How the History of Backyard Decks in Australia Made Them a Must-Have for Homeowners

Backyard decks are now a staple in Australian houses. After all, what better way is there to entertain friends and family with a meal or drinks than on your spacious deck? They are a great way to add a spacious outdoor entertainment area to your property. They also make a great addition to pool areas or huts and thatches.

So, How Did the Deck Become So Popular?

The history of backyard decks in Australia, or rather the concept of a deck, can be traced back to ancient times. While there’s no documented evidence of exactly who invented the deck, there’s a suggestion that similar structures, like patios, were used in ancient Israel. These spaces, whether in a court or rooftop, were designed for entertainment and social gatherings.

Fast forward to post-World War II Australia, around the 1950s, the Australian dream of owning a home with a backyard was taking shape. However, the backyards of yesteryears were starkly different. Until the 1960s, backyards were primarily functional spaces where families kept livestock such as chickens, pigs, and even cows. The focus was on self-sufficiency, and relaxation was not a priority. The constant work required for tending the livestock and the associated odours meant that backyards were not the ideal place for leisure.

The Transformation and Modern Appeal

The transformation of backyards into outdoor living spaces began as families started seeing the potential of their backyards beyond just utility. The beginning of this transformation could be seen as the birth of outdoor living in Australia. The backyard started evolving into an extension of the indoor living space, and the deck emerged as a platform linking the two. Decks gained widespread popularity in the 1980s as households sought to extend their living spaces.

The early decks were simple wooden platforms, often constructed with locally sourced timber. Over time, as the concept of outdoor living gained popularity, these platforms evolved into sophisticated structures equipped with outdoor kitchens and stylish furniture, adapting to the Australian climate. Since then, decks have grown to evolve, varying in size and serving multifaceted purposes.

Decks Today

Today, decks are an integral part of Australian homes, particularly in bushfire-prone areas, where they provide a safe and comfortable outdoor space. They reflect the country’s love for the outdoors and the shift from functional to the use of backyards. The deck has become a must-have for many Australian homeowners, a symbol of the lifestyle that values relaxation and enjoyment of the outdoors as much as hard work.

As lifestyles evolved and households became less self-reliant, leisure activities gained prominence. The shift from home-rearing animals to shopping in stores freed up time for relaxation, especially outdoors. Backyards gradually transitioned from hosting livestock and vegetable gardens to accommodating barbecues, pools, and decks, becoming spaces for enjoyment rather than work.

The Practical Benefits of Backyard Decks

Backyard decks have become a big part of many Australian homes, offering numerous practical benefits that enhance lifestyle and property value. Here are five critical reasons for incorporating a deck into your home design.

1. Enhanced Home Value

Backyard decks have been recognised as an excellent way to increase property value for many years. A well-constructed and maintained deck is often a great place that prospective buyers look for, especially in Australia. The country’s climate encourages outdoor living, making decks a highly desirable feature. They offer a space for relaxation and entertainment and signal a well-considered and functional home design.

2. Extended Living Spaces

A deck provides easy access to an additional outdoor area, essentially acting as an extension of your home’s living spaces. It significantly increases your home’s usable square footage, offering a great place to entertain guests or relax on a leisurely afternoon. Adding a deck can transform your home, giving it a more spacious feel and offering a seamless transition between the indoors and the outdoors.

3. Adaptable Use

The beauty of backyard decks lies in their versatility. They can serve diverse functions, from being the hub for family barbecues and social gatherings to a tranquil spot for yoga, reading, or quiet contemplation. As your family’s needs and preferences evolve, the deck can be easily adapted to meet these changes, proving its value as a flexible and practical addition to your home.

4. Improved Aesthetic Appeal

A backyard deck can significantly enhance the natural beauty of your home. With various materials and design options, you can create a deck that complements your home’s style and elevates its aesthetic appeal. Whether you opt for a modern minimalist design or a more traditional look, a deck can add a unique charm and personality to your home.

5. Closer to Nature

Backyard decks offer a comfortable platform to enjoy Australia’s natural beauty and climate. They provide an easy way to connect with nature, be it savouring a beautiful sunset, listening to the birds, or enjoying the soft caress of a gentle breeze. Don’t forget to add cafe blinds to your deck. They can provide a cosy feel during cooler months, ensuring your outdoor area remains inviting throughout the year.

Popular Deck Design Trends to Consider

As you plan your outdoor space, it’s essential to consider the latest trends in deck design. Influenced by lifestyle needs, aesthetic preferences, and advances in decking materials and technologies, these trends can inspire and guide your decisions. From eco-friendly materials to multi-functional spaces, these popular trends reflect a desire to create outdoor living spaces as comfortable, stylish, and practical as our interiors. Let’s explore ten of the most popular deck design trends you might want to consider for your project.

