September 4, 2024Updated: May 18, 2026
Summarize with AI:
Alex Vieru
Managing Partner & Co-Founder, Royal Deck"The structure of your deck sets the ceiling for everything else. Once the boards, railings, and stairs are right, the decorating side is straightforward: lighting on the stairs and posts extends how late you actually use the space, a contrasting railing color ties the deck to the house exterior, and if you're hosting regularly, an outdoor kitchen starting around $14,000 turns the deck from a patio into a destination. Start with how you want to use the space in the evening and work backwards from there."
Adding a custom composite deck to your home is a great idea for expanding your outdoor entertainment space. You can take this expansion one step further by using some of the following suggestions to enhance the deck area to create a beautiful outdoor space.
Enhanced Stairs
Add lighting to your stairs to give them a more dramatic look. This will make your deck area even more eye-appealing at night. As a bonus, having lit-up stairs is also a great safety feature for when you have guests over.
Creative Skirting
You can make the lower part of your deck area stand out by being creative with your landscaping. Add small bushes and plants with lights and rock features to create a beautiful setting for your deck.
Outdoor Furniture
You can add outdoor furniture to your deck that matches the color scheme of the exterior of your home. Look for furniture rated explicitly for outdoor use to get the most use from the pieces. Match the furniture with some beautiful plant pots so that you can add some greenery to your deck area.
Custom Railing
All decks need a railing area for safety, but this does not mean that they have to be plain. Add custom railings to your deck that is contrasting to the deck material. This gives your deck area a very modern appearance. Small light features around your railings can also add a dramatic effect to your deck.
Extend Your Deck With A Patio
You can give your deck a multi-layered appearance by adding a patio area. Add steps that go down to the patio and trim the patio area to match your deck. This gives your deck a multi-layered look and increases the amount of outdoor entertainment space.
Add A Louvered Roof System
Add height to your deck area and increase the amount of time you can use your deck by adding a louvered roof system. These roofs are very eye-appealing and allow you to add lighting features with ease so you can use your deck at night.
Add An Outdoor Kitchen
Take your deck entertainment to the next level by adding an outdoor kitchen. A built-in grill station, counter space, and a small fridge make your deck the perfect spot for hosting family and friends. Royal Deck offers custom outdoor kitchens starting at $14,000, designed to complement your deck and fit your lifestyle.
For More Great Ideas Speak With Royal Deck
Royal Deck is one of the leading custom composite deck builders serving homeowners across Illinois and Georgia. We can help you design an outdoor deck space that will meet your needs and be visually appealing. Royal Deck can also help you enhance your deck space by adding features such as a louvered roof system.
Give Royal Deck a call if you are ready to build your new custom deck. We will be pleased to come out and talk to you about what you would like in a deck system and provide you with a comprehensive quote. You will be thrilled to see how easy and affordable it is to build a custom composite deck.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I add privacy to my deck without enclosing it?
Tall planters with fast-growing shrubs or ornamental grasses are one of the easiest and most attractive ways to create natural privacy. You can also add a vertical privacy screen or a trellis with climbing vines on one side of the deck. These options give you the seclusion you want without making the space feel closed in.
What is the best way to zone a deck for different activities?
Think of your deck as an outdoor room with dedicated areas for dining, lounging, and cooking. Use outdoor rugs, different furniture groupings, or even a change in deck levels to visually separate each zone. Keeping each area intentional makes the space feel larger and more organized.
What are the best ways to add ambiance lighting to a deck?
Beyond stair and railing lights, string lights draped overhead are one of the simplest ways to make your deck feel warm and inviting after dark. Lanterns and candle holders on tables or along the railing add a softer glow for dining and entertaining. Layering a few different light sources together gives your deck a polished, finished look.
How do I choose a decor style that matches my home?
Start with the exterior of your home and use it as a guide. If your home has a modern look, go for clean lines and neutral tones in your furniture and accessories. For a more traditional home, warm wood tones and classic outdoor furniture pieces tend to work beautifully. Royal Deck designers can help you put together a cohesive look from the deck boards all the way through to the finishing details.
As a leading deck builder in Illinois and Georgia, Royal Deck specializes in creating stunning new decks, resurfacing existing ones, and designing porches that beautifully enhance homes.
