August 2025 - Decks, Decks, and More Decks

Deck Trends from Around the World: Ideas from Scandinavia to Japan

Decks may feel like a very American backyard staple—but truth is, people across the world are building incredible outdoor spaces, each influenced by local culture, climate, and aesthetic philosophy.

From minimalist Nordic decks to tranquil Japanese verandas, here’s a look at how global design ideas can inspire your next build.

1. Scandinavia: Minimalism, Warm Woods, and Cozy Vibes

In countries like Sweden, Norway, and Finland, outdoor spaces are designed to be clean, functional, and connected to nature. The goal is to create warmth in cool climates, often with natural wood tones, soft lighting, and seamless flow between indoor and outdoor zones.

Scandinavian deck traits:

Use of pine, spruce, or thermally modified wood
Light, neutral color palettes
Simple furniture with a focus on comfort (think sheepskin throws & lanterns)
Integration with nature—no over-designed clutter

What you can borrow:
Keep it simple. Use lighter deck boards, clean lines, and minimalist layouts. Add cozy details like a wood-burning stove, overhead string lights, or a sleek pergola.

A Scandinavian Family House That Blends Warmth and Style | Architectural Digest

2. Japan: Zen Philosophy and Seamless Transitions

Japanese homes often blend indoors and outdoors through engawa—a narrow wooden walkway or platform along the house, used as a quiet place to observe nature. Decks in Japan are less about big parties and more about mindfulness and tranquility.

Japanese deck traits:

Natural materials (cedar, bamboo, stone)
Horizontal emphasis with low seating or floor cushions
Symmetry and simplicity in layout
Garden integration: koi ponds, bonsai, or rock gardens often border the deck
Shoji-style privacy screens

What you can borrow:
Design your deck as a retreat, not just a hangout. Use peaceful landscaping, a quiet water feature, and natural finishes. Keep it low to the ground and visually balanced.

3. Australia: Indoor-Outdoor Fusion and All-Season Decks

Aussies take outdoor living seriously—especially since the climate supports it year-round. Their decks often act as extensions of the home, with large sliding glass doors, outdoor kitchens, and covered living spaces.

Australian deck traits:

Oversized decks with room for dining and lounging
Metal or hardwood decking for durability in heat
Retractable awnings or pergolas with UV protection
Seamless flow from interior floors to deck boards
BBQ zones and built-in seating

What you can borrow:
Think of your deck as a second living room. Add coverage, fans, and lighting to use it year-round. If your climate varies, retractable covers or shade sails can help.

4. Italy & Spain: Small, Stylish Courtyards

Mediterranean outdoor spaces prioritize ambiance over square footage. Courtyards, tiled patios, and small decks make room for slow meals, evening chats, and sun-soaked lounging.

Mediterranean deck traits:

Stucco or stone bordering instead of railings
Rich terracotta tones, warm wood, or tile inlays
Shaded pergolas with climbing vines
Compact spaces made lush with plants, herbs, or citrus trees
Decorative lanterns, textiles, and mosaic patterns

What you can borrow:
Use warm, earthy colors and accent your space with planters, shade structures, and wrought iron elements. Even a small deck can feel luxurious with the right textures.

5. South Africa: Elevated Living with a View

In South Africa, decks are often elevated to overlook scenic landscapes or built for security. There’s a strong emphasis on open-air views and functionality, often blending rustic materials with modern design.

South African deck traits:

Multi-level decks overlooking gardens or valleys
Rustic hardwoods with bold, modern furniture
Built-in fire pits or braai (grill) stations
Protective railings that don’t block the view
Roofed portions for heat relief

What you can borrow:
Take advantage of any view you’ve got—even if it’s just a garden or skyline. Use mixed materials (like wood + metal) and build for airflow and lighting control.

Final Thoughts: Your Deck Can Be Global—Without Leaving Home

Travel may be limited, but your deck design doesn’t have to be. Whether you’re channeling the serenity of Kyoto or the hospitality of Melbourne, bringing global style into your backyard can make your outdoor space feel refreshingly new.

The best part? Many of these global styles emphasize intentional design over size or cost. So no matter your budget, you can create a deck that feels like a little passport to peace.

Expert Deck Building Services in Omaha – Decks, Decks, and More Decks

When it comes to transforming your backyard into the ultimate hangout spot, nothing beats a beautifully built deck. At Decks, Decks, and More Decks, we’ve been serving the Omaha area for over 40 years, helping families create custom outdoor spaces that are built to last. Whether you’re looking for a cozy spot to relax after work, a large entertainment space for gatherings, or a durable composite deck that requires minimal maintenance, we’ve got you covered.

Why Omaha Homeowners Choose Us

Building a deck isn’t just about wood, nails, and screws—it’s about trust, experience, and craftsmanship. That’s why Omaha homeowners have turned to Decks, Decks, and More Decks for decades. Here’s what sets us apart:

Local Expertise – We understand Nebraska’s unique climate and build decks designed to handle everything from blazing summers to icy winters.
Custom Designs – No two homes are the same, so why should your deck be? We create decks that match your home’s style, your needs, and your budget.
Proven Reputation – With thousands of successful projects in Omaha and surrounding communities, our name speaks for itself.
Quality Materials – From natural cedar to high-performance composite decking, we use only materials that stand the test of time.

