7 deck ideas for small spaces

Whether you've just moved into a new home or have lived there for a while, figuring out what to do with your garden space can be overwhelming, especially if you’re not an avid landscaper or gardener.

While many of us may not have a lot of land to work with, that doesn’t mean your options are limited. All gardens are important and with thoughtful planning and the right products, you can create a beautiful and functional space to enjoy year-round.

Check out these 7 deck design ideas for small spaces, shared by our experts.

Bring the inside, out

Bringing the indoors outdoors with decking is all about creating a seamless, cosy extension of your home.

Incorporate comfortable touches like outdoor rugs, cushions, and throw blankets to create a living room vibe in your garden. Consider adding functional features such as a small outdoor kitchen or bar area, using clever layouts like L-shapes to maximise space.

Let there be light

Just because the nights are drawing in, it doesn’t mean your evening should be cut short. Lighting not only adds a practical touch but also enhances the atmosphere and makes your small garden feel larger.

Consider adding outdoor wall lights to brighten your space and create an inviting ambiance, or floor lights to maximise space. Pair these with a fire pit for warmth and a stunning focal point, transforming your deck into a space that feels open, functional, and perfect for enjoying even after dark.

Play around with colours

Playing around with colour on your deck can completely transform the look and feel of your outdoor space. Light, neutral tones like soft greys or natural wood shades create a calm, minimalist vibe - making small areas feel more open.

Darker hues, such as rich browns or blacks, add a touch of sophistication and warmth, creating an intimate atmosphere. For a more vibrant and energetic feel, consider bold colours like reds or blues, which can make your deck a lively focal point. If you are looking to do this through oil or stain, check out our blog to decide which one’s best.

Different paints or consumables can enhance your space's personality and evoke specific moods, allowing you to reflect your style outdoors.

Make it multi-level

Multi-level decks or steps are perfect for utilising awkward or unconventional spaces such as slopes, as well as for creating unique areas or zones. This can allow you to have separate areas for seating, or to entertain. Balustrades and railings can section off spaces and tiers, and ensure safety too.

Add an adjacent patio area to a two-tier deck to give it that extra edge, if you have the space, and expand your garden even further. You could add a pergola or parasol onto this space to separate it further and add some privacy.

Put a spotlight on a feature

When you hear the words ‘garden feature’, a large waterfall or stone ornament may spring to mind. But you don’t need acres of land to create a focal point. Think fire pits, planters or a small water feature in the centre or corners of your landscape.

Combining elements can make affordable items look expensive and chic, and we’re seeing old porcelain sink basins and wooden barrels become main features in recent years. Add a simple waterfall within this and you’ve suddenly got a formal focal feature to enjoy with little to no upkeep at all.

Take advantage of illusions

There are many ways to create illusions when it comes to deck designs for small spaces, and designers themselves stress the importance of elevating objects off from the ground to create the illusion of more floor space.

Use hanging baskets, BBQ stands and mirrors around the garden to open up your area and allow more room for walkways or seating areas. Mirrors are particularly good for this because they do exactly that, mirror the view, essentially doubling the space.

Utilise every inch of space

Though all the tips and tricks mentioned, you can utilise every inch of space within a small garden space. Don’t leave any stone unturned and consider every nook and cranny of your deck.

One clever and simple deck design improvement for small spaces is decorative edging. Opt for a different shade of fascia or cladding edging to your deck boards to make the main space look wider.

Now you have all the inspiration you need to elongate your deck design for small spaces, without having the room to play around with! If you need bespoke design advice or a quote, then get in touch with our experts today or request a no obligation quote!