When you think of a wooden deck for your home, what is it that comes to mind? If you are like most people, you will envision a traditional looking wooden structure with stairs and possibly outfitted with railing and patio furniture. While any basic wooden deck looks good and adds home value, there are ways that you can amp up the designer style of this outdoor living space just like you would the interior of your home. Here is a look at some of the easy ways to spruce up an ordinary wooden deck with a little more flair for an uber designer appeal. 

Consider installing contrasting wood colors for accent pieces. 

There is nothing saying that every decking board used to build a wooden deck has to be the same color. In fact, you can create a totally unique look by mixing up the materials a bit and adding some accent pieces. For example, you could use a mostly lighter oak-colored decking board for the majority of the structure, but then have a few darker pieces stained in a mahogany tone to create a focal point near a sitting area or around a fire pit. 

Think about how lighting can change the perception of the deck. 

You don't have to stick with just a basic post light or light fixture attached to the wall beside the door for lighting up the deck. There are all kinds of ways to implement lighting in offbeat ways to add a little stylized flair to the space. For example, you could have inset runner lights installed along every stair to light up the steps to the deck or have toekick lighting installed around the base of the railing. You could even install dim mood lighting in each of the corner posts for a little drama. 

Take a look at architectural changes to add more depth and designer appeal. 

The deck does not have to be a single-layer home feature that has only one level. You can just as easily add a little dimension by changing up things a bit. For example, you could have one area raised that will be used for outdoor cooking or you could have one section recessed and a little lower than the rest of the deck where you will have a sitting area. Changing the flat and level platform to house multiple levels and different heights breaks up the space so it can be used as a multifunctional space.

Talk to a deck company like Houston Deck and Shade LLC to further explore these and other ways to customize your deck.