Back decks are an extension of the home. As an outdoor living space, they can provide a quality of life for busy families. So why do some families rarely use them? Sometimes, it’s because they appear, well, a bit outdated and run down. But with a little help, you can create a small oasis retreat right in your own backyard.
From cozy outdoor seating to decorative sun screens, here are 11 easy ways to update your back deck.
1. Spruce Up Your Space with Plants
Dress up your deck with an abundance of plants in various containers and pots. Pick an eclectic mix of glazed pots and terracotta pots of all shapes and sizes. Plant some garden bulbs that will create brightly-colored blooms, such as daffodils, tulips and hyacinths, to create a dazzling display in the spring. If you love to cook, make a small veggie garden or herb garden as well.
For smaller back decks with limited floor space, add a container over the railing instead. This way, you can make room for more essential items like your tiki bar or chaise lounge. For railing containers, add a vine-like ivy that will drape down elegantly.
2. Go Vertical with Plants and Screens
Add some visual height to your back deck. The easiest way to do so is with tall trees, plants, trellises and screens. For instance, you can add some hanging baskets or install a privacy screen from a drop-down roller shade or a clematis-covered trellis. You can even switch up the flowers and foliage each season. You can add height by adding a tall palm tree or boxwood bushes to a large pot.
3. Add a Potter’s Bench Station
If you’re a plant lover, this one’s for you! Add a potting station where you can keep all your accessories and tools. It’s the perfect prep station for gardeners and novice horticulturists. Choose a potter’s bench station built of a more resilient material such as cedar and make sure it has several drawers, shelves and cabinets to contain all your starter pots, trowels, seed packets and soil. Even if you lack a green thumb, a potter’s bench can double as an outdoor dining buffet hutch, where you can stash your outdoor dinnerware and other items like candles. Use it to serve platters and bowls of food when entertaining.
4. Add a Furniture Seating Set
Another easy way to update your back deck is to add a furniture seating set. Outdoor furniture comes in a variety of styles, too! You can find anything from chat-set style bar height counter stools to relaxing chaise loungers with a shady canopy. The critical step here is to select the seating that works best for your deck space. Also, be sure to find a weather-resistant finish that can stand up to the elements and cushions with a mildew-resistant and colorfast fabric.
5. Create Comfortable Seating
Speaking of cushions, make sure your outside seating is just as inviting as your indoor sofa and chairs. Spruce any seating up with throw pillows and even a blanket for chillier evenings. Again, make sure pillows and cushions are wrapped in an indoor-outdoor fabric. Mix in a variety of patterns and colors to add some punch.
6. Throw Down Some Outdoor Rugs
Outdoor rugs offer a comfortable underfoot and lovely texture when you want to slip off your shoes and walk around in your bare feet. Plus, a spacious outdoor area rug can really ground a seating area and tie everything together. They can also divide different areas. For example, you might choose to have one area rug situated beneath the occasional seating and another beneath the dining area. These days, you can find some stunning outdoor rugs in all shapes and materials. Like your seating, however, make sure to choose something that is all-weather and durable.
7. Incorporate Outdoor Lighting
Lighting can add ambiance and some dramatic flair to your back deck. Proper illumination can also be a safety feature too. But more importantly, lighting will allow you to extend your time outdoors and spend time with family and friends late into the night. Unlike indoor lighting, however, you don’t need the space to be as bright. As a general rule of thumb, it should be just bright enough to mimic that of a full moon. As the sun sets, your eyes know what to do and will adjust.
Add a few sconces to the deck railing and, for some charm, string up some cafe lighting to add a glimmer above. Some LED rope lighting is a fantastic addition to hard-to-see areas like stairs, where you need to add a bit more illumination for safety.
8. Replace the Railing
If your back deck has wood rot or a few loose railings, it’s time to renovate. Replace them with materials similar to that of your architectural hardware and finish. For a more nautical-inspired look, create a barrier of horizontally strung thick rope or cable railing. If you have a gorgeous backyard and want to enjoy the view, consider installing glass panels. Glass panel railing can create a more contemporary look while still offering safety for children, pets and more.
9. Install Screens and Sun Shades
If you have a not-so-great view from your back deck, install a screen or sunshade. Instead of staring at your neighbor’s siding, a decorative trellis or outdoor screen can add a bit of privacy and create a more intimate back deck. If you are lucky enough to have a great view but have a sun-facing back deck, install a sun shade on a roller that can be adjusted.
10. Create Deck Built-ins and Architectural Elements
Create built-ins and architectural elements throughout the back deck. Incorporate them next to the railing, but also along with any steps. Built-ins can be anything from planters to a relaxing hot tub set within the corner. Enhance a back deck with substantial architectural elements as well, such as a pergola that can provide shade, a structure for lighting and allow plants to climb.
11. Add a Splash of Color
Another way you can easily update your back deck is to add a splash of color. Color can be brought in through cushions and umbrellas. However, it can truly make a statement when you paint architectural elements to coordinate with the siding or trim. Add a splash of color for a cohesive home style!
