Garden decks are great for al-fresco dining, outdoor entertainment, or simple relaxation outside your home. However, one of the best advantages of decking is that they can transform any boring garden and create a whole new space for you to enjoy the summer breeze. They’re also great for people who hate getting dirt under their nails or simply do not have as much time to dedicate to their plants, both of which are gardening challenges identified in a previous Cityscape Bliss post.
Fortunately, there is a myriad of different decking options that can suit a variety of lifestyles and budgets. So whether you’re lucky enough to have tons of space outside your home to add a deck into, or are looking to spruce up a small outdoor flowerbed or even a rooftop garden, here are some exciting decking ideas that won’t burn a hole in your pocket.
Spiral deck in a city garden
Who says you need to stick to squares and rectangles? This English garden square house in West London features bricks laid out in a circular pattern to achieve a uniquely picturesque look to a small outdoor dining space. The black wrought iron seating complements the lines of the space, with moss softening the grout underfoot. If you’re deciding on what your deck will look like, have fun and create imaginative patterns for your deck flooring.
Matchboard planks
This all-weather area in London was also featured in House and Garden Magazine, and it makes use of matchboard planks that create flow up to the bench along the wall. Don’t be afraid to use mismatched furniture and funky colours, too!
Layered deck
The great thing about decks is that building them yourselves can yield uniquely interesting results while having fun and without breaking the bank. In this home, different wood layers merge into an unusual and visually intriguing deck, a look that you can achieve with some wood and creativity without depleting all of your savings. Screwfix features a number of wood decking packs and kits that make use of different materials, showing the versatility of such items while proving to be great value for money. Just make sure to carefully plan out your space first, and use a slip-resistant finish to withstand the often-damp British weather.
Garden path
If you’re building a much bigger space, consider creating a raised garden path with interconnected wooden decks throughout your backyard, like in this garden deck featured on Forbes Magazine. Wider platforms can be used for seating areas, while narrower pathways can wind through flower beds and trees to encourage people to explore your garden.
Sun-blocking pergolas
Another interesting feature of decks is that you don’t necessarily need to build a roof or install awnings to shield the seating areas from the summer sun. This deck makes beautiful work of a full-width pergola. This Old House shows how the pergola adds a whole new architectural dimension to your garden while providing support for climbers and vines, as well as creating a built-in shade for you and your guests.
Salvaged church windows
If you’re one for thrift-shopping and collected homes, this delightfully designed deck combines a lush garden with romantic transitions using salvaged church windows. The statement budget décor brings in a ton of charm and character, especially in combination with the potted plants and understated, laid-back colours of the chairs and tables. In this way, the deck makes relaxation and entertaining as comfortable and as personalised outside as they are inside the home.
Did you like these bargain deck ideas, or have any of yours to share? Let me know in the comments below!