innstyled backyard design ideas
Are you looking to transform your outdoor living space? Well we’ve got 50 inspiring deck designs, each including gazebos and pergolas built in. These designs are not only visually stunning but are also very achievable for the solo DIY enthusiast, thanks to the innovation of TuffBlock deck blocks like this deck subframe below: Building a deck platform is actually a lot simpler than you might imagine, even if you’re new to DIY projects. By using deck blocks, you can avoid the need for digging holes, mixing concrete and then waiting days for those posts to set. You also avoid damaging a pipe or electrical cable running underground! Let these 50 deck designs inspire you to create an outdoor oasis that not only elevates the aesthetic of your home but also offers a practical and enjoyable space for relaxation and entertainment. Deck Designs 01. A great design feature is to use decorative stones around the border of the deck. Not only does it look visually stunning, but it also helps to hide the TuffBlock deck blocks for a seamless finish. Also consider using cloth on your pergola for extra shade and privacy. 02. The design below features a deck with 2 heights, with a lower ground deck acting as a great step up from the path. It’s also a great visual feature and can transform a simple rectangular deck platform into a visually stunning living space. 03. A deck is the perfect place for a bbq & pizza oven to accompany an outdoor dining area. The pergola provides shade for the dining area, and the design as a whole makes it perfect for entertaining during summer! The L-shaped deck is a great way to incorporate a rock bed or garden bed, and a runner rug adds visual appeal to incorporate more textures and patterns to the deck design. 04. Patio decks are a perfect way to extend the living space of your home. Because TuffBlock deck blocks accomodate 4×4 posts, you can build up your deck to match the height of your door jam. A raised patio deck with a set of steps is the perfect way to connect your yard to your home. 05. A deck can provide a great outdoor living room. Consider how a corner of your yard could be transformed into a place to read, enjoy drinks with friends or dine. Growing plants up your pergola is a stunning way to add natural color and incorporates it seamlessly into your garden. 06. Did you know TuffBlock deck blocks can hold 1700 lbs per block, and are break tested to 11,000 lbs each! This makes them perfect for holding up hot tubs like the deck below. What better way to enjoy the weekend in your yard than to come home to your own personal spa? Gazebos and hot tubs are a match made in heaven. 07. We love the simplicity of this design. The legs of the pergola match well with a traditional home and are both simple and elegant. The colors are muted and earthy, but also warm and inviting. The deck features an outdoor dining space that could be replicated in any yard! 08. This is a similar design to the deck above and is a great alternative. 09. This is a more modern design with straight lines and a metallic gazebo, but also incorporates rustic themes with the stones, pavers, and rock garden bed. The step is unique, featuring a cutout that provides room for a stone step. Neatly trimmed hedges and Arborvitae plants are the perfect accompaniment for creating privavy, and for a classy border to your deck. Consider using uplighters with these to add more visual contrast around your deck. This will look beautiful at night! 10. This one’s a video of ours. Watch how Chris built a huge pergola from scratch, that included an outdoor kitchen, outdoor dining area, a bar and a pizza oven…all using TuffBlocks for the floating deck, built around his swimming pool. 11. Potted plants are a great way to spruce up a ground deck. Consider installing fans in the roof of your pergola for some much needed air flow during hot summer months. 12. 13. This is a unique curved gazebo. The cloth allows plenty of light to come in, but softens the harsh sun. The curved design means you’re shaded from the sun even when it’s lower in the sky. 14. L-shaped ground decks add a nice visual touch from a standard rectangle deck. The ivy here really makes the pergola look like it’s seamlessly connected to the yard. 15. Hanging plants go perfect with pergolas! The options are endless, and considering pergolas allow some light in from the top, they allow the plants to grow well. 16. A floating deck from fence to fence in small yard can completely transform the space! You can walk onto your deck and enjoy the outdoors without dragging mud into the house. You can also make the most of the space, with a dining area, living area, a spot to sunbathe and even a spot to do yoga/workouts! 17. We love how this deck and pergola blends seamlessly with the nature around it. 18. Combine a slightly raised deck with a step so you can easily access it without a big step up. Deck blocks like TuffBlock allow you to create both ultra low and raised decks so you’re covered either way. 19. A clever use of deck blocks allows for the creation of a raised deck area, seamlessly integrating with the house and leading to a cozy gazebo retreat. 20. Why not place a huge L-shaped couch on your floating deck! You can turn your deck platform into a big outdoor living room. 21. Who doesn’t love a bbq in summer? This deck design is everything you need to entertain friends and family in those warm summer months. 22. If you’re building your deck platform in the middle of your yard then a stone pathway using pavers can be a great way to connect it to your house. 23. 24. 25. This design has a unique step which is inverted, and allows easy access to the deck. You’ve made it halfway! Hopefully you’ve seen some designs that have inspired you. If you want to learn how TuffBlock can help you build one of these decks then feel free to watch our end to end tutorial showing you each step: One of the biggest benefits with TuffBlock is its low profile which allows you to build ultra low decks (unlike concrete deck blocks) at only 2 inches from the ground. This way, you can build a patio deck without adding a big step up. TuffBlocks are lightweight at 1.5 lbs each, but are load rated to 1700lbs per block (and break tested to 11,000lbs each). They’re also UV stabilised for direct sunlight. TuffBlocks allows you to build quickly, with less hassle and with peace of mind. Check out our article ’13 Benefits Of Using TuffBlocks’ to see why it’s a great solution for foundations! Ok enough about TuffBlock 🙂 Back to the deck ideas… 26. Decorative stones are great for the edge of your deck, and visually frame it. Take advantage of your pergola by hanging lights in it so you can enjoy the space in summer nights! 