Want to take your deck up a notch? Unlike decks of the past, today’s composite boards are designed to last, so your deck is an investment that you will enjoy for years without all the maintenance of wood. So why settle for an ordinary deck when you can easily add a few simple design features that will make it visually stunning, more practical, and one-of-a-kind? We build lots of decks and we’ve seen some amazing designs. Here are 5 deck features for that “deckorator” look. Some don’t even add much to the cost of the project. See which ones you like best.
Color Me Happy
The monotone look of ordinary wood decks is boring and outdated considering all of the choices we have today. Besides strength and durability, color is one of the best advantages of composite decking. We carry composite decking from many manufacturers and each offers a variety of collections. Take advantage of that and choose two or more complementary hues for your design. You’ll find planks in everything from charcoal to soft gray, light to dark browns, rich reds, and even warm yellows. Create a border with a darker tone, define separate areas by color, create a design, mix and match colors to create a deck like no other.
Change Directions
Sometimes, simply changing the direction of the planks is enough to elevate your deck design to a new level. Laying the planks diagonally creates unexpected eye-catching interest. Adding borders gives decks a more sophisticated feel. Unique shapes create visual interest as well. So we encourage people to think outside the box. Instead of a typical square or rectangle deck, choose a hexagonal shape. We’ve even seen people combine the design with color options creating unique and unexpected patterns. For instance, a hexagonal shaped deck with alternating colors in the concentric rings looks amazing. The design possibilities are endless. Your deck doesn’t have to look ordinary.
Make the Most of Your Space with Built-Ins
Incorporating items into the design can save space, make your deck more inviting, and make your life easier. Seating is one of the most practical features to include. You never have to worry about having enough seats when they’re always available. Seating can also double as storage space if designed that way. Tuck cushions, bug spray, sunscreen, charcoal, etc. under the seats for easy access. Planters are also a great feature to include in your design.
Planters are perfect for adding a pop of color, mosquito-repelling plants, or even a vegetable garden. If you live near your neighbors, creating a buffer is a priority for most suburban homeowners. Add a planter/privacy screen with lattice work and climbing plants. You can also incorporate hanging planters.
If your deck is near the ground, you can even install deck drawers which look great and offer another convenient storage option.
Pergolas Are Popular
Pergolas are one of our absolute favorite additions. We build lots of pergolas around the KC area. They are great for providing shade on hot sunny days. You can easily add fabric panels or curtains for privacy and shade. From a design standpoint, they bring a little more sophistication to your deck. Pop a rug, a sofa and a table under it and you’ve got an outdoor living room. We build everything from fully roofed structures to beautiful lanais and pergolas. Pergolas are much more affordable than a room addition and serve the same purpose three seasons out of four. They are the perfect way to turn your deck into an extension of your home.
Built-in Bar or Outdoor Kitchen
Outdoor bars and kitchens are very popular design upgrades. It’s no surprise as both add a whole new social element to the space. Outdoor parties are all the more fun when you can join your guests instead of being stuck in the kitchen inside. Built-in bars make it easy to keep the party going all day or all night with everything you need at your fingertips. And talk about choices. From stone and stainless steel to tropical and tiki, you can make your bar or kitchen fit your favorite style easily.
Build a Deck with that “Deckorator” Look
People expect a lot more out of their decks than they did just a decade or two ago. They look at them as an extension of their home – a living room, a kitchen, a bar. Luckily, today’s decking materials and design choices make it easy to achieve those goals. If you’re planning to build a deck, and want to incorporate any of these 5 deck features for that “deckorator” look, give us a call. We want to make sure you get the very most from your investment. Plus, we offer easy financing so you can build the deck of your dreams and enjoy it while you pay for it.
Kansas City’s Custom Deck Builders
As you can see, the sky’s the limit when it comes to customizing your deck. At Creative Concepts and Design, if you can imagine it, we can help you design it and build it. We’d love to hear your deck ideas – the more creative, the better! We’ve been building custom decks in Kansas City for years
At Creative Concepts and Design, if you can imagine it, we can help you design it. Let us show you all of your options. You’ll be amazed. We’d love to hear your deck ideas – the more creative, the better! Call us at (816) 301-0275 or contact us online. You can even schedule a deck design meeting and get a free quote. We’d love to bring your backyard dreams to life!