Your backyard is an extension of your home. Your deck is a place for gathering, entertaining, sunbathing, and making memories.

When it comes to backyard deck designs, if you’re in need of some updating, we’ve rounded up some of the best deck ideas to help make yours a showstopper.

This guide has deck ideas and deck designs that you’ll be happy to dine alfresco on, watch your kids play on, and invite family and friends over to enjoy.

Backyard Deck Designs: Where to Start

When you’re starting out with your deck overhaul, you’ll first want to think about how you are hoping to use your new and improved deck. Picture what your deck will be used for the most.

Some people, use their deck for entertaining, other people cozy up to a fire, while others relax with a good book. How you use your deck will determine what materials it should be made of, the size, the layout, and the budget.

In terms of materials, some of the most popular material choices include wood such as Ipe decking and siding, which is a beautiful tropical wood, cedar, mahogany, or composites.

Layout some design ideas and start pricing your materials. You should then set your budget and start looking for design inspiration.

On the Water

If your deck is located off of a pool, hot tub, or body of water, you’ll want to plan your deck so that the water is in full view. Add seating around a pool, and make sure there is plenty of room for lounging soaking up the sun or taking in a view.

Entertaining

Decks are great places for entertaining. If this is the primary use for your deck, make sure you have ample space for seating, dining, cooking, and prep.

You can build in grills, coolers, and spaces for serving. Your deck will be an amazing place to entertain friends and family for years to come.

Bankrate describes wood decks like outdoor living rooms that can add square footage to your home.

Romantic Dinners

If you and your loved ones like to sit outside at night and enjoy a quiet or romantic dinner, your deck is a wonderful place to do this. You can sit under the stars and enjoy a dinner outside.

To add a little drama, privacy, or romance, you can use outdoor drapes and twinkle lights on your deck to set the mood.

Kid-Friendly

If your home has a few little ones running around, you’ll probably want your deck to be as safe, and kid-friendly as possible.

A kid-friendly deck can feature wide stairs to enter the yard, a fun slide or diving board to jump into the lake or pool. You can even build a special sandbox or kid table built right in.

You can also use the bottom of your deck to make a little playhouse or a climbing wall in the otherwise unused area under your deck.

Outdoor Deck Ideas That Speak to You

Your deck should be a place you and your family can’t wait to hang out on. Whether you’re drying off from a dip in the pool or having a BBQ with friends, backyard deck designs should be an extension of you.

For more great home remodeling tips, check out the rest of our website for décor ideas and inspiration.