Decks that lack privacy, shade, and personality aren’t ideal for outdoor living and entertaining.
These before-and-after deck makeovers showcase how to transform a lackluster space into a charming outdoor living area.
Before: Colorful Outdoor Oasis
Basic outdoor furniture did little to dress up this deck.
Credit: Jason Donnelly
Colorful accessories and potted plants bring lively personalityto this outdoor entertaining hub.
The built-in bench was too shallow for comfort, and the wide expanse received virtually no shade.
The homeownersrefinished the deckand added to the existing structure for a major boost in style and function.
The deck dining area before.Credit: Courtesy of Jennifer Berno Decleene
After: Suburban Deck Renovation
A louveredpergola extends out from the houseto shade the revamped deck.
Cedar 14s cover a portion of the siding for a stylish accent that helps define the seating area.
Redecorating with stylish and functional furnishingsgave this deck a new lookwithout changing its footprint.
Credit: Nathan Kirkman
A bench provides flexible seating so additional guests can squeeze in.
Planted containers anda hanging egg chairwith pillows contribute to the cozy feel.
And without nearbytrees to offer shade, the deck was just too hot.
Credit: Courtesy of Home Owner
Hanging baskets and containers introduce greenery that ties inwith the deck’s color scheme.
The narrow deck was salvageable, but the rest had to go.
Removing the pool made way for lush landscaping around the deck.
Credit: Courtesy of Home Owner
The zingy, bright shades of groundcover contrast beautifully with the rich greens of large plants.
The deck now connects a bluestone hardscape that weaves through the yard.
The existing table and chairs made the space feel bland and unexciting.
Credit: Edmund Barr
Selecting a new color scheme prompted a makeover that makes the most of this unique deck space.
Before: Modern Deck Redesign
This ordinary builder’s deck created usable space but no style.
The basic rectangular shape and lack of structure made it unappealing for outdoor living.
The homeownersadded a sweeping perimeter curveand metal accents totransform the deck into a backyard haven.
Before: Outdoor Escape
This deck had a nice structure, but it needed more personality.
A coordinating settee offers another spot to lounge near the hot tub.
Credit: Peter Krumhardt
Aseries of container gardens, including ornamental grasses, flowers, and shrubs, add bright splashes of color.
See how they used lattice panels to complete this deck makeover.
Dramaticred-leaf castor beanshelp fill in the holes in the lattice for more complete privacy.
Credit: Jackie Ruvolo
These homeowners came up with a budget-friendly solution to boost privacy, shade, and style on their deck.
Curtains made of sheer outdoor-friendly fabric soften the look.
Thesebudget-friendly deck ideaslet you quickly transform your outdoor space without a costly remodel.
Credit: Tria Giovan
Previously surrounded by only grass, this deck got a new look thanks to colorful plantings around its edges.
Adding height to the arrangement, theJapanese tree lilacwill provide sweet perfume in early summer.
The homeowners traded the uncomfortable chairs and dated accessories for more comfortable and contemporarydeck decorating ideas.
Credit: Courtesy of the home owner
The new space is much more suited to their current lifestyle.
The stylish alternating pattern means an area rug isn’t necessary.
Outdoor furniture with plush white cushions offers a comfortable spot to relax with a cold drink.
Credit: Kritsada Panichgul
Before: Painted Deck Makeover
This old deck was begging for some help.
Liberal use of outdoor paint helped tie this deck makeover together.
Instead ofrefinishing the surface, the deck was cleaned and painted with a classic rug-like design.
Credit: Courtesy of the home owner
A series of container gardens helps soften the scene.
However, the large space was being mostly underutilized.
It needed a bit of decorating help to give it that vacation-like feel.
Credit: Kritsada Panichgul
When fall frosts come, just pack them back up and move them inside.
Credit: Courtesy of the home owner
Credit: Marty Baldwin
Credit: Courtesy of the home owner
Credit: Marty Baldwin
Credit: Nick Crow
Credit: Marty Baldwin
Credit: Bryan E. McCay
Credit: Bryan E. McCay
Credit: Marty Baldwin
Credit: Marty Baldwin
Credit: Marty Baldwin
Credit: Andy Lyons
Credit: Jay Wilde
Credit: Jay Wilde
