Homeowners in Michigan are always looking for ways to make their outdoor spaces both functional and stylish, but it can be challenging to decide which trends and features will truly stand the test of time. Whether you're dreaming of a multi-level deck for entertaining or seeking low-maintenance materials that can handle Michigan's unpredictable weather, knowing what’s on the horizon can help you make confident decisions.
At Custom Built Design & Remodeling, we’ve spent years helping homeowners in the Greater Lansing area create decks that blend beauty, functionality, and durability. From using sustainable materials like Trex to designing unique outdoor living spaces, we stay ahead of trends to ensure our clients get the best results for their investment.
In this article, we’ll explore the deck design trends we expect to see in 2025, including bold color choices, multi-level layouts, and privacy solutions. Whether you’re planning to build or remodel, these insights will help you create a deck that fits your lifestyle and enhances your home for years to come:
- Sustainable Materials
- Multi-Level Decks
- Outdoor Kitchens and Entertainment Spaces
- Integrated Lighting and Technology
- Bold Color Choices
- Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Flow
- Natural Elements and Organic Shapes
- Pergolas and Covered Spaces
- Low-Maintenance Features
- Privacy Solutions
1. Sustainable Materials
Sustainability continues to take center stage, and Trex composite decking remains our go-to option. Made from recycled materials, Trex offers an eco-friendly solution without compromising on style or durability. Their updated recipe ensures:
- A more natural, wood-like appearance.
- Greater resistance to scratches.
- Longevity that surpasses traditional decking options.
Trex provides a sustainable and low-maintenance choice, perfect for Michigan’s climate.
2. Multi-Level Decks
Multi-level decks are gaining popularity, particularly for homes on challenging terrain or with scenic views. These designs:
- Create distinct zones for lounging, dining, and entertaining.
- Enhance architectural interest and the overall aesthetic.
- Preserve views, adding a lower level for furniture and umbrellas to keep the view unobstructed from your home.
While stunning, multi-level decks require more framing, steps, and railings, making them a more expensive option. However, the added functionality and visual appeal often justify the investment.
3. Outdoor Kitchens and Entertainment Spaces
Outdoor kitchens and entertainment areas are trending for those who love hosting. Popular features include:
- Grills and pizza ovens for year-round use.
- Fire pits with built-in seating for cozy gatherings.
- Enhanced landscaping to complement the deck.
While full outdoor kitchens are less common in Michigan due to seasonal limitations and the need for winterization, patios often serve as the base for grills and fire pits. Pairing a multi-level deck with a patio creates a safer, more functional setup for these features.
4. Integrated Lighting and Technology
Deck lighting has become an essential feature for both safety and style. We frequently install:
- Solar-powered stair riser lights for nighttime visibility.
- Flush-mounted lights on decking boards to add architectural interest.
These features are simple to maintain and enhance your deck’s usability after dark. For a seamless look, consider integrating lighting as part of your overall design.
5. Bold Color Choices
Darker colors, like the Trex Transcend Lineage collection, are leading the way in 2025. These dual-tone shades offer:
- A wood-grain appearance with classic and vintage vibes.
- A more inviting and lived-in feel.
- Compatibility with wooded or forested surroundings.
Popular choices, like Jasper, bring depth and character to outdoor spaces, moving away from lighter, washed-out tones.
6. Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Flow
Creating a seamless indoor-outdoor flow is a popular design choice, especially in Michigan, where outdoor living is enjoyed during the warmer months. Since Michigan’s weather can be harsh, with cold winters and fluctuating temperatures, bi-folding glass doors are not always a practical option.
Instead, sliding or hinged doors are often used to connect the indoors to outdoor spaces like decks or patios. Here are more ideas to create that indoor-outdoor flow:
- Screened porches connecting the house to the deck.
- Continuous decking board colors for visual flow.
- Border accents for subtle contrast and definition.
This approach balances functionality with aesthetics, ensuring your deck feels like an extension of your home.
