Creating a stunning two-level deck is a perfect way to maximize your backyard’s potential. It combines strategy with style, considering both architecture and usability. Surprisingly, among the sought-after designs for 2024 are expansive double-wide decks and intricately patterned outdoor decks, offering both functionality and visual appeal. Prepare to turn your backyard into an oasis of relaxation and entertainment.
Our article showcases the top 5 backyard two-level deck designs trending in 2024, featuring innovative layouts, materials, and amenities. From modern composite decking to integrated lighting and functional spaces, these recommended designs from Excel Custom Decks offer both style and practicality for creating an exceptional outdoor living area.
Top 5 Two-Level Deck Designs for Your Outdoors
When it comes to designing a two-level deck for your outdoor living spaces, the possibilities are truly endless. However, choosing from the top designs can make the decision-making process much simpler and more enjoyable. Let’s explore these innovative designs with a careful eye on form, function, and style.
1. Expansive Double-Wide Deck
This design features two wide deck areas situated at different levels, creating spacious zones for entertaining and relaxation. The upper level can serve as a dining area while the lower level offers a cozy spot for lounging. The double-wide deck is perfect for homeowners who love to host outdoor gatherings and events or those who simply desire ample space for various outdoor activities. Imagine being able to have a dinner party on one level while others relax on the lower level or engage in casual conversations – it’s like having an outdoor living room!
2. Intimately Secluded Deck with Pergola
A well-designed pergola can transform a space into a stunning outdoor sanctuary. This two-level deck design features a secluded nook equipped with comfortable seating underneath a beautifully crafted pergola on the upper level, providing an ideal space for private conversations or quiet moments of relaxation. The lower level can be designed as an open area, perhaps with a fire pit or additional seating where guests can gather for warmth and conversation, maintaining coziness and elegance throughout the different levels.
3. Multi-Function Entertainment Deck
This design provides dedicated spaces for multiple activities outdoors. Imagine hosting gatherings with an outdoor kitchen on one level, a bar area on another, and a hot tub on yet another. This multi-function entertainment deck is all about versatility. It allows homeowners to create distinct areas for different purposes without compromising on aesthetics. Whether it’s cooking up delicious meals, mixing signature drinks at the bar, or unwinding in a bubbling hot tub, this deck offers something for everyone.
4. Integrated Landscaping Design
Incorporating landscaping elements directly into the structure of your two-level deck breathes life into your outdoor living space. By building spaces around existing trees or including flower beds and other greenery within the decks’ levels, you’ll create a natural and harmonious connection between your house and the yard beyond. This integration of nature enhances the overall aesthetic appeal of your deck and promotes a serene atmosphere where you can truly commune with nature.
5. Elaborate Patterned Decks
Taking custom design to the next level, intricate patterns can be etched into both levels of your deck to create unique visual interest. From herringbone to lattice patterns, having intricately patterned decks adds unparalleled beauty to your outdoor living space. These designs offer not just functionality but become true works of art that elevate the aesthetics of your backyard.
Each of these designs brings its unique charm and functionality to your outdoor space, offering endless potential for customization and personalization according to your specific needs and taste.
These top 5 two-level deck designs showcase various options that cater to different preferences and lifestyles, allowing homeowners to select a design that best compliments their outdoor deck living vision while adding sheer aesthetic appeal to their backyard environment.
Best Materials for Two Level Decks
Building a two-level deck adds dimension, functionality, and aesthetic appeal to your outdoor space. Whether you’re planning to create separate areas for dining and lounging or want to maximize your backyard’s potential, choosing the right materials is essential for the longevity and beauty of your two-level deck. Here are the best materials for building two-level decks and provide insights into their advantages and considerations.
Pressure-Treated Wood
Pressure-treated wood is a popular choice for two-level decks due to its affordability and durability. Treated with chemicals to resist rot, insects, and decay, pressure-treated wood is suitable for both the structural framework and decking boards of your deck. Excel Custom Deck’s trusted supplier, Azek-TimberTech presents an array of decking solutions that effortlessly blend style with low-maintenance durability, ensuring they remain stunning year after year. They offer a range of nature-inspired product lines and low-maintenance decking solutions that can withstand the changing of the season.
Composite Decking
Composite decking offers the look and feel of natural wood with minimal maintenance requirements. Made from a blend of wood fibers and recycled plastic, composite decking is highly resistant to moisture, rot, and fading, making it an ideal choice for two-level decks exposed to the elements. While composite decking may have a higher upfront cost than wood, its longevity and low maintenance requirements can make it a cost-effective option in the long run.
PVC Decking
PVC decking is engineered to withstand harsh weather conditions, making it an excellent choice for two-level decks in climates with extreme temperatures or humidity. Unlike wood or composite decking, PVC decking is entirely synthetic, making it resistant to moisture, mold, and insects. Additionally, PVC decking is available in a wide range of colors and textures, allowing you to customize the look of your two-level deck to suit your style preferences.
Aluminum Decking
Aluminum decking offers unmatched durability and longevity, making it an ideal choice for high-traffic areas and two-level decks requiring minimal maintenance. Resistant to rust, corrosion, and fading, aluminum decking is virtually maintenance-free and can withstand exposure to the elements without warping or splintering. While aluminum decking may have a higher upfront cost than other materials, its long-term durability and low maintenance requirements make it a worthwhile investment for your two-level deck.
