Top Deck Trends For 2023

We are a locally-owned company servicing new and existing decks across Southern Wisconsin including: Madison, Fitchburg, Middleton, Waunakee and more. If you live in the area and are looking to invest in a new outdoor living space this year, here are eight decking trends that will dominate 2023.

1. Sustainability

Many homeowners are now opting for eco-friendly materials when building or upgrading their outdoor spaces, including decks.Decks built using eco-friendly materials such as recycled plastics, reclaimed wood, or bamboo will become more popular as people become more environmentally conscious.

Recycled plastics, for example, can be used to make decking materials that look and feel just like natural wood, but are more durable and longer-lasting. Reclaimed wood, on the other hand, is salvaged from old buildings and is often rich in character and history, adding a unique touch to any deck.

Bamboo is another excellent material for eco-friendly decks. This fast-growing, highly sustainable plant is often used as an alternative to hardwoods, which are often sourced from rainforests and other sensitive ecosystems.

In addition to the environmental benefits of using eco-friendly materials, these materials also offer a range of other advantages. They are often more durable and longer-lasting than traditional materials, which means they require less maintenance and upkeep over time. Additionally, they are often resistant to insect infestations and moisture damage, ensuring that your deck will last for years to come.

2. Multi-level Decks

Multi-level decks that offer different areas for seating, cooking, and entertaining will continue to be a trend for their versatility and ability to maximize outdoor space.

These multi-level decks allow homeowners to separate their outdoor living spaces, creating distinct areas for dining, lounging, and socializing. By incorporating different levels, homeowners can also take advantage of their property’s unique features and landscape, such as a sloping yard or scenic views. Multi-level decks are an ideal choice for homeowners seeking to maximize their outdoor space while creating a functional and stylish outdoor living environment.

Additionally, multi-level decks offer a range of design options, allowing homeowners to build out their outdoor space to suit their needs and preferences. For example, they can include built-in seating, BBQ areas, fire pits, and even outdoor kitchens.

Finally, these decks offer a practical solution for maximizing outdoor space. By adding multiple levels, homeowners can fit more features into their outdoor area, while still leaving plenty of room for plants, landscaping, and other outdoor amenities.

3. Minimalist Design

Clean lines, simple shapes, and a neutral color palette will dominate deck designs as homeowners opt for a minimalistic and modern look.

Materials like composite decking, stainless steel railing systems, and glass panels will also be popular choices in creating a sleek and clean appearance.

Additionally, homeowners will focus on maximizing their outdoor space by incorporating features like built-in seating, planters, and fire pits to make their deck a functional and inviting extension of their home.

While trends may come and go, the minimalist and modern deck design is here to stay, offering a timeless and sophisticated aesthetic for any outdoor space.

4. Lighting

Smart lighting options that allow homeowners to control outdoor lighting via their smartphones, motion sensors, or voice commands will be increasingly popular for convenience, safety, and ambiance.

Additionally, smart lighting can help reduce energy consumption and save money on electricity bills by allowing homeowners to schedule when their lights turn on and off, and adjust brightness levels.

Features such as geofencing can automatically turn on outdoor lights when a homeowner arrives home, while motion sensors can detect movement and trigger lights to turn on for added security. Voice commands through smart assistants such as Amazon Alexa or Google Home can control outdoor lighting without needing to physically interact with a switch or smartphone.

Overall, smart lighting offers a range of benefits for homeowners looking to enhance their outdoor spaces while also providing convenience, safety, and energy efficiency. As technology continues to improve, we can expect to see more advanced features and integrations in this area.

5. Outdoor Kitchens

As more people seek to extend their living spaces outdoors, outdoor kitchens will continue to be a popular addition to decks. Expect to see more built-in grills, countertop space, and storage solutions.

Other outdoor kitchen features that homeowners may consider adding to their decks include:

1. Pizza ovens: These are perfect for entertaining or family pizza night.
2. Beverage center: A beverage center with a built-in bar is another popular outdoor kitchen addition. You can include a small refrigerator, ice maker, and sink for convenient access to cold drinks and cocktails.
3. Lighting: Outdoor kitchens need good lighting for safety and functionality, and there are many options available. Homeowners may opt for overhead lighting, task lighting, and even accent lighting to create ambiance.
4. Seating and dining areas: Outdoor kitchens should be designed to accommodate guests. Homeowners can create seating and dining areas near the outdoor kitchen to provide comfortable places for guests to eat and relax.
5. Fire features: Fireplaces or fire pits offer warmth and ambiance, which can make outdoor kitchens more inviting. They can also be used for cooking or roasting marshmallows.

Overall, the trend for outdoor kitchens shows no signs of slowing down, and it’s easy to see why. These versatile spaces make it easy to cook and entertain while enjoying the great outdoors.

6. Privacy Features

With more people spending time at home, privacy features like privacy screens, pergolas, and trellises will be essential for creating a cozy and secluded outdoor space.

Privacy screens and trellises can provide privacy from neighbors or busy streets, while pergolas can create a shaded and relaxing retreat. These features are especially important as people spend more time at home and look for ways to make the most of their outdoor spaces. Additionally, they can improve the aesthetic value of a backyard while enhancing the overall value of your property. Ultimately, privacy features are both practical and stylish ways to create cozy and secluded outdoor spaces that provide a necessary retreat from the world.

7. Fire Features 

Fire pits, fireplaces, and other fire features will be popular for their warmth, ambiance, and ability to extend the outdoor season into colder months. Popular fire features for patios or decks that we expect to be trending include:

1. Fire table: A fire table is a table with a built-in fire feature. It is perfect for outdoor dining and socializing. The fire table can also function as a focal point for your outdoor living space.
2. Fire pit: A fire pit is a classic fire feature that can add warmth and ambiance to your patio or deck. It can be a great spot for roasting marshmallows or just enjoying a cozy fire on a cool night.
3. Fireplace: A fireplace is a larger fire feature that can provide warmth and also add a decorative element to your outdoor living space. It is a great option if you have a larger deck or patio.
4. Fire bowls: Fire bowls are smaller fire features that can be placed on tables or pedestals. They are a great option if you want to add a fire feature but don’t have a lot of space.

8. Customized Touches

Homeowners will be looking for ways to make their decks unique to their style and needs. Expect to see customized features like hot tubs, built-in seating, and personalized decor elements.

We continue to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and designs to stay relevant in the Madison area. A new home deck will quickly become the center of all your summer fun and will be enjoyed by the entire family – from simple things like cookouts with friends and family to relaxing after a long day on Lake Mendota.

Quality of work and customer care is what we do. Find out how easy it is to work with Madison’s best deck builders, Decksperts. Get in touch with us to talk about your next decking project. 

Call us today or fill out our contact form to get a quote on your Madison area deck project today!