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Modern home with sliding doors opened on a wooden deck and patio furniture
Photo: Shutterstock/Luis Viegas

Balcony, deck and patio

Beautiful balcony and deck design ideas

Amber VanWort

ByAmber VanWort

Updated on April 17th, 2025

Published on May 31st, 2022

  • Design
  • Tips and advice

The sun is shining, temperatures are rising, and you're flipping through balcony and deck design ideas to pick out this year's look. Before you run out to Walmart or Canadian Tire to try and mimic your moodboard, think about what you want. Do you want a romantic dining space? A place to work on your tan? Maybe a spot to grow flowers or veggies? We've grouped some of the most beautiful outdoor decorating ideas by needs to help you out. 

Deck ideas by style

When choosing the deck layout that’s right for you, there are a few factors to consider. Usable space, exterior home aesthetic, level of maintenance, yard features and weather will all affect your final decision. If you need a little inspiration, consider the following backyard deck ideas.

Modern and contemporary

  • Modern wooden deck
    Photo: Sutterstock/Sheila Say
  • Modern house on a mountainside with sleek dark wood patio and grass
    Photo : Shutterstock/Alexandre Zveiger
  • Modern wooden deck railing with furniture
    Photo: Shutterstock/Jamie Hooper

    Modern deck design embraces clean, simple lines, boasts ultimate functionality, and commonly uses composite, PVC, aluminum or cedar materials. In this style, you will also see aspects including picture frame railings, built-in seating, built-in planters, fun pops of colour and ample space for entertaining.

    Cozy 

    • Outdoor deck with wicker patio furniture, beige cushions and breakfast on the table
      Photo: Shutterstock/Ground Picture
    • Covered screened deck with comfortable seating, overhead fan and colourful carpet
      Photo: Shutterstock/Bryan Chavez Photography

      Whether you’re looking for small deck ideas or simply want to create a comfortable spot for intimate gatherings, cozy deck design is the way to go. Elements including plush outdoor furniture, warm lighting and potted plants will quickly create the atmosphere you’re looking for. Additionally, adding a permanent roof or pergola to your deck will really up the cozy vibes.

      Rustic

      • Wooden deck with furniture and potted plants
        Photo: Shutterstock/skyNext
      • Log cabin house with rustic deck overlooking trees
        Photo: Shutterstock/Artazum
      • A-frame cabin with covered porch and built-in fireplace
        Photo: Shutterstock/Hannahp1212

        Rustic-style decks often feature natural elements like reclaimed wood, natural stone accents and earthy colours. You may also see multi-level designs, exposed beams and comfortable seating options likely made of wicker or repurposed materials. 

        Eye-catching deck designs

        Deck design is pretty easygoing–you're only limited by your yardsize and budget! Whether you're looking to build a deck from scratch or upgrade your current one, these deck designs and decorating ideas are worth a look! 

        Create a shady haven

        • Surrounded by nature, a dark gray pergola overtops a stone patio, fireplace and wood furniture
          Photo: Shutterstock/Rabbitti
        • Cozy deck area with large couches, pergola with striped shade fabric, wooden lattices
          Photo: Shutterstock/Joseph Hendrickson
        • Boho style deck with wicker couch coverd with yellow, white and navy cushions, armchair, pouf used as a table and sheer curtains
          Photo: Shutterstock/Ground Picture

          No matter if you're in the city, the suburbs, or a rural area, a deck design that gives you lots of privacy is a must. Take this opportunity to add an architectural piece that both enhances the space and prevents the neighbours from looking in. From gorgeous outdoor plant walls to contemporary pergolas with privacy drapes, the possibilities are endless! 