Deck Options We Offer

At Decks, Decks, and More Decks, you’re not limited to a “one-size-fits-all” approach. We build:

Traditional Wood Decks – Perfect for a warm, natural look with endless customization.
Composite Decks – Low-maintenance and long-lasting, with the added benefit of modern style.
Multi-Level Decks – Maximize space and add a wow factor to your backyard.
Custom Railings, Lighting & Add-Ons – Turn your deck into a complete outdoor living experience.

Serving Omaha and Beyond

We’re proud to call Omaha home and extend our services throughout the metro area, including Bellevue, Papillion, La Vista, Ralston, Gretna, Elkhorn, and beyond. No matter where you live, our team is dedicated to delivering the same quality, craftsmanship, and customer service that Omaha has trusted for generations.

Ready to Build Your Dream Deck?

Your backyard has unlimited potential—let us help you unlock it. From design to construction, Decks, Decks, and More Decks is here to make the process simple, stress-free, and rewarding.

Call us today at 402-690-1050 or visit DecksDecks.com to schedule your consultation.

Why Most People Build Decks at the Wrong Time of Year

If you’re like most homeowners, you probably think spring or early summer is the time to build a deck. Birds are chirping, the sun is out, and you’re dreaming of backyard barbecues.

But here’s a little secret from the pros: by the time the warm weather hits, it’s already too late.

Let’s break down why spring and summer might actually be the worst times to start your deck project—and when you should be planning and building instead.

1. Everyone Else Has the Same Idea in Spring

Spring is when homeowners rush to book deck contractors—and the surge is real. That means:

Longer wait times
Busier schedules
Higher demand (and sometimes higher pricing)
Your deck might not even be done by summer

By the time your project is approved, scheduled, and built… you’re looking at late summer or even fall before it’s ready.

2. Fall and Winter Are the Industry’s Best-Kept Secrets

While most people are raking leaves or putting up holiday lights, smart homeowners are building their decks. Why? Because:

Contractors have more availability
Permit offices are less slammed
Material prices may drop during the off-season
You beat the rush before the next warm season

Fall is the perfect time to start planning and designing. Winter is ideal for builds (yes—even in cold climates).

3. **Yes, You Can Build a Deck in Cold Weather**

Many people assume that winter weather makes deck building impossible. Not true. As long as the ground isn’t frozen solid, experienced builders can still dig, pour footings, and construct solid decks.

In fact, some advantages of winter builds include:

Frozen ground = less lawn and landscaping damage
No humidity = better material stability and curing
Less disruption to your spring/summer activities

Just make sure you hire a contractor who’s equipped for winter work—they’ll know how to adjust for cold temps and ground conditions.

4. More Time = Better Design

When you start planning in fall or winter, you’re not racing the clock. That gives you more time to:

Explore materials and decking options
Finalize permits and designs
Incorporate extras (lighting, built-ins, drainage, etc.)
Avoid last-minute regrets or rushed decisions

Building a great deck isn’t just about hammering boards—it’s about smart planning. Off-season gives you breathing room.

5. Enjoy Your Deck From Day One of Spring

The biggest win? When your deck is done before spring hits, you get the entire season to enjoy it. No waiting. No sawdust. Just backyard bliss from the very first warm weekend.

Final Thoughts: Build Smart, Not Seasonal

If you’re waiting until spring to start your deck project, you’re already behind. Fall and winter are the real MVPs when it comes to smart scheduling, better availability, and faster turnarounds.

So while your neighbors are still calling around for quotes in May… you’ll already be out back with your feet up and a drink in hand.

Pro tip: Planning starts now. Reach out early, lock in your design, and let the crew work their magic while the weather’s cool.

How Deck Design Affects Home Appraisal: What Real Estate Agents Wish You Knew

A well-built deck can feel like the crown jewel of your backyard—but when it comes time to sell your home, will buyers see it the same way?

The short answer: it depends.

Decks can absolutely increase your home’s value, but not all decks are created equal. Real estate agents and appraisers look at certain features, materials, and functionality when deciding if your outdoor space is an asset—or just an add-on.

Let’s explore how smart deck design can seriously boost your home’s appraisal—and what to avoid if you want your investment to pay off.

1. Yes, Decks Add Value—If They’re Done Right

A quality deck adds square footage of usable living space. That’s a big plus in the eyes of buyers and appraisers alike. According to Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs. Value Report, a deck can return around 65–75% of its cost in added home value.

But here’s the catch: only decks that are functional, durable, and well-maintained actually add value. A rickety, outdated, or unsafe deck? That’s a liability.

2. Material Matters

Real estate agents agree—composite decking is the current gold standard. It’s low-maintenance, long-lasting, and looks polished even after years of use.

Wood decks are still popular (and often less expensive up front), but appraisers may knock off value if the boards look worn, splintered, or weathered. The less maintenance a future buyer has to do, the better.

