High Deck Ideas

Your deck may be sky high but you could be short of ideas on how to dress it. Or perhaps you aren’t sure about building a deck because your house is elevated and you don’t know how it’ll look. 

A raised deck can give you the most wonderful views, especially if you are lucky to have a home nestled next to a beauty spot. 

Even if you overlook only your own gorgeous backyard, you can create a comfortable space to sit and enjoy some al fresco dining or a drink while watching the sun go down. What could be more appealing? So read on for some high deck inspiration.

Woodland Hideaway

For a treetop abode, you can build a deck out from the second floor to feel like you’re really living up in the forest.

The natural go to material for a forest deck is wood. For one, lumber will be in plentiful supply locally! And it’s a construction sympathetic to the environment. 

You can even create raised areas within your deck for interest and arrange your seating for the best vantage point. A cedar stain will be the most traditional finish.

Coastal Calm

If you have a home by the sea then anything you do will only improve the treasure you have. A raised deck by the side of your beach house will be the perfect spot to sit and watch the waves.

A conventional beachcomber deck is what is needed here. So think pale, silvery wood or a painted white deck. You can create the steps up to the deck from wood also. Now all you have to do is lie back on a sunbed and enjoy!

Lakeside Perch

For those who have a lakeside home, you might want to build a balcony with a deck directly over the water. What a lovely place for relaxing.

This will give you some breathtaking views and will be utter wow for your guests. Constructed from a warm wood, you can ensure your safety by adding tall wood railings to enclose your enviable outlook.

It’s All So Black and White

For a more modest backyard deck, you can raise the stakes in a beautiful black and white construction. For a clapboard or shiplap house, you will want to continue this design onto the deck.

The exterior of the deck when painted white will look fabulous against a natural wood surface for deck and steps. To inject contemporary design into this traditional look, opt for a black metal railing. Splendid for a barbeque or to sit and survey your backyard.

Big Deck Ideas

You know what a big house needs? A great big high deck. If your home is plentiful in dimensions then complement it with a large raised deck.

You can wrap around the back and side of the house and even mix your materials. When you have the space, you can build planters from wood and fill with an abundance of plants and flowers to soften your outdoor look.

Composite High Deck

If you like the look of wood but worry about the upkeep – sanding back and painting or staining every few years – then this could be a solution for you.

A composite plank can be used to make your deck. You’ll have all the look of wood but it will last for many more years, is sturdy and easy to maintain.

Take a look at some of the pillar designs which look lovely when you use the ground floor of your deck as a pergola. A great spot to sit in the shade in hot weather.

Pretty White High Deck

Against a white wood house, or pale stone or brick, a white wood deck reflects the sunshine and looks so crisp and fresh. 

You can decorate with items you love, perhaps rope or cane accessories. A tall, leafy plant will create an exotic look. And how about some candle votives on each step. What a lovely idea when you’re out in the evening, for a soft, romantic glow.

Beautiful Modern Black Deck

If you already have a deck that’s in need of a spruce up, perhaps you also want to update the surface as well.

Even if you have a peeling stain, you can stain over the existing covering and freshen up your outdoor deck. Black is sleek and sophisticated and will work well for those of you who favor a minimal decor scheme.

Railings Around Your Deck

For a high deck, particularly one up in the trees, you’ll want to ensure yours and your family’s and visitors’ safety.

A particularly strong, reassuring material for your railings is metal. Not only does it look wonderful with a wood deck, a black metal railing is traditional and elegant.

High Deck Planting

If you have a high stepped deck, you can make the most of your levels by being creative with your planting.

Vary the heights of the plants you choose. You may have a tall tree planted in the ground and your other plants can be at waist height and lower. 

Integrate wood planters which contain lush foliage with terracotta pots with flowers. Keep your plants well tended and well watered and you’ll have a deck to die for. 

Lighting Up Your High Deck

If you know you’ll use your deck a lot at night, then you need some good lighting. Have you thought of installing lights under your stairs? You can put a light under each of the stair treads for a cute, modern look. And how about some under the hand railing also.

Solar powered lights are a great option for your backyard and deck as you’ll find they are easily charged. And you can feel good about the environment. 

In Summary

A high deck is a beautiful addition to your home, whether you’re looking out at your own landscaped backyard, or you are perched in the woods, by a lake or next to the ocean.

Look at the material your house is constructed from and either continue that or complement the finish. Wood is a traditional look but composite will give you the aesthetic without the hassle.

For a more striking look, go for black and white or perhaps a metal railing. And make sure you choose your planting to enhance your deck. And add lighting to your stairs to make the most of your own high deck.