          Build an outdoor kitchen

          • Wood pergola with string lights overtops a stone patio, couches, firepit and bar with marble countertop
            Photo: Shutterstock/Imran’s Creation
          • Stone veranda with stainless steel outdoor kitchen setup
            Photo: Shutterstock/Alexandre Zveiger
          • Stone deck featuring a gas barbecue, built-in sink in an island, black patio furniture with flower-printed sunshade
            Photo: Shutterstock/Ozgur Coskun

            If you have plenty of room to work with and enjoy being out in the fresh air, an outdoor kitchen can be a fantastic addition to your property. Create an area for a nice barbecue, countertops, and storage like cabinets for all your cookware and utensils. All that's left is to set up a comfy dining area with some bright cushions and you're ready to entertain!

            Heat things up with a fire pit

            • Casual backyard wood deck with comfortable patio furniture surrounding a square firepit
              Photo: Shutterstock/Pipas Imagery
            • Spacious covered deck with wicker patio furniture and a tabletop fire
              Photo: Shutterstock/IJM Photos
            • Wooden deck with fire pit and chairs
              Photo: Shutterstock/Nicholas J Klein

              Love bonfires but have a small backyard? No problem–just make some room in your deck design for a gas fire pit. It’s available in a variety of materials (e.g., ceramic and wicker) and styles (e.g., industrial and modern), so you're sure to find something that fits your aesthetic. Grab a good book and relax by the crackling flames. 

              More levels, more luxury

              Multi-level deck of a modern house
              Photo: Shutterstock/Dariusz Jarzabek

              If you're looking to live large, consider a multi-level deck design. It naturally separates areas, allowing you to have designated spaces for different activities. Want a private seating area for one (or two) that overlooks the backyard and a larger second area closer to the ground for hosting guests? Well, you can have both! 

              Thinking of renovating?

              Shape ideas

              • Round stone patio with a set of metallic table and chairs
                Photo: Shutterstock/Cmspic
              • Top-down view of a small wooden brown L-shaped deck, dining set and couch covered with gray and white cushions
                Photo: Shutterstock/Albany Capture
              • Hexagonal multi-level deck with white rail and two green chairs
                Photo: Shutterstock/Steven Belanger

                Decks come in all sizes and shapes including rectangular, circular, L-shaped, multi-level, hexagonal, octagonal and triangular, each offering distinct advantages. Rectangular decks are easy to install, timeless and highly customizable, while circular ones serve as a focal point, fit better in smaller spaces and pair well with modern styles. 

                L-shaped decks make the most of available space, enhance visual appeal and are great for entertainment areas. Multi-level decks work well on uneven terrain, using vertical space to establish different zones for gatherings. Hexagonal and octagonal decks provide unique visual interest, while triangular decks are ideal for minimalist designs and tight spaces. 

                Ultimately, the shape you choose will depend on the current layout of your yard, available space and your personal preferences. 

                Pattern ideas

                • Close-up view of herringbone deck boards
                  Photo: Shutterstock/Evelyn Apinis
                • Empty outdoor terrace with mosaic flooring wooden tiles, wooden partition and ivy plants
                  Photo: Shutterstock/Anela.k
                • Zoomed in look at mosaic flooring wooden tiles of a deck
                  Photo: Shutterstock/Deni Purwoko Hadi

                  Another easy way to add visual interest is by creating patterns with your decking materials. There are easy go-to options like single-width boards and more intricate designs like a picture frame pattern. Diagonal, pinstripe, herringbone, patchwork and inlay are also great pattern options, each with its own pros and cons.

                  Colour ideas

                  • Pale gray wood deck with rail and two wood Adirondak red chairs
                    Photo: Shutterstock/Aceshot1
                  • Top-down view of a woman staining a wooden deck with a brush
                    Photo: Shutterstock/Radoslav Cajkovic
                  • Close up view of ash gray composite deck boards
                    Photo: Shutterstock/James McDowall

                    When choosing a colour, you want to pick something that complements the existing landscaping and exterior aesthetic. Different materials will offer various colour options but some of the most common choices include black, gray, brown, and navy. For wood-based decks, you can expand that colour range vastly by deciding to paint your deck.

