If you want to level up your space, you’re going to need the best deck and railing ideas. Whether you’re looking for deck ideas on a budget, deck ideas for above-ground pools, or just want some inspiration for your deck rail – you’ve come to the right place.
With years of hands-on experience in the industry, we’ve carried out countless decking designs and know what could work in your space. But if you’re still in the inspiration stage, we can help there, too. Let’s take a closer look at some of our top deck and railing ideas and why they might work for your space.
Creative Deck and Railing Ideas
Whether large or small, modernist or minimalist, your deck should be your personal sanctuary and bring you joy. A deck redesign is an opportunity to create additional living space that will complement your interior.
That said, finding inspiration that works with your aesthetic and needs might be tough, no matter the size of your project. That’s where we come in. Let’s take a closer look at our deck railing ideas and what the best use of your space could be.
Ideas for Your Deck
Even though one often doesn’t go without the other, let’s first see what your deck could look like and the design ideas to consider.
Built-in Deck Seating
One way to define your outdoor space is by using built-in seating. When you anchor one side of your deck with built-in seating and soften it with lots of pillows and throw blankets, for example, you’ll be able to create a true outdoor room that feels like an extension of your interior.
Fire Tables or Fire Pits
One statement piece that can elevate your space is a fire table. With a piece like that, you can enjoy your gorgeous deck no matter the weather or temperature.
But if you’re not for a fire table, you can also consider a fire pit to get the same cozy and enjoyable feeling. Not only does it add more character to your outside space, but it also extends the amount of time you can spend on your deck.
If you have the space, the budget, and the desire to do something a bit more unconventional, you can also try a statement firewall. A firewall is definitely a catching statement, but it’s one that will add to the harmonious indoor-outdoor design.
Screened-in Decks
If you prefer to enjoy your deck while the weather is warmer, chances are, you’re going to run into a lot of bugs and mosquitoes outside. One way to reduce the nuisance is by creating a screened-in deck.
A privacy screen not only repels pesky pests and creepy crawlies, but it also gives you, well, privacy. If your deck or home is surrounded by other homes, buildings, or nosy neighbours, you should consider getting a privacy screen.
Ideas for Your Railing
Aluminum Railing Ideas
Aluminum railing truly always stays in style, as the sturdiness and versatility of the material allow you to be as creative and as practical as you want.
Depending on what look you’re going for, you can do bronze railing, which complements the rich tones of natural wood. You could also do brushed aluminum railing for a more contemporary feel or black railing to ensure a timeless look.
Glass Railing Ideas
If you’re overlooking some incredible views and want unobstructed vistas, consider getting a glass railing. A glass railing also works if you choose a more complicated inlay for your deck. By using glass, your deck and the furniture on it won’t compete for attention with your railing.
Curved Railing Ideas
Gently curved aluminum railings of any material complement both large and small rounded decks. If you decide to go with a curved railing in rich brown, it’ll provide you with a vivid contrast to natural, tan wood-look decking.
If you prefer a more rustic look, you can go for bronze and a near-monochromatic style. A curved railing is also the perfect addition if you’re considering a fire pit or want to sit a little higher poolside.
Wood Railing Ideas
Another rustic deck railing idea is using wood because you’ll have an incredible variety to choose from. What’s more, wood railing also goes well with wicker and rattan furniture, both of which are popular choices, especially for uncovered decks.
Whether you prefer a minimalistic and sleek deck design or want something more ornate, wood is an excellent choice.
Lighting Ideas for Decks and Railings
Our guide to deck and railing ideas and designs wouldn’t be complete if we didn’t talk about lighting. As you might know, lighting is truly what can make or break a space, so finding the best lighting for your space is crucial.
In the case of deck design, you’re looking for both function and beauty, which means overhead and decorative lighting. If you have any sort of ceiling structure or beams on your deck, one fun idea to make them stand out is with overhead lighting. You can add string lights or lanterns to the ceiling, contributing to the ambiance and creating an enjoyable glow.
Another way to go is with sconces and even chandeliers. With a wall sconce, you can create a beautiful ambiance and enjoy your deck well into the night.
How to Choose the Best Materials
Before going ahead with any deck and railing ideas, you must choose the right decking material. As there are many options to choose from, your final decisions will depend on your budget, needs, and specific taste.
If you’re building next to a lake, pond, pool, hot tub, or any other body of water, you should consider aluminum or metal decking. As these materials resist moisture, they’re the best choices.
You can also consider composite decking as it’s the most weather-resistant material that requires almost no maintenance. Even though it has a slightly higher upfront cost, composite decking will last you well into the future and is a true long-term investment.
However, if it’s important to have low upfront costs and you’re confident that you can commit to regular maintenance, pressure-treated wood decking could be the answer.
Final Thoughts on Deck and Railing Ideas
As you can see, there’s almost an infinite amount of deck and railing ideas to choose from. Depending on your preferences, budget, and space, you’ll have countless designs and materials to choose from.
If you’re struggling to make any sense of your ideas or don’t know where or how to start – call Kavaleer Renovations. With years of expertise in both design and construction, we can help you build deck railings, a privacy fence, and anything else you can think of.