Decks can be small or large, unfinished, stained, sealed or painted, but they must complement the architecture of the house and make the best use of the landscape plan. This house in red cedar is a good example, with its multi-level platforms and like coloring. 

While exotic woods are more durable, they can also be more difficult to work with.  This rooftop deck with outdoor shower is made of ipe, also called Brazilian walnut, which Bob Vila calls “an extremely dense material and also a renewable product—one of the best choices for outdoor decking.”

Remember that a deck is part of the house and the landscape, so make sure it meets your requirements for function and aesthetics. This beautifully weathered ipe wood deck, designed by landscape architect David Rolston, provides a natural extension from the indoors out and complements the architecture of the house.

If you happen to live on a lake, particularly one as beautiful as this, a deck is not only desirable but a "must have." The deck here—of weathered, western red cedar—takes full advantage of its hilltop setting, offering exquisite views on multiple levels and stairs leading down to the water's edge. 

This generous western cedar deck is made for outdoor living. Not only is the choice of wood a smart one for decks, but it can be easily maintained from season to season with a fresh coat of sealer or if you prefer, left to weather naturally.

Pool surrounds don't need to be stone as this beautiful wood installation proves.  Made of durable, weather-resistant cedar it frames the pool in an elegant way and, with the absence of railings, provides unobstructed views beyond. Clean, beautiful and inviting.

A raised, floating wood deck is the perfect complement for this multi-level contemporary home designed by architect Gardner Mohr.  It offers a generous extension of the indoor space while adding a modern architectural element to the landscape.

Add some visual interest to your home and landscape with a deck that goes against traditional convention.  This curvilinear installation not only adds a dramatic look to the house, but provides expansive areas for outdoor living with multiple levels and built-in seating.

The raised ipe deck of this contemporary home, by Chicco Design, extends over the pool's edge giving it the appearance of a floating dock. It serves to anchor an area for sunbathing and entertaining while complementing the modern aesthetic of the house. 

A wood deck can turn any backyard from ordinary to extraordinary. This multi-level design not only offers expansive areas for outdoor entertaining, but provides easy access from the second floor to the backyard. The paneled sides add a finished look to the installation.

As beautiful as natural wood is, a painted deck can be a real "stunner" as well.  The deck here is painted the same color as the house to provide a unified look and a seamless transition from the outside to the indoors.

A deck with even a small footprint can be grand and impressive, like this one that leads from a sauna to a hot tub. The laid stone wall complements the weathered coloring of the deck and provides privacy and natural beauty.

Composite decking materials can give you design options that were unavailable until now. This unique inlaid leaf design was created with the Trex Custom Curve Heating and Bending Solution. A heater and forming table make a motif like this straightforward and utterly attainable.

This two-toned, multi-level deck makes a dramatic statement with its sweeping top railing, that descends down to a circular lower level. Built in benches ring a fire pit that can't help but be the neighborhood hot spot.

This composite deck steps down to a sunken paver patio, complete with fire pit. The surrounding high backed benches provide seating without furniture, as well as privacy from the neighbor's yard.

A hardwood parquet design makes an elegant backdrop for this city roof deck. This finished wood deck balances durability and style, and just begs to be danced on.

The pergola of this deck provides shade while the lattice wood wall panels provide privacy from neighbors. And both sit atop a composite decking surface, proving that you can mix natural and engineered materials to great effect.

If you're interested in more ideas for the backyard, consider:

Budget-Friendly Backyard Makeovers

"Illuminating" Ideas for Backyard Lighting

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