Adding a deck onto your home doesn't mean you have to conform to a rectangular platform hanging off the backside of your home. Today, modern decking designs include an endless variety of shapes, materials, and aesthetics that add to your home's overall curb appeal. 

If you're considering adding more functionality and usable space to your home, the following deck options are sure to inspire. 

6 Deck Ideas to Transform Your Home

If you've been perusing popular home and garden magazines for deck ideas, you probably realize that you can do more than create a transition from indoors to out. If you want to create a connection to your backyard or install a multi-level addition that offers different features, there is a design perfect for your needs.

Before sitting down with a contractor to plan your new deck, below are some of the most popular trending designs: 

Multilevel Designs

If you're a homeowner that loves to throw regular get-togethers, a multilevel deck is a great way to host these fun events. Imagine how much easier it would be to have your grill and bar area on a lower level nearest your kitchen. A second level could be a living room space for table games, movies, and gift sharing during special holidays. Some homes even feature a third level where features like a jacuzzi, sauna, or firepit are kept.  

These designs usually require a larger yard space, and a professional custom deck builder but building up means increased living space that is accessible via outdoor stairs and patio doorways.

Custom Curves

Decks are platforms, but this doesn't mean they have to be square or rectangular. If you want to break away from this typical hard-edged and straight-lined look, create a layout that features curved edging. While this style is often used for decks featuring pools or hot tubs, you could easily adapt this to showcase a fountain or fire pit area. 

Patio-Deck Hybrid

This design is extremely popular for homeowners that want to either extend their back patio or connect it to other home floors. You'll love the transition from the deck down to the welcoming greenery of your backyard and patio's recreational space. Additionally, this deck style doesn't have to be a multi-level structure and can simply extend functional patio space. Either way, this expansion will offer a beautiful outdoor solution for relaxation, dining, and hosting.

Floating Decks

If you're wanting an elegant solution to a ground-level deck design, consider one that floats. This design sits a few inches over the surface instead of directly on the ground. You'll be surprised by how nice this looks and the better view it gives of your property's landscape. Plus, you can add an awning or pergola to provide shade on overly sunny days.

Tropical Aesthetic

The pandemic created a demand for home-based retreats, and this trend has continued. More and more families use their decks to check out from everyday demands and enjoy a relaxed but sophisticated environment to decompress and relax. Tropically-inspired decks feature exotic woods, vibrant color palettes, and themed decor and accessories to transport your mind to faraway places like Morocco or Borneo.  

Pool Decks

If you're tired of cleaning tracked-in dirt, mud, and grass after a swim in your backyard pool, consider installing a deck around it. These designs typically include additional lounge areas and, if part of a multi-level layout, can provide easier access to the home's bathroom to avoid wet footprints through your entire living space. By having a higher level area for congregating, you won't have to worry about cannonballs drenching guests wanting to remain dry. 

Viewing Decks

You chose your current home because you loved the back or front yard view. Imagine how much more you'll enjoy looking across your property from a balcony area you can relax on. Viewing decks can be a single or multi-level framing system depending on your yard and the functionality you want to create. 

Covered Decks

If you want an enclosed deck, you're not alone. These designs are convenient because the weather won't limit their use, and you'll stay comfortable. 

There are several degrees of shelter you can put on a covered deck, including:

• Roof extension
• Pavilion or gazebo
• Shade sails
• Awning
• Pergola 

On top of added comfort, sheltered decks tend to last longer because exposure to damaging moisture and rain is better managed. You'll also be able to create an entire living space within it, depending on the type of enclosure you choose. 

Takeaway

Choosing what type of deck to install requires careful consideration of how you plan to use it and what aesthetic you're trying to accomplish. The styles shared in this article are just a few of the many amazing options available to expand your home's living space and increase functionality. 

Just make sure you work with a reputable deck builder that has experience in constructing a variety of deck designs. Their quality workmanship will ensure you enjoy every moment of your new space for years to come.