Tropical Hardwoods
Tropical hardwoods like ipe, cumaru, and tigerwood are prized for their natural beauty, durability, and resistance to rot and insects. While tropical hardwoods may have a higher upfront cost and require specialized tools for installation, their unmatched durability and longevity make them a popular choice for two-level decks seeking a luxurious and timeless look. Additionally, tropical hardwoods age gracefully, developing a rich patina over time that adds character and charm to your outdoor space.
Customizing Your Multi-Level Backyard Escape
The stairway to levels design is akin to creating a grand entrance to your outdoor oasis. With elegant, wide steps leading from one level to the next, it’s an architectural feature that can truly elevate your outdoor space. The grand staircase captures attention, serving not only as a practical connection but also as a stunning focal point that adds grace and grandeur to your backyard.
These stairs serve as more than just a means of ascent or descent; they are a part of the overall ambiance and experience of your outdoor living area. They provide an alluring transition between the upper and lower areas while making a design statement, conveying a sense of grandeur.
Well-Lit Steps and Built-In Lighting
To add a touch of elegance and enhance safety, the stairway to levels design often incorporates well-lit steps. Built-in lighting along the staircase not only creates a captivating nighttime ambiance but also ensures safe passage for you and your guests. It’s like adding personality and flair to your outdoor space while maintaining functionality.
At Excel Custom Decks, we proudly partner with In-lite Lighting to provide our clients with deck lighting installations that exceed expectations. With In-lite’s innovative and stylish lighting solutions, we can illuminate your deck in a way that not only enhances its beauty but also creates a welcoming and inviting atmosphere for you and your guests to enjoy.
Incorporating Landings for Versatility
Another distinctive feature of this design is the addition of landings. These intermediate platforms between flights of stairs break up long staircases into more manageable segments. They create distinct spaces for different activities on each level, zoning your outdoor area for various functions—whether it’s dining, lounging, or hosting gatherings.
These landings provide an excellent opportunity to diversify the functionality of each deck level. On one landing, you can set up your grill and create a dedicated outdoor cooking space, while on another you can have a cozy sitting area with lounge chairs and side tables. This aspect significantly amplifies the uses of your outdoor space.
Adding Character Through Patterns
Aside from color variation, mixing and matching patterns takes the aesthetics up a notch. Alternating patterns or inlays on the deck surface can create eye-catching focal points within the structure. The deck transitions from being simply functional to becoming a conversation starter, offering a feast for the eyes as well as being a great spot for hosting guests and family bonding.
For instance, imagine geometric shapes created by using different-colored boards arranged in a specific sequence. This creates visual energy and flow, drawing attention to specific areas of your deck in an enchanting way.
Elevating Aesthetics with Composite Materials
Opting for composite decking opens up an array of possibilities with multicolored designs. Composite materials are now available in an extensive selection of hues, allowing you to get creative with color – even more so than natural wood staining. This means you can easily achieve the exact aesthetic you have in mind.
Just like painting on a canvas, using composite materials allows you to blend colors seamlessly and create intricate designs with exceptional durability – much like an artist using various paints and textures to bring their masterpiece to life.
Whether you are considering adding a custom patio, an outdoor kitchen, or built-in seating solutions to enhance your deck, these features go a long way in creating an inviting and versatile outdoor space for relaxation, entertainment, and quality time with loved ones. Contact us now at (414) 441-2017.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some tips for maintaining and caring for a two-level deck to ensure its longevity?
To ensure the longevity of a two-level deck, regular maintenance is essential. Start by checking for any loose or damaged boards and replace them promptly. Additionally, applying a weather-resistant sealant every few years will protect the wood from moisture and UV damage. Statistics show that decks that receive proper maintenance can last up to 20 years or more, saving homeowners the cost of frequent repairs or replacements.
What are the benefits of a two-level deck design?
Two-level deck designs offer several benefits, including maximizing space utilization, creating distinct zones for various activities, enhancing visual appeal, and providing flexibility in design and functionality. They can also accommodate sloped or uneven terrain more effectively than single-level decks.
How can I incorporate greenery into a two-level deck design?
Greenery can enhance the ambiance and beauty of a two-level deck. Consider integrating planters, vertical gardens, or built-in planter boxes into the design. Choose plants that thrive in your climate and require minimal maintenance, such as succulents, ornamental grasses, and flowering perennials. Incorporating greenery adds a touch of nature and helps create a relaxing outdoor oasis.
What are some design tips for maximizing space on a two-level deck?
To optimize space on a two-level deck, consider multifunctional furniture and under deck features, such as storage benches or built-in seating with hidden compartments. Utilize vertical space by adding shelves, hanging planters, or installing a pergola for shade and privacy. Incorporate lighting strategically to extend the usability of the deck into the evening hours. Additionally, using a cohesive color scheme and streamlined design elements can visually expand the space.
How can these deck designs be customized to fit different backyard sizes and layouts?
These deck designs can be easily customized to fit different backyard sizes and layouts by adjusting their dimensions and configurations. For smaller yards, the decks can be made compact, maximizing space utilization without compromising on functionality. For larger yards, the designs can be expanded or interconnected to create a multi-level deck system, providing ample room for various activities.
Incorporating features like built-in seating, planters, or fire pits can add versatility and enhance the overall appeal of any backyard deck design. Thus, it is crucial for these deck designs to offer customization options to meet diverse backyard requirements.
Leave a reply