15 Deck Ideas for Small Yards
These small deck layouts prove that size isn’t everything.
These small deck layouts prove that size isn’t everything.
Having the deck of your dreams shouldn’t be out of reach just because you have a small yard. Not only does a deck provide an inviting outdoor space for relaxation and entertainment, but it also adds value to your home. Whether you have a cozy courtyard or a compact backyard, a well-designed deck can maximize the use of your outdoor area and create a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor living.
1. Celery-top pine in Kingston
Architects Aaron Roberts and Thomas Bailey of Room 11 faced a unique challenge when they designed this Kingston house. The home abuts a rock shelf, which means virtually no yard. However, extending the outdoor room to include a narrow deck made use of the otherwise unusable outdoor space. The home decking, constructed from local celery-top pine, a species of coniferous tree native to Australia, is known for its durability and resistance to decay.
The outside deck, made of local celery-top pine, welcomes both humans and the natural landscape further into the house.
Photo: Andrew Rowat
2. Linear Decks in Virginia
This Virginia homestead is nestled between two rivers and a densely wooded property. Anna Boeschenstein, owner and founding principal of Grounded Landscape Architecture and Design in Charlotte, Virginia, used natural typography to create an adaptable deck area so the family could make the most of the outdoor space. The property has linear decks that span outside spaces, allowing the owners to enjoy their hillside retreat. The deck snakes between existing trees and difficult topography to connect the living spaces while preserving the natural elements.
The dining table, a custom design by Formwork, and red Non chairs by Komplot complement the addition’s cypress cladding.
Photo: Eli Meir Kaplan
3. Oakland Home Muti-level Deck
During a kitchen renovation, this family expanded their eating area to the outdoors with help from Mitchell Holladay Architects. The traditional bungalow was reconfigured to create a backyard area with a multi-level ipe deck cascading down to the rear yard. This multi-level deck design maximizes the usable area while minimizing the deck’s footprint, making it ideal for smaller yards or limited outdoor spaces.
An eight-foot-high sliding glass door leads to the backyard's Ipe deck, ideal for informal gatherings.
Photo courtesy of Mitchell Holladay Architects
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