deck aesthetics Archives - 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.

Exploring Composite Decking: Benefits, Costs, and Aesthetics

Introduction
When considering building or upgrading a deck, one of the most important decisions homeowners face is choosing the right material. Among the various options available, composite decking has rapidly gained popularity, especially in areas like Omaha, where weather conditions can impact deck durability. From composite and wood decking options to the benefits and aesthetics of composite materials, this guide covers everything you need to know about composite decking.

Composite Deck Benefits
One of the primary reasons why composite decking has become a favorite for homeowners is the wide array of benefits it offers. Compared to traditional wood decks, composite decking is highly durable. Thanks to its blend of wood fibers and plastic, composite decking durability ensures a longer lifespan, making it a smart investment for any homeowner. Another significant advantage is composite deck longevity. Composite decks are designed to resist common issues such as rotting, warping, and cracking that often plague wood decks. With proper care, a composite deck can last for decades, giving homeowners peace of mind.

Additionally, composite deck maintenance is much easier and more cost-effective than maintaining a traditional wood deck. While wood decks require regular staining, sealing, and even sanding, composite decks only need an occasional cleaning to keep them looking great. The minimal composite decking maintenance helps homeowners save time and money in the long run.

Aesthetics of Composite Decking
Not only is composite decking functional, but it also boasts impressive aesthetic appeal. Composite decking aesthetics have come a long way, and today, homeowners have a wide variety of composite deck colors and composite deck color choices to choose from. Whether you prefer the look of rich, earthy tones or sleek, modern grays, you can find a composite decking material that perfectly complements your home’s style.

What makes composite deck aesthetics even more appealing is that these colors don’t fade as quickly as traditional wood. The high-quality materials used in composite decks are engineered to withstand UV rays and harsh weather, so the composite decking colors remain vibrant for years. To enhance the look further, many homeowners opt for composite deck lighting, which creates a warm, inviting atmosphere for evening gatherings.

Cost and Installation
When it comes to cost, many homeowners are concerned that composite decking may be out of their budget. However, when you factor in the long-term savings from low maintenance and longevity, the composite decking cost becomes more reasonable. The composite vs. wood deck cost comparison reveals that while wood decks might be cheaper upfront, the ongoing costs of maintenance, repairs, and eventual replacement can add up quickly. Composite decking, on the other hand, requires less upkeep and lasts longer, making it a more cost-effective choice in the long run.

If you’re ready to invest in composite decking, it’s important to understand the installation process. Many contractors in Omaha offer composite deck installation services, but it’s essential to get a composite deck consultation beforehand to discuss your project goals, budget, and design preferences. During this consultation, you can also explore various composite decking options, ensuring you choose the best material for your needs.

Conclusion
In conclusion, composite decking advantages go beyond durability and low maintenance. The vast array of composite deck aesthetics, combined with the ease of installation and cost-effectiveness, make it an excellent choice for Omaha homeowners. With options like composite deck lighting and the diverse range of composite decking colors, you can create a stunning outdoor space that will last for years.

Click Here For More on Composite Decking

Custom Deck Low-Voltage Lighting

Our custom decking company in Omaha has planned and built thousands of decks in the Low voltage deck lighting for omaha custom decks. Omaha-metro area. Our decks span a wide range – from small to large, wood to composite, one level to multi-level. One benefit to hiring a professional deck builder like Decks, Decks, and More Decks is that our experience and knowledge can provide you guidance from the start on plans, materials, and overall aesthetics and accessories.

Deck lighting is for both ambiance and safety. And while a deck without lighting is fun and usable during daylight hours it can become invisible at night without lighting. Our Omaha deck builders can build low-voltage lighting into any custom deck. Low-voltage lighting is energy efficient and will make your space inviting and safer when the sun goes down. Our lighting is also built to last.

With planning and proper lighting selection, you can create a special ambiance that will transform your deck. Contact us to find out how we can help your family enjoy the summers with a custom deck.

Enhancing Custom Decks with Drainage Systems

Custom deck building is comprised of many components. From the materials to the design to the aesthetics, our Omaha custom decking company builds decks that are durable and beautiful. Part of a deck’s durability and aesthetic appeal is related to deck drainage.

Deck drainage systems are ideal for raised decks for two main reasons. First, they deflect water by custom deck drainage collecting it and driving it away from the home and foundation. Allowing airflow and ventilation is vital to the life of your home’s structure and the deck. In addition, deck drainage systems will provide your Omaha home with more usable living space below the custom-raised deck. It’s attractive, and durable, and will help brighten the space below the deck – making it more usable and enjoyable.

At Decks, Decks, and More Decks all our custom decks are built to the specific needs of your family, while taking into account safety, longevity, and beauty. A deck drainage system will only add to the function and beauty of your custom deck.