How to decorate your deck for the summertime

Summer is the time we spend a lot of time outdoors, so creating a warm, inviting space to chill out and enjoy nature is really important. Whether you’re entertaining friends and family, or simply enjoying a morning cup of coffee, your exterior environment is equally as important as inside your home.

Now that summer is officially here, it’s a good time to highlight some simple ways you can upgrade your deck.

Focus on furniture

Select natural materials and finishes to give an overall sense of calm and peace for your deck. Teak furniture is ideal, as you don’t have to store it indoors during the winter, while faux wicker pieces have a great organic feel, never break down and are easy to clean. If you get a lot of direct sunlight, create shade with a cantilever umbrella. Transportable, small tables also work well as a convenient place to lay down a book or place a cocktail.

Build a small garden

Before you start selecting what plants and flowers you’re going to use, make sure you evaluate your sun exposure, wind and general temperature zone your home is in. All of that will affect which blooms will grow best.

Whether beside the deck door, along the stairs or a railing, scatter beautiful potted plants all over in varying sizes and shapes, while also using a bunch of annuals and perennials for beautiful shots of colour. There’s certainly no shortage of planters available, so you can find virtually any size and style that suits you. This is the time I also plant my favourite herbs (a sunny patio is the perfect spot to grow them), along with a tomato plant or two. If you’re uncertain what to plant where, your best bet is to go to a garden store so they can answer any questions you have.

Create a cosy seating area

Turn your deck into an outdoor living room by accessorizing with a cosy seating area that is all-weather and durable. It will lend a comfortable vibe to the space. Think of adding an outdoor rug giving the space a nice textural element, while also being highly functional (it will help anything from being tracked when you move in/outdoors). Opt for a rug in a neutral colour, so as to blend in with your existing deck (and furniture) as best as possible.

Create privacy

Love your deck, but not your view? Block out your street, a busy intersection or that nosy neighbor by using a row of evergreens to form a privacy wall where you need it. It’s the easiest way to build an intimate, private space in your backyard. I love faux hedges and plants, too. Definitely less maintenance, and they last for years. If you have the space, consider a retractable awning, that will not only protect you from the sun, but will also act as an anchor to your space giving a more intimate feel.

Alternatively, you could install a wooden lattice wall to one side of your deck and plant clematis and climbing roses that will naturally grow up the lattice. Over time they’ll form a gorgeous wall of blooms.