27. This minimalist deck maximizes small spaces with clean lines and a retractable awning, providing a versatile outdoor living area. The lighting of a space like this can really transform it at night. The use of a trellis or fence with wide gaps can allow plants to grow up it and allow for a visually pleasing backdrop. 28. This simple deck platform is perfect for any yard. Enjoy your lush lawn whilst sitting on a comfy outdoor sofa. 29. Classic elegance meets outdoor living in this spacious deck area, featuring a Victorian gazebo and ornate furnishings for a touch of opulence. 30. Multi-layered decks with steps can be slightly more difficult to build, but worth it for the added visual appeal. 31. This is one of our favourites! This pergola fits perfectly with the traditional ‘craftsman’ style house. By using 4×4 lumber posts, you can build a deck that seamlessly matches the height of the patio door. And with 3 levels of pyramid steps, it creates an easy way to access the beautiful yard whilst leaving the space open. 32. This is similar to the deck above, but uses a more traditional ‘stringer’ staircase. If you have a spot in the corner of your yard then a raised deck could be a great addition. 33. This enchanting garden deck is accentuated by a vintage-style gazebo, surrounded by a riot of colorful flowers and verdant plants. 34. 35. 36. A contemporary deck design featuring sleek lines and a minimalist pergola creates a striking contrast with the lush garden surroundings. Trimmed hedges and horizontal screen fencing are perfect for a contemporary deck. 37. Place a garden bed next to your deck with a small masonry retaining wall. 38. A patio deck with an extended roof or pergola is the easiest way to extend the living room and have it flow out into your yard. This space doesn’t have to be an outdoor dining room. It could be anything you want! 39. 40. 41. This space would be great for meditating, doing yoga or simply relaxing with a book! 42. This one is intended to show you the subframe of the floating deck platform. Hopefully it gives you an idea of how many of these decks ideas might go together, and gives you a look under the hood. 43. This is another zen deck design, this time featuring a raised garden bed in the middle of the deck. Imagine what you could grow, and create an amazing feature right in the centre! We love the curved stone path that leads you up to this deck. What a great space. 44. Swimming pools and decks go hand in hand. And this modern deck with a pergola is the perfect place to dry off after a dip. 45. Rocks, stones, rugs and potted plants…what’s not to love. 46. Afraid of the mosquitos? A gazebo structure like this might be your best bet to keep them away whilst enjoying your deck. 47. Pergolas create just enough shade to create a cooler spot during the hot summer months. 48. If you already have an overhanging roof, then a gazebo can be great way to extend that out further. Here they’ve got the best of both…the dining area and then a great spot for a lounge. 49. Want to be slightly different? Well decks boards laid at a 45 degree angle could create a visually striking deck design. 50. Lighting can completely change a space, and nothing shows that more than this deck. Hanging lights & candles can be used together to light up a space. There it is! 50 inspiring deck projects that you can take on yourself. Hopefully you’ve found something in here that you want to replicate, or gives you ideas that you can mix and match for your own home. If you’re considering using deck blocks, then check out our article ’13 Benefits Of Using TuffBlock’ which outlines why TuffBlock is a great option compared with alternative foundation methods. Build On.
Gazebos are a fantastic addition to any backyard, providing not only a beautiful focal point but also a functional space for outdoor entertaining and relaxation. Whether you have a large yard or a small patio, there are many gazebo ideas to suit your space and style.
One popular gazebo idea for the backyard is a traditional wooden gazebo. These structures are timeless and can be customized to fit your personal taste. You can choose from a variety of wood finishes, such as cedar or pine, and add details like lattice panels, benches, and flower boxes to make your gazebo truly unique. A wooden gazebo offers a cozy and rustic feel that is perfect for outdoor gatherings or simply enjoying a quiet moment in your backyard.
If you want a more modern look, consider a metal gazebo. These structures are sleek and elegant, offering a contemporary touch to your outdoor space. Metal gazebos come in a variety of styles, from minimalist designs to ornate structures with intricate detailing. They are also durable and low-maintenance, making them a great option for busy homeowners who want a stylish backyard retreat without the hassle of upkeep.
For those with limited space, a small gazebo or pergola can be a great addition to a patio or deck. These structures provide shade and privacy while still allowing you to enjoy the outdoors. You can choose a simple design with clean lines or opt for a more elaborate structure with decorative elements like columns or lattice walls. Add some comfortable seating, outdoor lighting, and a few potted plants to create a cozy outdoor oasis right in your own backyard.
Another unique gazebo idea is a gazebo with a built-in fire pit. This combination offers a cozy and inviting space for evening gatherings with friends and family. You can roast marshmallows, tell stories, or simply relax by the fire in the comfort of your own backyard. Add some outdoor seating, cozy throws, and a few outdoor pillows to make your gazebo the ultimate hangout spot all year round.
No matter what style or size gazebo you choose for your backyard, it is sure to enhance your outdoor living experience and add value to your home. From traditional wooden structures to modern metal designs, there are endless possibilities to create the perfect backyard retreat with a gazebo. So why wait? Start planning your gazebo project today and transform your backyard into a beautiful and functional outdoor space that you’ll love to spend time in.
