A still life made up of pumpkins and gourds combined with container grown mums can easily celebrate the arrival of fall. A simple snow sculpture on the deck could be a fantastic focal point for a few weeks in winter.



Because decks are often visible from indoors it is important to keep in mind that deck decorations are wonderful design ideas to strengthen the connection between indoor rooms and outdoor living spaces. Look for different ways to repeat materials or colors indoors and out.

Consider using similar objects in both places for dramatic effect. Something as simple as a vase placed on a shelf in the living room and others that sit out on the deck can connect these rooms inside and out.

Wreaths and decorations are easy to hang on deck railings to send holiday grettings to the whole neighborhood. Make sure that some are positioned to point toward the house so that they can be enjoyed from indoors.

When making a selection of decorative objects or ornaments, keep in mind that they must be able to withstand the harsh conditions of certain types of weather. They should also be heavy enough so as not to be blown around in windy conditions or be securely fastened down. Metals such as aluminum, stainless steel and bronze have the advantage of being rustproof. Other metals do not possess this characteritic and may not be a wise choice for display on or around the deck.

However, some metal pieces look great when they rust and can become wonderful display objects on the outdoor living space. The options for decorative ideas in decorating a deck year-round are almost endless and limited only by a homeowner's imagination and creativity.

Basic lighting is an essential ingredient with decks for safe lighting to illuminate steps and walkways. Lights can also easily bcome wonderful decorative elements all their own. Shining 1 or more small spotlights up into a nearby tree or shrub can easily add drama to a deck at night. Ensure that the spotlight does not shine into the neighbor's yard.

Hanging strings of small decorative mini lights over a dining area, under an arbor or in the branches of a tree can create a wonderful, festive atmosphere.

Table decorations outdoors are effective decorative touches. Dress up an outdoor table with a simple all-weather centerpiece. A collection of cacti and succulents can be grouped together for a summer display. A shallow bowl planted with annuals or bulbs can be another great choice. Avoid leaving wet pots on wrought iron tables because of the potential problem of rust.

For party occasions make extensive use of candles. Lanterns designed for boats are wonderful because they are safe on wooden decks and usually do not blow out on windy evenings.

Blown glass rings designed to hold 1 or 2 flowers can be floated in a dish of water. Combine them with floating holders for votive candles to create an enchanting nighttime centerpiece.

A deck is an ideal place to display objects that are reminders of special people or places. Tuck a piece of driftwood from a favorite vacation spot or a garden sculpture from a close friend next to a container and a daily reminder of a special memory will be the result.

Consider displaying collections of items that can withstand the weather. Place these items among plant containers, along the base of railings, beside bench seating, at the base of stairs off to the side and on side tables.

Walls that surround a deck cry out for some type of decoration. Experiment with hanging all-weather versions of paintings, metal wall ornaments and stone plaques. An antique metal section of fence or old iron gate may be just the right thing to hang on a wall.

Ornamental latticework is also a very effective wall decoration possibility. Any number of collections can be used to decorate walls including old garden tools, birdhouses or floats from crab or lobster pots.

Decks can easily become wonderful, aesthetically appealing outdoor spaces year-round by simply adding deck decoration that reflects the personalies and creative energies of their owners.