If you could craft your ideal two-level escape, what would it look like?
Ready to spark some inspiration?
Add a Cozy Fire Pit: Gather, Warm Up, and Unwind
There’s something magical about gathering around a fire pit as dusk falls—stories flow, laughter echoes, and worries seem to melt away in the glow. But beyond the romance, it’s important to plan carefully so your fire feature is both dazzling and safe. When I worked with the Morrison family, we made sure their fire pit zone felt welcoming for adults but also safe for their young twins, with smart railings and a generous buffer zone.
Here are a few essentials to consider if you’re thinking of making a fire pit the heart of your split-level deck:
- Choose a spot with good ventilation and away from overhanging branches or structures
- Opt for natural stone, concrete, or metal surrounds for durability and style
- Always keep a bucket of sand or water nearby just in case
The crackle, the warmth, the spark—it isn’t just an accessory, it’s an atmosphere.
So, are you envisioning late-night s’mores, or perhaps a hot-chocolate moment under the stars? Let your space reflect the rituals you love most!
How Can Lighting Turn Your Deck Into Pure Magic?
Lighting truly shapes your outdoor experience. Layering subtle fairy lights with bold lanterns or sleek built-in LEDs can transform any split-level deck into a setting that feels both enchanting and personal. A client of mine once said, “Ashley, now every evening feels like a special occasion!” after we lit up her deck’s steps and railings.
It’s the art of playing with shadows and glow. When choosing your fixtures, consider both the ambience you want for late-night chats and the safety you need for navigating multiple levels. A little mood lighting goes a long way—why not experiment to discover what feels just right for your style?
Surprise Yourself!
Sometimes, the most memorable outdoor spaces have a dash of the unexpected. Think of features that make people pause and smile—a swing tucked in a sunny corner, a hammock for lazy afternoons, or a sculptural art piece greeting guests as they step onto the deck.
A pop of playfulness can be the icing on the cake.
Linda and James, dear clients of mine, were absolutely surprised by the hammock nook we integrated beneath the upper deck. Now, it’s their “hidden getaway,” a spot they never expected but always enjoy. Want to create your own conversation-starter? You could add built-in planters with bold foliage, a playful nook for reading, or even a secret bench behind a lush screen.
The best decks tell a story—what’s yours?
Design with Different Levels: Transforming Spaces with Depth and Interest
There’s a certain magic in playing with different levels on a deck. It’s more than just a design choice—adding height variations creates depth, visual excitement, and fresh ways to use your outdoor haven. Each level becomes a new stage in the story, guiding your eye and your movement.
Imagine your deck not as a flat surface, but as a collection of layers—each one welcoming, each one offering something unique.
I once worked with a young family who wanted to create “adventure zones” for their children, alongside peaceful spots for grown-ups. By raising one area slightly—just a step or two—we created a safe play platform, while the adults enjoyed an evening lounge just below. The beauty of using multiple levels is how you can subtly define spaces, without ever building a wall. You get seamless transition zones, natural flow, and endless options for styling. Want a cozy dining nook or an open sun deck? Just adjust the elevation.
Sometimes, a little height goes a long way.
Privacy Isn’t Boring—Get Creative with Your Deck!
Strong privacy solutions don’t mean fencing yourself in! Think screens, climbing plants, or a line of decorative panels. With just one clever addition, you can turn any area into a personal retreat—without sacrificing style.
There’s nothing like relaxing outdoors, surrounded by greenery and dappled light.
Sometimes, I’ll help clients layer tall planters along a deck edge. In the end, it’s all about shaping a space that feels just for you.
Can Color Transform Your Deck Experience?
Bringing color into your deck isn’t just about aesthetics—it completely transforms the mood. I always encourage clients to embrace bold choices, whether it’s through cushions, potted plants, or a painted accent wall. If you’re nervous about going bright, remember: a splash of color goes a long way.
Here are three playful ways to introduce color outside:
- Add throw pillows in unexpected patterns
- Arrange pots in various shades, clustered together for impact
- Roll out a vibrant outdoor rug as an instant focal point
Suddenly, the whole space has a cheerful energy that draws you in.
Last spring, I worked with a couple hoping to boost their curb appeal. We landed on a palette of sunlit yellows and deep ocean blues. The result? Their deck became a neighborhood favorite, bursting with personality and warmth.
How to Make Your Deck Feel Like an Extension of the Outdoors
Your deck doesn’t have to be just another platform tacked onto your home. When you thoughtfully blend it with the landscape—using native plants, natural stone, and earthy wood tones—it starts to feel like part of the garden itself. I always recommend choosing materials that echo the colors and textures you see in your yard. This is how you can create a seamless flow between your indoor and outdoor spaces.