Best value-boosting materials:

Composite (especially in neutral, timeless tones)
Pressure-treated wood (if well-maintained)
Aluminum or steel railings (clean, modern, and durable)

3. Size, Layout, and Flow Matter More Than You Think

Bigger isn’t always better—but functional layout is everything.

A well-designed deck that flows naturally from your home—especially if it’s connected to the kitchen or living space—is more valuable than an oversized, awkwardly-placed structure in the yard.

Key layout tips that appraisers and agents love:

Seamless transition from indoor to outdoor space
Clear zones for dining, lounging, and/or grilling
Stairs and railings that match code and style
Easy access to the yard, pool, or garden

4. Extras That Catch a Buyer’s Eye

Want to really stand out on the MLS? Deck features that scream “lifestyle upgrade” can have a big psychological impact on buyers—and appraisers take note of that.

Features that may increase perceived and real value:

Built-in seating or planters
Under-deck drainage systems for dry storage
Pergolas or partial covers for shade
Custom lighting systems
Privacy screens or decorative railing panels

Even if these don’t all get formal dollar amounts in the appraisal, they help create that wow factor that pushes buyers to act fast.

5. **What Hurts Your Deck’s Value?**

There are also a few things that can drag your appraisal down:

Deck is clearly DIY and not up to code
Rotten boards, sagging rails, or rusted hardware
Wild color choices that clash with the home
Invasive plant growth or poor landscaping around the deck
Deck blocks natural light from windows or looks oversized for the yard

An outdated or neglected deck can actually become a red flag for buyers, especially in competitive markets.

6. Pro Tip: Appraisers Love Permits

Want to make sure your deck counts toward appraisal value? Get it permitted. A permitted structure tells the appraiser it’s legit, up to code, and safe—making it easier to include in the overall value of your home.

If your deck was built without permits, be ready to supply detailed construction info, materials used, and photos of the build.

Final Thoughts: Design for You, But Plan for Resale

You should absolutely design your deck to fit your lifestyle. But if you’re even thinking about selling in the next 5–10 years, it pays to take resale into account. Choose neutral tones, modern materials, and versatile layouts—and avoid shortcuts that could cost you later.

Because when done right, a great deck doesn’t just look good—it sells homes.

Decks and Neighborhood Aesthetics: Matching HOA Requirements Without Losing Personality

Homeowners’ associations (HOAs) are there to keep neighborhoods looking cohesive, clean, and safe—but let’s be honest: they can also feel like the creativity police. The good news? You can still design a deck that reflects your personality without stepping on your HOA’s toes.

Let’s break down how to navigate those pesky guidelines while still building a deck that feels like home.

1. Start With a Deep Dive Into Your HOA’s Rules

Before you sketch a single design idea, crack open your HOA handbook. Most associations have specific requirements related to:

Deck materials (wood vs. composite)
Approved colors or stains
Railing styles and heights
Placement and size of the deck
Privacy screen restrictions
Lighting, landscaping, and even outdoor furniture

It might feel like a buzzkill, but understanding the rules early can save you from a costly redesign—or worse, a teardown.

2. Look Around: What’s the Neighborhood Vibe?

Take a walk through your neighborhood. What do the decks actually look like? Are most of them stained a certain color? Are there popular railing styles or layouts?

Your HOA wants consistency, not carbon copies. So if most homes lean toward natural tones and simple railings, you can find subtle ways to match that energy—without blending into the background.

3. **Get Creative Within the Boundaries**

Here’s the fun part: once you know the rules, you can bend them (creatively).

Try these compliant-but-personal ideas:

Railing swaps: If metal is approved, choose a unique pattern like horizontal cable or decorative aluminum panels.
Decking layout: Use a chevron or picture-frame pattern with boards for visual interest.
Color: Stay within the approved palette, but choose a tone that complements your home’s trim or garden.
Privacy screens: If lattice is allowed, frame it with planters or climbing vines.
Furniture & accessories: Your HOA might regulate structural elements, but they rarely have a say in what sits on your deck—use that to your advantage.

4. Submit Your Design With Style

Most HOAs require you to submit plans for approval. Make your submission easier to approve by including:

A professionally drawn sketch or digital rendering
A short explanation of how your design fits the community guidelines
Material samples or links to products
Notes about landscaping or lighting, if applicable

The more you show that you’ve done your homework, the faster your plan gets that green light.

5. Ask for Exceptions (Yes, It’s Possible)

Don’t be afraid to politely ask for a variance if you have a unique design idea that’s just outside the rules. Especially if your plan maintains the overall look and feel of the neighborhood, you might find the board more flexible than you think.

6. Use Landscaping to Add Character

Even if you’re limited on color or materials, you can create a personal touch through plants, outdoor rugs, or integrated flower beds around the deck. Bonus: greenery softens the look of composite decking and adds a peaceful vibe.

Final Thoughts: Rules Don’t Kill Style—Lack of Imagination Does

You don’t have to settle for a boring deck just because you have an HOA. In fact, working within constraints often brings out the most creative solutions. With the right approach, you can build a deck that checks every compliance box and becomes your favorite spot in the house.

So yes—you can keep the neighbors happy and still have a deck that feels uniquely yours.