Decking can transform your garden into a versatile, welcoming outdoor space, but choosing the right decking size can be a bit tricky. Whether you’re planning an intimate nook for morning coffees or an expansive area for family gatherings, the right deck size can enhance your garden’s layout and make the space feel just right. Here’s a handy guide to help you decide whether a small, medium, or large deck suits your garden best.
Understanding Your Garden Space
Assessing Garden Size and Shape
Start by measuring your garden’s dimensions to get a realistic view of the area you have to work with. A narrow, rectangular garden might require a different approach than a large, open space. Use a tape measure and take note of any irregular features or spaces that might affect your decking layout. Imagine how much of the garden you want to dedicate to the deck while leaving room for plants, pathways, or green spaces. You can get free samples from DINO to explore what’s going to be best for your garden.
Considering Other Garden Elements
Your decking should enhance, not overwhelm, the garden’s existing elements. Think about other areas you’d like to keep open for flower beds, vegetable patches, or other focal points like a fountain or garden feature. Balancing these elements can prevent your garden from feeling too deck-heavy and helps create a space that feels both functional and harmonious.
Defining Your Decking Purpose
Outdoor Dining and Entertaining
If you plan to use your deck for dining and entertaining, consider what furniture and features you’ll need to fit in comfortably. Will you need room for a dining table, chairs, or even a BBQ grill? For entertaining, a medium to large deck might be ideal, especially if you envision hosting larger gatherings or family dinners outdoors.
Relaxation and Lounging
For those who want their deck as a private relaxation space, you’ll need to account for the furniture that will make it cosy. Think about a couple of comfortable chairs, a small coffee table, or perhaps a sun lounger. A smaller deck can work well for relaxation if the main goal is a quiet corner rather than a gathering space.
Practical or Multi-Purpose Uses
Some decks act as a multi-functional space, whether it’s for drying clothes, storing garden tools, or as a transition between the garden and home. A small or medium deck can serve this purpose well. It can act as a versatile entry point, especially if space in the garden is limited.
Choosing Small, Medium, or Large Decking Based on Lifestyle Needs
Small Decking Areas
For smaller gardens, or if you prefer a minimalist outdoor setup, a small deck might be just the ticket. Perfect for solo relaxation or a cosy seating arrangement, a small deck can still feel inviting. To maximise functionality, consider built-in seating, foldable furniture, or space-saving designs like a corner bench.
Medium Decking Areas
A medium-sized deck strikes a good balance for those who want to use it for both personal relaxation and occasional social gatherings. This size allows for some flexibility—perhaps a couple of seating areas, a small dining table, or decorative planters. Adding low dividers or planters can help section off zones for different activities, giving your deck a multifunctional feel.
Large Decking Areas
If your garden has ample space, a large deck can give you the freedom to create distinct zones for dining, lounging, or even a bar area for entertaining. Large decks are great for those who frequently host guests or have a bigger household. Just keep in mind that more deck space might mean more maintenance, so consider materials and upkeep as part of your decision.
Why You Should Choose Composite If You Have a Busy Life
You’re trying to renovate your garden and make it a nice place to spend time in. Whether you love to lounge around and enjoy the sunshine or you adore a family barbeque at the weekends, having a nice outdoor space is key to relaxing and having fun.
But, if you have a busy life, whether it’s with children or a hectic career, you need to think carefully about the materials you use for garden improvements. You need materials that are easy to take care of and won’t require a lot of work when you’re so busy. One of the best is composite. Let’s take a look at why.
Minimal Maintenance
You want to enjoy your garden and not renovate it all the time. Well, this is the great thing about composite. It’s a material that requires minimal maintenance throughout the year. All you have to do is clean it after winter. You can compare this to timber, where you’re going to have to sand, treat and paint the wood every year. So, you can look forward to having a decking space or using fencing that looks great with minimal work.
A Durable Material
One thing you want to do when you’re renovating your garden is to invest in durable and strong materials. This way, it’s less likely to be affected by the elements, and it will last for many years. This is the great thing about composite. It’s a material that’s known for its resilience, which is going to make it suitable for all seasons in the UK. Indeed, you’re less likely to replace composite boards than you are with timber.
Various Colours and Styles
Since composite is growing in popularity, the materials for your garden are plentiful. In other words, you can choose from a variety of different styles and designs, which ensures you have freedom over what your garden will look like. This is all without painting and modifying it yourself.
Conclusion
Choosing the right decking size means considering your garden’s layout, your lifestyle, and future needs. A well-sized deck can elevate the look of your garden, creating a functional and inviting outdoor space for relaxation, entertainment, or even practical use. Take the time to plan and visualise how you’ll use your deck, keeping both function and aesthetics in mind. Whether it’s small, medium, or large, there’s a perfect decking size to suit every garden.