With more UK homeowners extending their living space by investing in garden decking, there’s growing interest in how to make a deck an inviting retreat not just in the warmer months but throughout the year.
Trex, which invented and perfected composite decking 30 years ago and is now the world’s number one decking brand, has worked with interiors stylist Fi Cooper to discover how to get more enjoyment – and better value – from a deck by giving it a fresh look for every season.
From clever use of colour and texture to flexible accessories and seasonal lighting tricks, Fi’s expert tips will inspire year-round outdoor living. Here is her advice for autumn and winter.
Autumn
As the days grow cooler, the focus for your deck should be on creating a warm and cosy feel, says Fi.
“You can achieve this with chunky knit or fleece blankets in earthy tones like deep green, burgundy and shades of brown, which is very much of the moment this year.”
Retailers including Furn, French Bedroom and Dusk have a range of throws in seasonal colours to keep you warm on your deck as temperatures dip.
“Cushions in textured fabrics like boucle or outdoor velvets will add a luxurious vibe, and you can bring the look together with warm-toned LED lanterns or hurricane-style lamps that give off a soft glow.
“Interiors brand Abigail Ahern has gorgeous rechargeable and LED lamps at the moment that are perfect for outdoor use. For that really cosy feel, always use warm white bulbs, rather than cool white.”
Fi suggests completing your deck’s autumn look with pots filled with heathers for long-lasting colour through the cooler months, or tall grasses.
“Grasses help to create a soft feel and look great throughout the year,” she says.
“Another way to bring a natural, relaxed feel to your deck at this time of year is to fill chunky wicker baskets with logs, ready for staying warm around the fire pit.”
Winter
“Even in the coldest months, the right furnishings and accessories can make your deck a snug retreat,” says Fi.
“Wrap up warm in weather-resistant faux fur throws or cosy plaid blankets, complemented with cushions in jewel tones like navy, ruby or emerald – colours which also help you lean into the festive season.
“Hanging twinkling fairy lights along railings is another way to create a festive feel, while low level lighting throughout your garden will draw your eye across the whole space.
“This, and adding pockets of light for more interest, will help you make the most of your deck and your garden during the months when many people don’t often venture into their outdoor space,” Fi adds.
“Add a seasonal finishing touch to your deck with planters filled with holly, or decorative elements like wreaths, pinecones, moss bowls and berries.”
Make seasonal styling easier
Fi’s final tips for making the most of your deck year-round include choosing your furniture carefully and having plenty of storage.
“Trex decking offers endless design opportunities, and choosing neutral furniture makes it easy to style your deck in a variety of ways throughout the year.
“Investing in weather-resistant storage boxes or bench seats with built-in storage gives you a handy place to keep seasonal throws, cushions and accessories when not in use,” she says.
“You’ll also be much more likely to use your deck if the rest of the garden looks great, so I’d recommend making sure it has winter interest – planting plenty of evergreens and ornamental grasses will give life and colour during the colder months.
“It’s also worth using the winter months to check for any bare patches in the garden – and filling them to make sure your garden is at its absolute best in the spring and summer when you’ll be spending lots of time on your deck!”
Trex is available from a range of builders’ merchants, garden and landscape supplies specialists across the UK, as well as at over 150 Wickes DIY stores.
For more information on Trex, visit uk.trex.com.
