Our Best Deck Decorating Ideas

Add a Pergola

Backyard deck covered by pergola — RichLegg / GETTY IMAGES

Adding a pergola above your deck space is a great way to introduce a barrier that can make spending time outside more enjoyable, says Rosario Mannino, principal architect of RS Mannino Architecture & Design Build. Sheer curtains will provide both privacy and prevent annoying pests like bugs and mosquitoes from crashing your garden party. What's more, these features will provide shade over a portion or all of your deck, which might make getting outside a little easier during the heat of summer.

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Use Natural Materials

Wooden table on outdoor deck — photovideostock / GETTY IMAGES

When adding any new features to your deck space (like built-in storage boxes or seating), try avoiding man-made materials. "Natural stones and rot-resistant wood like Ipe and Cedar are much more timeless and will age beautifully," says Mannino.

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Set Up a Dining Area

Backyard deck with dining table — TimAbramowitz / GETTY IMAGES

If you love entertaining al fresco, few places are better suited to this style of dining than your deck. "By adding a well-designed dinner table and comfortable chairs to your deck, you instantly transform the space into a cozy and inviting outdoor dining area," says Kerrie Kelly, creative director of Kerrie Kelly Design Lab. "This not only expands your entertaining options, but also creates an ideal setting for memorable gatherings, allowing you to fully enjoy meals while basking in the beauty of nature."

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Decorate With Outdoor Rugs

Outdoor rugs and furniture on deck — KatarzynaBialasiewicz / GETTY IMAGES

If you're looking for a quick and easy way to make your outdoor space feel like an extension of your home, an outdoor rug may be just what you need. They'll add texture and character to your deck, but they can also help separate an outdoor living space from your grilling and dining area, says Liz Walton, interior designer and owner of design studio Liz Walton Home. Just make sure the rug you choose is rated for outdoor use, otherwise it could fall apart or become moldy after a few rainy days.

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Create a Reading Nook

Reading nook in outside deck area — KatarzynaBialasiewicz / GETTY IMAGES

Your deck should be a place you enjoy spending time when the weather is nice—and one way to do so is by creating a reading nook. "To create this cozy retreat, start by selecting a comfortable lounge chair or a hammock, adorned with plush cushions and throws," says Kelly. "Enhance the ambience by incorporating a small side table to hold your favorite reading materials, along with a soft outdoor rug and a few potted plants to infuse the area with greenery and tranquility."

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Hang Bird Feeders

Bird Feeder in backyard — Lightguard / GETTY IMAGES

One beautiful part of being outdoors is that you get to enjoy nature, which you can experience more of by welcoming wildlife into your yard. Birds will flock onto or near your deck when there's a well-stocked bird feeder situated nearby. "Bird feeders are a fun way to interact with nature and discover different species of birds native to your region," says Walton. Check with local birding groups to see which birds are native to your area and choose a feed and feeder that will meet their needs.

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Create Privacy

Tall plants and grasses for outdoor privacy — Scharfsinn86 / GETTY IMAGES

If you avoid hanging out on your deck because it feels too exposed, there are ways to add privacy to your space. "To enhance privacy on your deck, consider incorporating stylish solutions, such as outdoor curtains or bamboo blinds, that can be easily installed to create a sense of seclusion," says Kelly. "Another option is to strategically position tall potted plants to block unwanted views while adding a touch of natural beauty to your outdoor space."

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Add Raised Beds

Raised herb garden in backyard — TG23 / GETTY IMAGES

Whether you have a sprawling backyard or your outdoor space is limited to your deck, adding raised beds of flowers, greenery, and vegetables will help beautify your landscape. "A garden is a great and satisfying way to get the whole family involved in an outdoor environment," says Walton. "There's nothing more satisfying than reaping what you sow, and it is the epitome of a clean and healthy lifestyle."

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Add an Umbrella

Outdoor Umbrella shading table on deck — mtreasure / GETTY IMAGES

Decks can get hot quickly during summer if you don't have added shade. "To create shade on your deck, opt for a stylish umbrella or canopy that can be easily adjusted to shield you from the sun's rays," says Kelly. Choose one that matches your other design details, like outdoor rug and other furnishings for a cohesive look.

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Bring in Bird Baths

Flowers surrounding bird bath — Tammi Mild / GETTY IMAGES

Just like a bird feeder, a bird bath can be an excellent way to bring local wildlife to your backyard area. "When placed in a garden, bird baths help keep insects away and birds will help aerate the soil and clean up dead plant material," Walton says. Add one to the garden area just outside your deck or find a tabletop version to bring the birds even closer to you.

