simply build your deck around the tree! The tree will provide shade in the summer months, and it will be a lot less work and expense than taking it down. Best yet, you’re saving a tree while giving a creative and beautiful look to your deck and yard. Use the tree to partition the deck off and build those raised platforms.
Haut Hospitality
Multi-level decks are great for the family because of different members participating in various activities, and they’re also ideal for having company over. Design separate parts of the deck and yard for play, game-watching, or conversation. What about eating?
Our favorite part: set up a spot for a table (or two) for your guests to congregate and eat. Depending on how much space you have, you could install an outdoor kitchen. This makes serving food to your guests a breeze. Install a refrigerator so you’ve got a cold beverage within reach. If you want to opt for something lower key, a firepit off to the side is a wonderful way to enjoy socializing and s’mores-making.
Illuminating Ideas
We’ve seen stunning decks – both multi-level and one-level- that are functional and attractive and increase the home’s value. One aspect to consider is the lighting. Good deck (and backyard patio) lighting is essential for a few reasons. Number one is safety. You don’t want to be banging your knees and even falling over outside. The second reason is security. Not only will a well-lit backyard discourage burglars, but it will usually keep wildlife at bay.
Lastly, dramatic lighting will highlight your deck design. It can be planned with the shape, height, and curvature of your deck and patio. You will have your deck and garden path illuminated, and your added lights will improve your deck and surrounding outdoor areas.
