When thinking of creative outdoor living ideas you're certainly wondering what kind of deck styles are out there and which will best serve the purpose of spicing up your living space. You need to take into consideration whether it would complement your home and also your personal taste. There are many different styles of decks that are varied from traditional rectangles and squares to much more distinctive and expressive designs and structures.
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Factors that Affect your Deck Styles Determining which of the different deck styles would work best for you requires you to consider several factors beyond your personal preference. Home Architecture Deck styles should be going hand in hand with the different sizes, shapes, and aesthetics of your home. Some deck styles are highly versatile whereas others just work with one specific type of home. This is how your deck should complement your home architecture by providing some contrast to the existing structure. Available Space Your deck should fit into the space that is available without pushing the boundaries or overwhelming too much. A deck that is too big can cause your overall space to be congested/ Yard features such as a slope, trees, or a pool can affect what goes and what doesn't. Primary Function Many different styles of deck serve different functions and purposes. You need to pre-plan what style of deck to use based on the functionality and what type of deck that you require. Different Types of Decks Traditional Shapes Tried and tested rectangular and square shapes work unbelievably well with every type of home. If you're looking for different styles that work with almost any space, support a variety of functions, and suit a very wide range of home architectural styles. Low Simple low lying square deck styles give you an open and inviting space that creates a very seamless transition from home to the backyard. High Rise Rectangle A high-rise second-story deck is ideal for homes with very natural surroundings as the height gives you a very perfect place for seeing a view. This is perfect for homes with a mountain view or a coastal setting and ensures to frame a very beautiful view of the surroundings. Rectangle with Angled Corner Adding a couple of angled corners has the aesthetic utility of dulling the edge of a deck to the eye. It gives a more unexpected and a more modernist touch without straying far away from everything.
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Distinctive Shapes: The Statement-Making Choice Rectangle With Octagon Different styles of deck featuring larger and smaller sections. This combines multiple shapes to create a contrast between multiple shapes and to create a more modern view. The combination of Rectangle and Octagon will give you the flexibility to host both larger or smaller intimate gatherings. You can even create a multi level deck with the combination of multiple shapes and have a proper elevated viewing platform. Install a telescope and you can enjoy star seeing or even spot far away locations. L Shaped Wrap Around You can have an outside extension to your home in the form of an L-shaped wrap-around deck. This design keeps your backyard open by staying close to your home while still offering plenty of space for entertaining yourself or guests. This type of deck provides you the most budget and efficient way to install a deck that works with almost all types of deck.
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Best Deck Design Styles In 2025
Curved Design: Whether you curve one section or your whole deck perimeter, curved deck styles provide you with a more unique and elegant deck that gracefully blends with landscaping elements. Keep in mind that a curved design requires a qualified contractor, familiar with the heat bending process to build. Read more: What Size Deck Should I Have?
Deck Design Styles Contemporary - Less is more. Use sleek, modern design features, basic shapes and clean lines. Low-maintenance materials, such as composite, PVC, metal and stone.
Classical - Contains elements of classical architecture. It has an asymmetrical design. If you choose this option, you might choose white molded railings. Accent features include planter boxes, benches, and pergolas built into the structure.
Traditional - An example of a traditional style is one that embraces decoration. Soften sharp corners with octagons and chamfered edges. Rail caps with routered moldings offer a classic appeal. Traditional style decks can be built from cedar and redwood.
Mountain - The ideal style for a log cabin in the woods. Log railings and heavy timber framing complement a mountain design. Decks designed in the mountain style look much more substantial and durable. Use nature for inspiration and highlight scenic views with lookout areas.
Coastal - You can build a coastal deck no matter where you live, whether you live on Cape Cod or in Florida. For a seamless blend with the landscape, use gray composite decking or cedar railings. For an open view, glass and cable railings can be used. Materials that require little maintenance can withstand years of extreme weathering caused by storms. You can find several different styles of deck building plans by using our free online deck design tool.
FAQs
What deck design styles are most popular right now?
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Classics like rectangular and L-shaped/wrap-around remain staples, while multi-level and curved decks are used to create zones or soften lines. Style choice depends on your home’s architecture, yard, and use-case.
How do I match a deck style to my home’s architecture?
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Pick a style that either echoes your home (e.g., clean contemporary lines) or contrasts gently (e.g., curved edge against a boxy facade). Start with your home’s form and rooflines, then select shapes/rails that complement it.
What if my lot is sloped or space is tight—patio or deck style?
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Decks excel on sloped sites and for height transitions; patios shine on flat terrain. Many projects combine both for function and looks.
Are curved decks worth it—and do they need special skills?
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Yes if you want a statement look. Curved designs require heat-bending (for composite/PVC) and specialized framing, so most homeowners use an experienced contractor. Expect higher cost/lead time than straight builds.
What railing style best preserves views on scenic sites?
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Cable railing minimizes visual bulk for “see-through” sightlines; glass panels block wind and can be great on beaches. In marine settings, use 316 stainless or quality aluminum/glass to combat corrosion.
Which deck patterns amplify a chosen style?
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Add a picture frame border for polish; use herringbone/chevron to add energy on modern builds; mix board widths for subtle texture. Complex patterns are best handled by a pro.
Do elevated/second-story styles change code needs for guards?
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Yes. If your deck surface is over 30 in. above grade, a guard/railing is required; most jurisdictions using the IRC set the minimum guard height at 36 in. (some locales require 42 in.).
How much walking space keeps any deck style comfortable?
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Plan ~36 in. (3 ft) around furniture/paths (3–4 ft ideal). This keeps seating areas usable and circulation smooth across any layout.
What materials pair well with different looks?
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Contemporary/coastal: composite/PVC, aluminum, glass/cable rails (low-maintenance).
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Traditional/mountain: natural woods or wood-tone composites with heavier posts/trim.
Match durability/maintenance to climate and budget.
Wrap-around vs. multi-level—when to choose which?
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Choose wrap-around to extend living areas along the house and keep yard open; choose multi-level to separate dining/lounging/cooking zones or navigate grade changes.
Any quick railing guidance by style?
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Modern/minimal: slim black aluminum, cable or frameless glass.
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Traditional/classical: composite or wood rails with decorative caps.
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Coastal: glass for wind block or 316 stainless cable for salt air.
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