Photos: Deckorators
As the summer season begins, you might be contemplating ways to reclaim your outdoor space. Whether you’re considering a simple deck upgrade or a complete redesign, online galleries, social media and magazines are a great way to get inspiration. Take note of these top five trends and learn more about new and exciting products and how they can work for you.
Varied-plank decking
A distinctive and thoughtfully designed deck is a sound investment. From a style perspective, varied-plank decking extends the look of wood flooring using various widths of deck boards to create a contemporary vibe, giving the illusion of transitioning interior elements to your outdoor space. By using multi-width planks, you can create unique patterns and designs for a truly custom look. Whether you’re using a smaller 3.5″ wide board or a larger 7.25″ wide board from the Deckorators Voyage Decking line, alternating widths will give a beautiful, timeless appeal to flooring.
Complementary colours
Canadian homeowners continue to play with complementary colour combinations. Emerging this year is the double-picture frame board technique, where the outside board colour complements the second inside picture-frame board colour. Finding a timeless colour pairing takes time and there’s no need to rush the decision. To determine a pleasing colour scheme, pick a primary colour and then match it with an opposite shade on the colour wheel. Playing with bold and unique colour combinations and integrating design elements, such as adding a “racer stripe” in a complementing yet contrasting colour, will result in a look that you’ll appreciate for the long haul.
Play in the shade
Backyard sun protection is an often overlooked but vital feature. Depending on your needs and the shape of your space, two options for backyard covers are the tried-and-true patio set umbrella, and the latest trend in sun protection, the sun sail. Both protect from the elements, but the sun sail extends further, designed to cover a wider area, helping to shield against UV-rays or a sudden downpour. Unlike an umbrella, the sun sail is a dramatic statement piece in any backyard. Plus, you can make it your own with bold colours, and by choosing a dynamic, geometric shape that protects but doesn’t hinder airflow. What will work best for you will be determined by the size and shape of your space and the kind of protection you need.
Functional lighting
Outdoor safety never goes out of style. Properly designed outdoor lighting extends daylight hours, allowing you to enjoy your outdoor space well into the evening. The right outdoor lighting will enhance the ambience of your space as well as increase safety of the area by illuminating deck space and improving the visibility of steps for your family and guests. One popular and subtle option for this desired look is the LUNA Step Light offered by Deckorators by Hinkley Lighting, as it fits seamlessly into deck stairs without stealing the spotlight, making sure you don’t miss a step.
Easy railings
Railings are not only functional, their design can truly elevate and complement an esthetically pleasing deck and landscape scheme. As one of the most visible deck elements, railing trends in 2020 are focused on mixing wood and metal elements for a natural and industrial look, such as a brown deck with bronze or silver railing. When deciding on which railing best suits your needs, don’t forget the view. Cable or glass railings are ideal to ensure visibility of beautifully landscaped backyards, decks or docks. The ALX Contemporary Cable Railing by Deckorators combines these trends, available in a scratch- and corrosion-resistant bronze with cable spacers that don’t hinder views.
Look for trends that reflect your esthetic and meet all your functional needs, then share your ideas with a local contractor who is well-versed in the latest products and styles for a second opinion. To find a reputable deck builder in your area, visit Deckorators.ca/Contractor .