                    Railing ideas 

                    • Spacious wooden deck with built-in seating along the railing, backyard full of trees
                      Photo: Shutterstock/Anne Kitzman
                    • Modern wooden deck with clear glass railing overlooking trees
                      Photo: Shutterstock/Radoslav Cajkovic
                    • Upper level brown wood deck featuring a black iron railing
                      Photo: Shutterstock/Jason Finn

                      For deck railings, there are a wide variety of materials and styles to sift through. Wood railings offer affordability while vinyl and composite railings offer a low-maintenance alternative. Additionally, aluminum can be used to add durability. For style, you can choose from geometric patterns, glass panels, traditional rails, cable rails, built-in rail seating, and more. 

                      Ideas to get more privacy

                      • Outdoor deck and dining area with a black openwork privacy screen
                        Photo: Shutterstock/PhotoMavenStock
                      • Rooftop deck with woven reed privacy screen
                        Photo: Shutterstock/AleksNT
                      • Hardwood balcony lined with hedges and a privacy perforated wall
                        Photo: Shutterstock/Radoslav Cajkovic

                        For the ideal outdoor experience, privacy is essential. To up the privacy level on your deck, consider building a privacy wall, installing a pergola, getting creative with potted plants and deck décor, setting up a privacy screen or adding lattice panels where climbing plants can grow. 

                        Covering ideas 

                        • Close up view of concrete floor with a roller brush applying varnish
                          Photo: Shutterstock/Kamol Jindamanee
                        • Close up of a person’s hands while painting a deck
                          Photo: Shutterstock/DifferR

                          When searching for deck or balcony floor coverings you have a variety of materials to choose from. You want to find something that’s pretty weather resistant to withstand those harsh Canadian temperatures, but ultimately, the choice comes down to personal preference. Some popular options include waxed concrete, treated wood, composite flooring, PVC, epoxy and fibreglass.

                          Thinking of renovating?

                          Beautiful balcony decorating ideas

                          Quiet summer mornings nestled in a blanket with some tea and a view of the city. Warm summer nights sipping on cocktails in cozy chairs with friends, string lights strewn about. No matter what you're into, you're sure to find something you'll love among these balcony decorating ideas. 

                          Bring indoor comfort outdoors

                          • Large comfortable pale gray modular sofas displayed on an outdoor deck, swimming pool and terracotta amphoras
                            Photo: Shutterstock/Emmanuel Beyer
                          • Small balcony with cozy rattan furniture, plants, lantern and blanket
                            Photo: Shutterstock/Dariusz Jarzabek
                          • Indoor low couch and wooden benches displayed on outdoor deck
                            Photo: Shutterstock/Chiociolla

                            A small old couch, some handmade cushions, a thrifted coffee table…when decorating your balcony, use comfortable furniture to create a space you actually want to spend time in. If you have a big balcony, consider adding an armchair. Small balcony? Grab a bench that doubles as storage to tuck away fabric accessories on rainy days. 

                            Dine al fresco

                            • Coastal style backyard deck with a white dining table setup, navy blue sunshade
                              Photo: Shutterstock/PhotoMavenStock
                            • Modern patio with outdoor dining set up, wood table and plastic strings white chairs
                              Photo: Shutterstock/PhotoMavenStock
                            • Close-up view of rustic wooden table with dinner place settings, fruit, orange juice bottle and pale green hortensia
                              Photo: Shutterstock/Meteoritka

                              Nothing beats eating outdoors in the summer. If you have a tiny balcony, consider getting a fold-up table – you can put it away when it's not being used to free up space – or hanging up a fold-down balcony bar/table. If you want a unique and stylish balcony decorating idea, consider installing a small countertop on your railing so that you can eat while enjoying the view! 

                              Gardening with style

                              • Deck with white planters lining the railing
                                Photo: Shutterstock/Thomas Barrat
                              • White deck railing with hanging tomato plants in metal flower pots
                                Photo: Shutterstock/Dolores M. Harvey

                                Growing your own food is a great way to contribute to sustainability and cut down on your grocery bill. You don't have to dedicate your whole balcony to crops, though – just start with a small balcony garden. Feel free to mix and match planters or paint them all the same colour to complete your aesthetic. If you're short on space but want plants to be your centrepiece, build a vertical garden or install some shelves to house your favourites! 

