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How to Create Multi-Level Outdoor Living Spaces Blending Decks and Hardscapes

By: Kristiann Vargas on October 24th, 2024

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How to Create Multi-Level Outdoor Living Spaces Blending Decks and Hardscapes

Retaining Wall  |  Retaining Walls  |  Outdoor Living  |  Patio  |  Steps  |  Pavers  |  Decks  |  Project Design  |  Raised Patio  |  Pergolas  |  Walkway  |  Hardscaping

Decks and Hardscapes in Harmony: How to Create Multi-Level Outdoor Living Spaces

When designing the perfect outdoor living area, many homeowners wonder if their existing deck will interfere with the vision of a beautifully integrated hardscape. Good news! Not only can decks and hardscapes work together, but they can also create dynamic, multi-level spaces that enhance both the functionality and aesthetics of your yard.

This guide will walk you through how to make the most of your deck and hardscape combination, offering practical solutions for integrating these elements seamlessly into your outdoor living space.

 

Resurface or Build New: Cost-Effective Deck Solutions

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If you already have a deck, you don't necessarily need to tear it down to make room for a hardscape. Resurfacing your existing deck is an excellent way to update its appearance, improve durability, and save on the cost of constructing entirely new outdoor platforms. Resurfacing involves replacing the surface boards, which can give your deck a fresh look while keeping the existing structure intact.

For homeowners looking for a brand-new feel, building a new deck allows you to tailor the design to fit your outdoor vision. This includes choosing materials that complement your hardscape and creating a layout that enhances the natural flow between indoor and outdoor spaces.

 

Benefits of Multi-Level Designs

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Decks offer the unique advantage of elevation. This gives you the ability to work with multi-level designs that connect different areas of your yard. For instance, a deck attached to your home can lead down to a hardscaped patio or pathway, creating distinct outdoor zones for relaxation, dining, or entertainment. These levels can help define spaces, making your backyard feel larger and more versatile without requiring significant changes to the landscape.

Stepping down from a deck into a cozy patio or garden not only provides visual interest but also creates functional separation between areas, making the space feel more dynamic and inviting.

 

Choosing Deck Materials That Complement Your Hardscape

One of the keys to seamlessly integrating a deck with your hardscape is selecting complementary materials. Modern decking materials come in a variety of styles, colors, and finishes that can match or contrast with your chosen pavers or natural stone.

Here are some material options to consider:

  • Wood: A classic choice for decks, wood offers a natural look that can beautifully complement stone or brick hardscapes. Cedar and redwood are popular for their durability and resistance to decay.

  • Composite: These low-maintenance materials mimic the look of wood while offering greater resistance to fading, scratching, and moisture damage. Composite decks come in a range of colors and textures, making them an excellent option for long-lasting beauty.

  • PVC: Known for being highly durable and resistant to weather, PVC decking requires minimal maintenance and comes in a wide array of colors.

Selecting materials that align with the tones and textures of your hardscape can create a cohesive design that feels unified, no matter which section of your outdoor space you’re enjoying.

 

Maximizing the Functionality of Your Deck

Cartier Trellis 4-19-24Your deck can be much more than a platform—it’s a functional space that can be customized to suit your lifestyle. Here are some ways to expand its use:

  • Outdoor Kitchens: Incorporating a built-in grill or full kitchen on your deck makes it easier to entertain and enjoy outdoor dining without having to go back inside.
  • Lighting: Adding ambient lighting can enhance the atmosphere and allow you to use your deck in the evenings, creating a welcoming glow for nighttime gatherings.
  • Pergolas or Shade Structures: These features provide shelter from the sun while adding architectural interest to your deck. They can also serve as support for climbing plants, adding greenery and charm to the space.
  • Water Features: A small fountain or waterfall incorporated near your deck can bring a sense of calm and relaxation to your outdoor living area.

 

Harmonizing Decks with Other Hardscape Features

To ensure a cohesive design, think about how your deck interacts with other elements in your landscape. Patios, walkways, retaining walls, and garden beds can all be part of the same design language. A well-thought-out plan can make your yard feel like a unified, functional space rather than a collection of disconnected areas.

For example:

  • Patios and Decks: A hardscaped patio at ground level can complement an elevated deck, offering a natural transition between spaces. You can use similar pavers or natural stone to tie the two together, creating a seamless flow from one level to the next.
  • Retaining Walls: If your yard has slopes, a deck combined with retaining walls can help manage the landscape while providing additional usable space. The walls can be built with materials that harmonize with your decking, adding a structural element that’s both practical and attractive.
  • Walkways: Connecting different levels of your yard with hardscaped paths—whether made from gravel, stone, or pavers—helps create a sense of continuity. These walkways guide movement through the space while blending with the overall design.

 

Planning Your Multi-Level Outdoor Space

When planning a multi-level outdoor space, it’s essential to think about both aesthetics and functionality. Consider how you want to use each area and how the flow between spaces will work.

For example, if your deck is used for outdoor dining, you might place a hardscaped fire pit or seating area on a lower level, creating distinct zones for different activities. You may also want to think about accessibility—adding wide steps or a ramp can ensure that all levels of your outdoor space are easy to navigate.

 

Creating a Seamless Outdoor Experience

By thoughtfully combining decks and hardscapes, you can create an outdoor living space that feels both expansive and cohesive. Whether you choose to resurface an existing deck or build a new one, integrating it with hardscaped patios, walkways, and other features can add depth and functionality to your yard.

Bahler Brothers can help carefully plan your outdoor space to become a multi-level haven that serves as an extension of your home, offering comfort, beauty, and a connection to nature.