7. Natural Elements and Organic Shapes
Nature-inspired designs are making waves, especially in lakefront homes where decks are built around existing trees. For Lansing homeowners, movable flower pots are a practical and versatile choice. Additionally:
- Built-in planters with native foliage can double as safety features near stairways.
- Organic shapes and thoughtful landscaping create a harmonious connection with the environment.
8. Pergolas and Covered Spaces
For added comfort and shade, pergolas are a sought-after feature that can transform your deck into a cozy and functional retreat. Aluminum pergolas are especially popular due to their superior durability, resistance to weather, and low-maintenance appeal.
These structures provide shelter while enhancing the aesthetic of your deck, offering a range of customization options:
- Durability: Aluminum pergolas resist weather damage, won’t rot, and don’t require frequent staining or sealing.
- Custom Features: Choose from integrated lighting, retractable canopies, or privacy screens to enhance functionality.
- Style Versatility: Pair with climbing plants for a natural look or opt for a minimalist design for a modern vibe.
- Seasonal Comfort: Provides shade in summer and can shelter outdoor furniture from rain or light snow.
9. Low-Maintenance Features
In 2025, homeowners are seeking deck features that allow them to spend less time on upkeep and more time enjoying their outdoor spaces. Composite decking is a cornerstone of this trend, thanks to its unparalleled durability and resistance to staining, fading, and mold. Combined with other low-maintenance options, it ensures your deck looks great for years to come with minimal effort.
More popular low-maintenance features include:
- Composite Railings: Resistant to rust and weathering, composite railings require virtually no upkeep compared to traditional wood or iron options. They offer a sleek, modern aesthetic while standing up to Michigan's changing seasons.
- Composite Fascia Boards: These protect the edges of your deck and maintain their appearance without the need for regular staining or painting.
- Built-in Drainage Systems: Keep the space beneath your deck dry and functional without constant cleaning or repairs.
- Self-Sustaining Lighting Options: Solar-powered lights for stairs and decking eliminate the need for electrical wiring and are simple to maintain while providing added safety and ambiance.
10. Privacy Solutions
Deck privacy solutions are becoming increasingly important for homeowners who want to relax and entertain comfortably in their outdoor spaces. Metal privacy screens are a standout option, offering both functionality and a customizable design. These screens are available in a variety of patterns and finishes, allowing you to choose something that complements your deck's aesthetic.
Additional privacy solutions include:
- Living Privacy Walls: Incorporate vertical gardens with climbing plants or trellises to create natural barriers that add greenery to your space.
- Integrated Planters: These can be strategically placed to block views from neighbors while adding beauty and functionality to your deck.
- Lattice Panels: An affordable and classic choice, lattice can be used to create a partial or full barrier around specific sections of your deck.
- Pergolas with Drapes: Aluminum pergolas can be paired with weather-resistant curtains to give you the flexibility of opening up the space or closing it off for privacy and shade.
Next Steps to Building or Remodeling Your Michigan Deck
Deck trends in 2025, like sustainable materials and bold designs, offer the perfect mix of style, function, and durability for your outdoor space.
With careful planning and expert craftsmanship, your deck can enhance your lifestyle and stand the test of Michigan’s climate.
At Custom Built Design & Remodeling, we specialize in creating decks that blend beauty, functionality, and lasting quality.
Contact us today to start planning your dream deck—our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
Now that you know more about Michigan deck design trends to expect in 2025, let’s explore how much lighting and composite decks cost and Trex’s high-quality composite lines:
- How Much Does Deck Lighting Cost in Michigan? - Discover how much Trex and other deck lighting options cost and what affects the estimate.
- How Much Do Composite Decks Cost in Lansing, Michigan? - An overview of how much your Lansing composite deck will cost and the factors that will influence your price.
- Comparing Trex Lineage, Transcend, Select, and Enhance Composite Decking Lines - Explore our thorough comparison of Trex’s most common composite decking options, including cost, colors, and benefits.
