Outdoor Deck Ideas for Summer Living

Now is the time to start thinking about your open-air living areas and how to spruce them up for summer living. Today I’m featuring a variety of outdoor deck ideas to get your creative juices flowing. If you plan now, you’ll be able to fully enjoy your outdoor living spaces when warm weather fully kicks in. (This post contains affiliate links.)

If you have the typical suburban home in a tract neighborhood, your deck is probably similar to the one above. And it’s likely you have a dining set with a colorful umbrella for outdoor meals. But note the use of lighting on each stair riser. We recently added solar lights to the edges of our deck. There are so many styles from which to choose these days.

I love the simplicity of the deck below. It’s level with the ground so there’s no danger of tripping and no railing to walk around. The wicker chairs are so pretty, with blankets at each one for cooler nights. And of course, the view is amazing with total privacy.

 

Here’s smart solution for more elegant outdoor furniture. You can help protect it from the elements with a pergola style roof. With all the trees surrounding this cozy space, the sap is sure to stain the upholstery. A roofed deck also lets you enjoy the outdoors even when a gentle rain is falling.

 

Perhaps the best deck is one that overlooks the ocean with steps to the beach.

 

Or maybe you prefer a fancy deck with both a fireplace and a view of the surrounding mountains.

 

Of course, you could enjoy a not-so-fancy deck with a mountain view if simplicity is more your style (and budget).

 

A deck overlooking a lake is a nice option too. Add an Adirondack settee with geranium-filled whiskey barrel planters for pretty yet simple look. This deck reminds me of our yurt vacation where we sat on the deck by the lake covered in lily pads. It was such a peaceful place.

 

Speaking of Adirondack chairs, they’re one of my favorite pieces of outdoor furniture. Something about the way they lean backwards make them so comfortable – even without any upholstery.

 

A fire pit is almost a must-have for an outdoor deck. Not only does it provide warmth and light in the evenings, but the flames can help keep mosquitoes away. It’s also the perfect focal point for a conversation grouping of furniture.

 

My deck overlooks our koi pond and it currently has Adirondack chairs on it. I’m searching for some type of patio umbrella or shade covering that will eliminate the heat of the sun in the middle of the afternoon. What changes or sprucing-up plans do you have for your outdoor living space?

 

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