One of the best feelings in the world is throwing open the patio doors at the end of a long day and reclining out on the deck. Just having the outdoor space with some chairs to sit on is enough to transport you into another world — but why stop there? You can fine-tune your deck design so you and your loved ones get the absolute most out of it. Read on to find out how to transform an ordinary deck into a backyard paradise in a few simple steps.
Incorporate These 10 Relaxing Deck Ideas Into Your Outdoor Design
A deck looks gorgeous as part of the hardscaping design, but you can take it to the next level with these 10 relaxing backyard ideas:
1. Designate the Space
One of the best ways to design a deck is to create distinct areas, each with its own vibe and decor. Use screens, steps or planters to separate the zones and include a dining area, a private seating area surrounded by foliage and an area for socializing.
There are a couple of relaxation benefits to having clearly defined areas in your yard. First, if anyone comes outside and you’re in the private hammock, it’s like there’s an invisible Do Not Disturb sign hanging over your head. Secondly, it’s pleasant to have defined areas, just like indoors.
The idea of eating in your bedroom or doing work in the bathroom is strange. You’ll find it easier to get into a relaxed headspace if you’ve designated and decorated a specific zone for unwinding in the yard.
2. Make Sure There Are Shady Spots
In the sweltering heat of summer, going outdoors might seem like a chore if you don’t have enough shady spots out there. Another great way to separate the outdoor space is by adding a pergola, beach hut or even just simple umbrellas.
If you opt for the latter, your yard will seem like a pretty hotel resort. With a more permanent structure, it’ll feel like you go on vacation every time you step into the backyard! Shade, comfort and privacy make beach huts and covered pergolas an absolute dream.
3. Don’t Forget a Water Feature
Just picture it in your mind: You’re reclining in a cozy hammock, surrounded by lush greenery and the gentle sound of water soothing you in the background. No backyard paradise is complete without a water feature of some kind. You can get a solar-powered fountain with minimal environmental impact for the ultimate chill space.
If you’re planning a full transformation, you can even get a pool, cocktail pool or hot tub installed in the deck. There’s no better way to cool off in the summer and stay in great shape than having some water to dip into whenever you fancy.
4. Include Lots of Planters, Hanging Baskets and Fragrant Flowers
Wildlife, vegetation, plants — whatever you want to call them, they are incredibly good for our overall well-being. On the most basic level, they’re breathing in CO2 that we breathe out, which is a huge benefit to mood, productivity and concentration. However, on a more general level, it just feels great to be surrounded by beautiful living things. Add a herb garden and fragrant flowers to add the dimension of scent into your backyard relaxation experience.
5. Set the Mood With Ambient Adjustable Lighting
Lighting can also have a huge impact on well-being and mood. Transition lighting throughout the day according to the light levels that are needed and reap the benefits. Add hidden soft lighting panels to steps and walls for a truly sophisticated look that also helps you find your way around in the dark.
6. Make an Outdoor Living Room
If you don’t want to go all out and create lots of different zones, you could design one big backyard living room instead. Keep things simple and easy and make sure to follow building codes. One of the biggest trends this year is bringing the outdoors in and taking the indoors outside. If you put as much time and resources into designing your decking décor as you do the living room, you’ll make it a luxurious haven for relaxation.
7. Build a Fire Pit
As the evening draws on and you start to detect a chill, your relaxation levels can suddenly turn into mild discomfort. If you build a fire pit with seating around it or nearby, you can get the fire going as soon as night falls. Fire is mesmerizing and warm, so it’s a double whammy of unwinding.
8. Create a Living Wall
If plants are your thing, create a living wall but make sure you’re not compromising the structural integrity of your deck. Wall transforms any space, whether you have a tiny apartment garden or a huge backyard. Walls are possibly one of the least natural things in the world, so adding flowers, climbers or planters to them makes all the difference. When we’re surrounded by nature, it’s much easier to switch off from our responsibilities and unwind.
9. You Can Never Have Enough Cushions
A very simple way to make your deck more relaxing is to include lots of cushions. Low seating options make for a chilled vibe, and plump, lovely cushions just invite you to flop down and forget about your troubles.
10. Add a Hammock for Each Family Member
Hammocks are perhaps the symbol of relaxation itself. Be careful, though — if you hang just one or two and you’re a family of four, you’re at risk. The whole idea of including hammocks is to chill out, but it’s defeating that purpose if you’re all fighting over who gets to use them first! Get one for each family member and just watch the relaxation flow.
Get a Quote for a Brand-New Deck Today
Installing a custom deck is simpler than you might think, and the opportunities for relaxation are endless. If you’re ready to turn your backyard into an oasis of tranquility, call Prince William Home Improvement today at 800-799-7944 for a quote.
