Looking for the perfect deck design to enhance your Northern Michigan home? Whether you’re by the water or nestled in the woods, your deck should be a space that complements your lifestyle and makes the most of the stunning scenery around you.
It’s essential to ensure your deck will not only stand the test of time but also offer the perfect place to relax and entertain. Custom Built specializes in creating outdoor spaces that blend beauty, function, and durability. With decades of deck-building experience, we understand the unique demands of the region’s climate and landscapes.
In this article, we’ll explore the top six deck designs that will help you enjoy everything Northern Michigan has to offer, from breathtaking views to functional outdoor living spaces. Let us guide you in creating the ideal deck for your home:
- Multi-Level Decks: Maximizing Views and Space
- Lakeside Decks: Embracing Waterfront Living
- Wraparound Decks: Expanding Outdoor Access
- Entertainer’s Paradise Decks: Host in Style
- Cozy Fireside Decks: Year-Round Enjoyment
- Integrated Hot Tub Decks: Relaxation at Its Best
1. Multi-Level Decks: Maximizing Views and Space
PC: Ventures
For homes on slopes or waterfronts, multi-level decks offer a smart way to optimize uneven terrain while adding visual interest to your property. This design creates tiers, each serving different purposes, such as dining, lounging, or hosting.
Key Features:
- Enhanced Views: Thin, see-through railings, like glass or cable options, ensure your water or wooded views remain unobstructed.
- Utilizing Slopes: Multi-tiers make the most of sloped properties, reducing the need for a massive substructure and adding character to your outdoor space.
- Strategic Positioning: By placing lower tiers below windows, you maintain a clear line of sight from inside the home, maximizing your enjoyment of the scenery.
2. Lakeside Decks: Embracing Waterfront Living
PC: TimberTech
Waterfront properties are prime real estate in Northern Michigan, and your deck should make the most of these premium views. A well-designed lakeside deck integrates seamlessly with the natural landscape, ensuring the view is the star.
Key Features:
- Storage Solutions: Incorporate built-in storage for essentials like beach towels and life vests.
- Adaptive Design: Build close to the water with a multi-tiered layout to complement the landscape.
- Entertainment Options: Add outdoor kitchens, comfortable seating, and dining spaces to create the ultimate lakeside retreat.
3. Wraparound Decks: Expanding Outdoor Access
PC: Houzz
Wraparound decks provide an elegant solution for connecting multiple entry points to your home while expanding your outdoor living space.
Key Features:
- Sun-Following Design: Position your deck to capture the sunrise or sunset, depending on your location.
- Improved Flow: Perfect for homes with two or more access points, reducing traffic through the main entrance.
- Ample Space: With more square footage, you’ll have room for relaxing, entertaining, and soaking in the scenery.
4. Entertainer’s Paradise Decks: Host in Style
If entertaining is your passion, a deck designed with hosting in mind is a must. From outdoor grills and ranges to integrated technology, the right features can transform your deck into a hub for gatherings.
Key Features:
- Functional Seating: Include dining tables, stools along the railing, and cozy nooks.
- Bar and Lighting: Add cocktail railings, full bars, and strategic lighting to set the mood for any occasion.
- Entertainment Systems: Weatherproof TVs and sound systems let you host movie nights or game-day watch parties outdoors.
5. Cozy Fireside Decks: Year-Round Enjoyment
There’s nothing like gathering around a fire on a crisp Northern Michigan evening. Fireside decks offer warmth and charm for family and friends.
Key Features:
- Gathering Space: Arrange seating around the fire to encourage conversation and relaxation.
- Smokeless Features: Incorporate smokeless fire pits to create an inclusive space for everyone to enjoy.
- Fire Pit Options: Choose from built-in stone fire pits or portable propane models, ensuring safety and durability.
6. Integrated Hot Tub Decks: Relaxation at Its Best
A hot tub deck provides luxury and functionality, but proper planning is essential to ensure safety and usability.