                                Dazzling ceiling decor

                                • Clean wood deck with hanging egg chair and overhead string lights
                                  Photo: Shutterstock/Olesia Bilkei
                                • Group of people watching a projector screen in the backyard by the pool
                                  Photo: Shutterstock/Impact Photography

                                  If the night sky can make you stare up in awe, why can't your ceiling? Think string lights, hanging plants, bold ceiling paint, stick-on wallpaper, and even a sheet and projector. If you want a bit of luxury, you can install a false ceiling to add cachet to the space. It's a unique way to decorate your balcony and infuse your personality into it. 

                                  Must-haves for balcony and deck design

                                  From small condo balconies to large multi-level decks, there are lots of different ways to decorate your outdoor space. 

                                  Life in bloom

                                  Wooden deck surrounded by flowers, greenery, red patio chairs and sunshades
                                  Photo: Shutterstock/Klem Mitch

                                  Plants have a positive impact on mental health and flowers are no different – they're known to trigger happy emotions and improve feelings of life satisfaction over time! This summer, set aside some space for flowers, shrubs, and even small trees. While you're cultivating your green thumb, if you want to go the extra mile, invest in a few bee-friendly flowers and herbs or even a bee bath! You help them by providing a food source and they help you by pollinating your plants. 

                                  Embrace your unique style

                                  Wooden patio with eclectic furniture, wicker chairs, wildflowers on the green ceramic table
                                  Photo: Shutterstock/RossHelen

                                  There's no rule saying your balcony décor or deck design can't reflect the style of your home. If you're a fan of minimalism and comfort, go with Japandi and embrace Asian-inspired deck ideas and boho textiles. Love to showcase your personality in every nook and cranny of your home? Let your soul spill out onto the balcony – here, maximalism will be your best friend. Play with rugs, hanging chairs, plants, and more! 

                                  Play with colour

                                  • Backyard wood deck with colourful decor, yellow chair and table
                                    Photo: Shutterstock/united photo studio
                                  • Backyard wood deck with colourful decor, chair, plants and rug
                                    Photo: Shutterstock/united photo studio

                                    Don't be afraid to mix and match your favourite shades and colour palettes to create the perfect balcony or deck design. The goal is to create an outdoor space where you actually want to spend quality time, so feel free to ditch the classic dark wicker furniture with brown cushions if that's not your thing. Grab bold and bright couches, patterned textiles, and even retro tapestries–whatever brings a smile to your face! 

                                    Lasting style underfoot

                                    Wood deck with wicker furniture, black and white geometric patterned rug
                                    Photo: Shutterstock/Ground Picture

                                    Our list of balcony decorating ideas and deck designs wouldn't be complete without something to pamper your feet. If you're looking to cover that gaudy concrete, grab some outdoor flooring made of wood or porcelain. Outdoor rugs and fake grass are other great options, and they can serve as lovely accents on a more aesthetic wood deck, too! Just think about what texture you like to walk on and go for it. 

                                    Magazine-worthy outdoor designs

                                    Modern, industrial, maximalist, hygge…there are so many different balcony decorating ideas and deck designs to choose from. And while each of them is great in its own way, at the end of the day, all that matters is that you like the space you've created. So, take some time to pick out colours, furniture, and accessories that bring you joy. Doing so will ensure your outdoor space becomes the perfect oasis for you and your guests! 

                                    In the meantime, if you need some more inspiration, check out these urban rooftop patio ideas or our finished deck projects.

                                    Need to renovate your deck? 

                                    Whether your old deck requires some major TLC or you’re looking to add a brand new deck, these simple design ideas are the perfect place to start. When you’re ready, let us set you up with the ideal renovation specialist. 

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