Modern Deck Styles
Choosing a style for your new custom deck can be a fun and exciting process! It can also be a challenging one, with so many styles to consider. Here at Cedarbrook, we’ve compiled a selection of the most popular modern deck styles to assist you with your decision-making process.
One of the first questions you will ask yourself when designing a custom outdoor space will be about the decks overall style. Will owning a platform deck or an elevated deck be best for you? How about a multi-level or wrap-around deck?
Your home’s natural ground slope, landscaping, features, and yard obstructions will be dictating factors for what style options you have for your deck. Your county, municipality, and home-owners association will often have a say in the matter as well! Be sure to work with a Cedarbrook specialist to guide you on your project’s specific situations. We will be able to work through any challenges you may come across in designing the custom outdoor space of your dreams!
Platform
(Decking is Azek’s Arbor Collection: Autumn Chestnut with Custom Bench in Columbia, MD)
Platform decks are usually found on homes with level lots and nearby features that work well with an open look. Some platform decks open to a patio, while others open to a pool or open field. Typically, these decks are less than thirty inches tall to avoid needing a railing system per most county and municipal regulations. With that in mind, consider defining the edges of your platform deck with planter boxes made from the same materials as your deck boards. Or consider a ‘picture frame’ deck board border around your platform deck, so your guests know where the drop off is.
Modern Deck Styles are Elevated
(Decking is Exotic Ipe Wood with White PVC Trim, Pavers are Nicolock, in Damascus, MD)
Elevated decks provide you with a wonderful view of your property and surrounding areas! If your residence has a view, we highly recommend this style of deck! One of the greatest added benefits of an elevated deck is the unique option to double your livable space by finishing the area below the deck. By adding a rainwater diversion system underneath of your deck, you gain useable space under your deck in all weather conditions. Finish off the under-deck area with a finished ceiling, lighting, or even an outdoor-rated TV!
Multi-Level Modern Deck Styles
(Belgard Mega Arbel Pavers with Custom Outdoor Kitchen under multi-level deck, in Union Bridge, MD)
Multi-level decks are great for maximizing space and confronting your building challenges! This style of deck is perfect for entertaining, with naturally attractive and practical appeal. The extra space of a multi-level deck will allow for a much larger and well-defined, dedicated space. Consider installing an outdoor kitchen or dining area! As with an elevated deck, a multi-level deck provides great views of your surroundings and is perfect for built-in seating, storage, or planter boxes with the additional space. This style of deck is a solution to property boundary lines, uneven yard slopes, and other property obstructions you may come across in the design phase of your new outdoor space.
Wrap-Around
(Ipe Deck with Custom Ipe Railing and Screened Porch, in Urbana, MD)
Wrap-Around decks are welcoming and picturesque. Perfect for days spent outdoors, this style of deck is usually chosen for a home with plenty of land and big views! A wrap-around style deck increases your living space dramatically. Follow the sun or shade with a wrap-around deck or open your home’s access doors and let the air flow throughout your home!
Roof Top
(Photo Credit: Azek, Decking is Azek’s Vintage Collection: Mahogany)
When space around your home is limited and your current roof is strong enough to support a deck, going up is a great idea! Popular in cities where space is very limited, roof top decks have been growing in popularity. They offer privacy and expanded views. Keep in mind that a rooftop deck will be exposed to more extreme weather conditions due to the high elevation, such as wind gusts. Be sure to select a decking material which can stand up to the elements, as well as heavy furniture that won’t fly away!
Adding an outdoor living space is a great investment. Most importantly, it will add value to your lifestyle. More than being a great choice, it will become your place to entertain guests and relax at home.
At Cedarbrook, our goal is to understand our clients outdoor living needs and to design and build a space to fit those needs. When you are ready to design and build your new outdoor living space, call Cedarbrook for a free consultation at 301-703-8728.