Who doesn’t want their deck to feel truly part of their garden? I once worked with a wonderful couple who dreamed of making their split-level deck melt into a lush, sloping backyard. We surrounded the lower levels with native grasses and tucked in fragrant lavender along the edges. Over time, the lines between “deck” and “yard” simply faded away. The result? A living, breathing retreat where every step leads naturally into the next outdoor room.
The magic happens when you stop seeing the deck as a separate area—and start seeing it as a bridge into your own little world.
Spa Bliss!
Imagine dipping into a bubbling hot tub, steam rising, and the stars above—all without leaving your own backyard. If you’re looking for the ultimate luxury, installing a hot tub on your split-level deck is a game changer. It’s a personal escape just steps from your door.
Honestly, is there anything better than unwinding with a soak at the end of a long day?
Why Stop at One Material?
Blending different materials is one of my favorite ways to give a deck energy and personality. When you layer diverse textures, the whole space comes alive with visual intrigue and character.
- Wood brings warmth and a timeless feel to any deck, grounding your space in natural beauty.
- Metal—especially powder-coated steel or iron—adds modern lines and durability, and it pairs beautifully with soft outdoor fabrics.
- Glass railings or panels can open up views and let in the light, creating a sense of openness and *airy sophistication*.
I once guided a client through a split-level makeover, weaving composite decking with stone insets and sleek steel accents. The transformation was dramatic—the deck became as dynamic as her family’s lifestyle. Why settle for one material when you can create something truly unique?
10. Create Distinct Zones for Living, Lounging, and Gathering
Every time I design a deck, I love to think of it as an outdoor home—one with rooms under the sky. When you thoughtfully shape distinct zones for lounging, dining, and celebrating, suddenly your deck feels purposeful and inviting for every kind of gathering.
Breaking your space into individual zones doesn’t require major renovations. Even a small, simple deck can be transformed with strategic choices: arrange planters as gentle boundaries, lay down an outdoor rug for a “cozy corner,” or use string lights to set a dining area aglow. Purposeful design can carve out a private retreat right where you need it most. Will your space host lazy afternoon readings, lively dinners, or a quiet morning with coffee?
I’ll never forget helping a family with both young kids and grandparents create zones for play, relaxation, and shared meals. The result? Everyone felt right at home—no matter their age or need.
Creating intentional zones is how a deck becomes a stage for your life.
And isn’t that what outdoor living is all about?
11. Incorporate Stairs with Style
Stairs can be an absolute design feature—not simply a connector between levels. Why not turn those steps into a focal point? Mixing natural wood treads with sleek steel, or adding hidden lighting, gives your deck an unexpected twist.
Ever thought about adding planters along your stairs for a soft touch? I find even the smallest details—like a contrasting handrail—can make all the difference.
Let your stairs surprise guests!
12. Integrate Natural Elements
When you let your deck embrace nature’s palette, the whole space just breathes easier.
- Mix reclaimed wood with local stone for an organic flow—no two decks are the same!
- Add clusters of potted ferns, grasses, or trailing vines along railings and corners.
- Try a live edge table as your outdoor centerpiece for that extra touch of wild beauty.
How could your outdoor space feel more rooted in nature? Sometimes, the simplest materials tell the richest stories.
Comfort is Key
When shaping an inviting outdoor haven, I always put comfort first. Think plush seating, generous throws, and weather-resistant pillows that call out to you, inviting you to settle in and stay awhile.
After all, isn’t a deck meant for those lingering afternoon escapes?
One of my favorite projects was with a retired couple who dreamed of a cozy nook for morning reading and sunset chats. We layered plush cushions in warm earth tones, added a couple of oversized throws, and even incorporated a small ottoman for tired feet. Don’t shy away from mixing textures—soft knits, breezy linen, and outdoor velvet can work wonders together. The result? A space so “sink-in soft,” you’ll find yourself making excuses to step outside, even on chilly days.
Want to truly enjoy your deck? Surround yourself with your creature comforts and you’ll never look back.
How High Can You Grow?
When space is tight, vertical gardening lets you add lushness without crowding underfoot. Have you ever tried to train a fragrant jasmine vine up a trellis, or suspended petite herb planters along your railing? Here are two ways to reach new heights:
- Install a wall-mounted trellis for climbing plants
- Hang staggered planters to layer color and texture
On decks, the sky’s the limit—look up, and let green fill your view!