Key Features:
- Substructure Support: Hot tubs require reinforced substructures to handle their weight.
- Ease of Access: Design steps to allow for easy entry while leaving enough room for the cover to operate smoothly.
- Convenient Features: Include towel hooks, storage drawers for chemicals, and even a foot wash for post-soak cleanup.
8 Things to Consider Before Building or Remodeling Your Deck
Building or remodeling a deck is an exciting project that can enhance your outdoor living space. However, before you begin, there are several important factors to consider to ensure your deck is functional, safe, durable, and aligned with your vision. Here are key things to keep in mind before starting your deck project.
1. Budget and Costs
Start by setting a clear budget. Decks come in a variety of styles, materials, and sizes, all of which impact cost. Consider both the initial investment and long-term maintenance expenses, especially for materials like wood versus low-maintenance composite decking. A defined budget helps guide your decisions and prevent surprises.
2. Local Building Codes and Permits
Each municipality has specific building codes and permit requirements for deck construction. Check with local authorities or a contractor to ensure your deck complies with zoning regulations, height restrictions, and safety standards. Failure to obtain necessary permits could result in fines or rework.
3. Deck Size and Layout
Consider how you plan to use your deck. Do you want a small, cozy space or a large area for entertaining? The size and layout should reflect your needs. Homes on slopes can benefit from multi-level decks for better views, while wraparound decks offer access from multiple entry points.
4. Materials and Durability
The materials you choose affect your deck’s appearance, maintenance, and longevity. Traditional wood requires regular upkeep, while composite decking is low-maintenance and durable but may have a higher upfront cost. Weigh the pros and cons of materials like PVC, aluminum, and exotic hardwoods before making a choice.
5. Climate and Weather Considerations
Northern Michigan's weather, including heavy snowfalls and humidity, requires deck materials that can withstand the elements. Composite and pressure-treated wood are more resilient than traditional wood in wet conditions, while sturdy railings and durable decking can endure freezing and thawing cycles.
6. Privacy and Views
Think about privacy and the views you want to enjoy. Privacy screens or strategic landscaping can shield you from neighbors or busy streets, while see-through railings like glass or cable systems can preserve scenic views. Design your deck to maximize your surroundings.
7. Maintenance and Upkeep
Consider how much time you're willing to spend on deck upkeep. Traditional wood may require sealing or staining every few years, while composite materials typically need only occasional cleaning. Low-maintenance options like composite or PVC decking might be ideal if you want minimal upkeep.
8. Purpose and Functionality
What will your deck be used for? Dining, entertaining, or relaxing? Will you need space for a hot tub, fire pit, or outdoor kitchen? Identifying the purpose early on helps you decide on layout, size, materials, and additional features like support for heavy structures.
Next Steps to Building or Remodeling Your Northern Michigan Deck
The right deck design can transform your outdoor space, providing the perfect spot to enjoy Northern Michigan’s natural beauty and climate.
Whether you choose a multi-level deck, lakeside retreat, or entertainer’s paradise, considering your needs and the landscape will ensure your deck enhances your lifestyle for years to come.
At Custom Built Design & Remodeling, we specialize in designing and building decks that maximize your outdoor living experience while standing strong against the elements.
Ready to create the perfect deck for your home? Contact Custom Built today to start designing a space that suits your vision and Northern Michigan’s unique charm.
Now that you know more about top deck designs for enjoying Northern Michigan, let’s explore why you should build a composite deck for your lakefront property and how much your structure and outdoor living space will cost:
- 10 Reasons to Build a Composite Deck for Your Lake Home - Discover why a composite deck will elevate your lakeside oasis.
- How Much Does a Composite Deck Cost in Boyne City, Michigan? - Explore how much composite decks cost in Boyne City and the factors that affect it.
- How Much Does an Outdoor Living Space Cost in Northern Michigan? - Ready to make new memories in your outdoor living space? Learn more about how much it’ll cost to revitalize your sanctuary.