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Add Up Lighting

Outdoor plant lighting — Bespalyi / GETTY IMAGES

If you have plants on your deck, one way to accent them during nighttime is with up lighting. "To enhance the ambience of your deck, incorporate task or accent lighting by strategically placing up lights near potted plants, casting a gentle glow that highlights their beauty," says Kelly.

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Add a Hammock

Hammock on outside deck — Andrey Rykov / GETTY IMAGES

Outdoor lounge furniture is great, but there's nothing like lounging in a hammock, says Walton. You can purchase one that hangs from your deck's existing support structures or select one that comes with a stand that you can move around.

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Purchase Personalized Cornhole Sets

purple cornhole board in backyard grass — valbunny / GETTY IMAGES

Is your deck large enough for activities? Buy some games you and your family will love to do together. Personalized cornhole sets are a fun option—the game is compact enough that it can be put away when it's not in use (freeing up that valuable entertaining real estate). Plus, it's low impact enough that you don't have to worry about disrupting the rest of your furniture while you play. "This classic backyard game transcends time and is a great way to spark a little friendly competition," says Walton.

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Layer Throw Pillows

patterned outdoor patio furniture — Joe Schmelzer

There's a large selection of outdoor cushions available, so don't feel like you have to settle for whatever came with your patio set. Upgrade your cushions or add decorative throw pillows to make your outdoor seating areas] as comfortable as possible. The more enjoyable it is to unwind on your deck, the more often you will choose to do so.

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Incorporate a Porch Swing

white porch swing — krblokhin / GETTY IMAGES

If you have a covered backyard deck, you may want to consider adding a swing. "An outdoor swing ups the entertainment value and is a calming and restful respite from what's happening indoors," says Walton. If your deck isn't covered or lacks rafters strong enough to support an outdoor swing, consider adding one on a stand.

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Build an Outdoor Kitchen

outdoor stainless steel kitchen — piovesempre / GETTY IMAGES

If you're ready to make a major upgrade to your deck, an outdoor kitchen is the one to consider. "Outdoor kitchens are a great way to enjoy good food, and relish in the beauty of the outdoors," Walton says. A grill, a mini fridge, and a sink, as well as a little counter space, will make a huge difference in your ability to cook and eat outdoors.

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Invest in Heat Lamps

Outdoor heat lamp — Bibica / GETTY IMAGES

Don't give up on your deck the moment the weather changes. Instead, find a secondary heat source to keep your outdoor space operational after summer ends. Heat lamps have become very popular in colder climates recently because they make it possible to enjoy your outdoor space year round, Walton says.

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Create a Cozy Firepit Area

Backyard deck firepit — Jon Lovette / GETTY IMAGES

Firepits can be used year-round in any climate and they are a nice way to unwind after a long day. "Firepits come in a variety of types that can scale to any size outdoor space, budget, and functionality, from a smaller, portable bonfire to a built-in, freestanding natural gas fire table," says Brooke Lang, design principal with Brooke Lang Design. Be sure to look for a deck-safe pick.

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Layer Your Lighting

home patio furniture pendant lights — Serena & Lily

Think about what vibe you want to set in your backyard—that will determine the types of lighting you use. String lights are always a nice option for a deck, but they're far from your only choice. Plus, layering your lighting will give you a more complex, inviting ambience. "If you don't have the overhead space to hang lights, no problem: I love using classic tea lights for the table, surrounded by vintage lanterns," says Lang. "To take it a step further, also think about how you want to light walkways, patios, or your garden." The final look should be cohesive.

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Set Up an Outdoor Bar Cart

An outdoor bar cart just makes life easier, which is why it's the perfect addition to your deck. "You'll need a place to serve drinks, food, or store outdoor items such as blankets, bug spray, and extra planting supplies," says Lang. "Pro-tip: Repurpose an old console by bringing it outside and apply a coat or two of waterproof or exterior paint or stain."

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Choose Floors With a Pattern

Wood Tile for outdoor floors — ymgerman / GETTY IMAGES

If you're building a deck from scratch, think carefully about the design. "For a more temporary option, I love the puzzle-piece outdoor tile floors," says Lang. "They're affordable, easy to install and come in all types of patterns and colors." But if you're working with an existing deck, don't worry. You can use a stencil to add texture to your existing deck, Lang says.

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Plant Container Gardens

You may have a gorgeous garden just beyond your deck, but you don't want to forget about adding lush, living details to this space. "If you have a balcony in an urban city, use hanging pots and fill it with seasonal flowers and plants," says Lang. "You can also start an herb garden, which will double as decoration and a fun way to bring fresh herbs into your meals at home."

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