How to Transform Your Garden Deck into a Veritable Work of Art

Published
07/06/2025

Those of us who are lucky enough to have a back deck within our garden are well aware of the benefits that this structure can provide. They can serve as family meeting places, homeowners can soak up the sun on a warm afternoon, and decks provide the ideal solution for those who are planning a house party.

However, what if yours lacks a certain visual appeal? Is your deck as functional as it could be? If you are less than satisfied with its overall appearance, there are many solutions to consider. Let's look at five expert recommendations, and the unique advantages associated with each.



Brighten up the Mood

One excellent way to provide this area with a bespoke sense of depths is to install the latest series of deck lights from In Lite. There are numerous designs to consider, and many of these offer a recessed configuration so that they will boast an understated appeal. Their minimalist designs are likewise suitable for those who wish to embrace a modern style.



Choose the Right Furniture

Deck furniture will have a massive impact on the appearance of the entire area. This furniture can also help to tie nearby elements together; resulting in a visually cohesive effect. Similar to the lighting solutions mentioned previously, it is wise to select furniture that mimics a specific style. Note that some designs can also be stored when not in use; a nice way to clear up additional space during times of inclement weather. Some common materials include wood, PVC, powder-coated metal, and lightweight rattan (an environmentally friendly option).



A Touch of Green

Larger decks will often benefit from the presence of plants. Plants actually serve several purposes in this sense. They are ideal for locations that do not contain a great deal of natural shade. Some plants can likewise serve as privacy barriers if you happen to live within a suburban area. Those with flowers will add a touch of colour to the environment, and the most hearty species do not require a great deal of maintenance. It is wise to perform additional online research to determine which variants are suitable for your location.



Paint or Stain?

While some decks have been constructed from artificial materials, the vast majority are still comprised of wood. Commonly used types of wood include oak, mahogany, pine, and cedar. Most experts recommend coating these surfaces so that they will not succumb to harsh exterior elements. Paint and stain are the two primary choices.

A solid coat of paint is generally recommended if you wish to hide the natural grain of the wood. Exterior oil paints will also help to repel water; preventing issues such as rot. You might instead choose to employ a transparent or semi-transparent stain. As the terms suggest, stains are nice solutions for those who want to add a layer of protection, but still wish to accent the underlying wood patterns.



Create a Focal Point

This final suggestion can also be used within the home. Interior design professionals will frequently recommend outfitting your deck with a centralised focal point. The main intention here is to create a sense of balance. A focal point could be a large dining table, a fire pit, or a set of lounge chairs. As always, feel free to experiment with various options.

Note that all of these suggestions do not require a significant financial commitment, and you will normally not need to worry about any type of planning permission. If your deck is due for a much-needed facelift, there are plenty of options to explore. You will be impressed with what a bit of innovation can provide!