1. Low-Maintenance Decking

Low-maintenance decking is a popular trend in Australia. Homeowners opt for materials that can withstand the Australian climate with minimal upkeep. The materials of choice include composite decking and certain types of timber resistant to warping, cracking, and insect damage. This trend is driven by the desire to enjoy outdoor living spaces without the constant need for maintenance.

2. Multi-Level Decks

Multi-level decks are on the rise. These structures help homeowners maximise their outdoor space, particularly in sloping backyards. They also add visual interest and can be used to create separate ‘zones’ for dining, lounging, and other outdoor activities. This trend enhances the functionality of outdoor areas and adds a unique aesthetic to the home.

3. Innovative Decking Systems

The utilisation of innovative decking systems is another trend gaining popularity. These systems simplify the decking process with integrated joist protection and self-straightening capabilities. They also help ensure a high-quality, durable finish. This trend is driven by the demand for efficient construction methods that don’t compromise quality or longevity.

4. Natural Timber Decks

Natural timber decks are a time-honoured trend that continues to be popular in Australia, as shown by. These decks, often built with native Australian wood species, provide a warm, inviting aesthetic that blends well with the natural surroundings. They are also highly customisable and can be stained or painted to match the homeowner’s style. The trend appeals to those who prefer traditional, timeless outdoor living spaces.

5. Outdoor Living Spaces with Integrated Features

Decks that serve as fully functional outdoor living spaces are also trending. These decks often include built-in seating, outdoor kitchens, fire pits, and spas. They’re designed to extend the home’s living space and provide a comfortable area for relaxation and entertainment. This trend is driven by the desire to make the most of Australia’s favourable climate and enjoy more outdoor living.

6. Eco-Friendly Decking

Eco-friendly decking options are becoming more popular as environmental consciousness increases among homeowners. Materials such as composite decking from recycled plastic and wood waste are favoured due to their sustainable sourcing and manufacturing process. Additionally, using locally sourced timber minimises the carbon footprint associated with transportation. This trend reflects a growing commitment to sustainability in home improvement projects.

7. Glass Balustrades

Glass balustrades are gaining traction in modern deck designs due to their sleek, minimalistic appeal and the uninterrupted views they provide; these structures add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any deck, making it a perfect spot for entertaining guests or enjoying scenic vistas. The transparency of glass balustrades also allows more natural light to flow into the home.

8. Covered Decks

Covered decks, or decks with pergolas and gazebos, are becoming a must-have in many Australian backyards. They provide shelter from the elements, allowing the outdoor space to be used all year round. Whether it’s a simple shade cloth or a fully built structure with lighting, the trend is towards creating a functional and comfortable outdoor space, regardless of the weather.

9. Built-In Lighting

With the advancement in outdoor lighting options, many Australian homeowners are integrating lighting into their deck designs. Lighting can be embedded into the deck, installed along railings, or incorporated into landscaping. This not only enhances safety and usability after dark but also adds to the aesthetic appeal of the outdoor space. The trend toward built-in lighting is a testament to the desire for outdoor spaces that are functional and inviting at all times.

10. Decking as a Transition Space

The concept of the deck as a transition space between the indoors and outdoors is a growing trend. Decks are designed to mirror the style and comfort of the home’s interior, with similar flooring, furniture, and decor. This creates a seamless flow from the inside of the house to the outside, extending the living space and blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor living. This trend is driven by the desire to make the most of Australia’s favourable climate and enjoy more outdoor living.

Let’s get Started with Your Backyard Deck

With Aarons Outdoor Living, you’re not just investing in a deck but in high-quality, aesthetic, and value-adding solutions that genuinely transform your outdoor living experience. Our decks, whether standard-sized, custom-sized, attached, freestanding, or additions to existing structures, are made from the finest timber, ensuring longevity and aesthetic appeal.

Imagine transforming your house into the ultimate outdoor entertainment area, where you can enjoy endless nights with family and friends. As an Australian-owned company, we pride ourselves on helping you realise this dream, guiding you in selecting and installing the perfect deck for your home.

Aaron’s decks come in five standard sizes, or we can even give a quote for custom sizes. Decks can be attached to your house or freestanding. They can also be added to existing decking, thatches, huts, home studios, and cubbies. Not only do decks look aesthetically pleasing, they also add value to your house. There’s no reason not to invest in a deck for your home!

Our decks are made of the highest quality timber, so it’s built to last. We used kiln-dried, arsenic-free treated pine that is long-lasting and aesthetically pleasing. As a premium option, we also offer Cumaru timber, a quality hardwood timber. You can rest assured that you’re getting the best quality products.

Ready to take the first step towards your dream outdoor area? We’re here to help. Contact us via email, start a chat with our team, or call us. Let’s create your perfect outdoor sanctuary together.