Deck & patio upgrades to refresh your outdoor space

by Meryl Diamond 04/24/2025

When it’s time to upgrade your outdoor living space, your primary focus will likely be your deck or patio. Whether you want to improve an existing deck or build a brand new one, going into the project with some ideas in mind will help you achieve your outdoor living goals.

Here are some outdoor patio and deck ideas to consider:


Living walls complete with movable planters

You might want to install walls on your deck to provide privacy. It can shield you from neighboring buildings while making you feel surrounded by trees and herbs within minutes. Use hanging planters to cover your walls in lush greenery. Another option is to use wheeled planter boxes with a trellis for plants to climb. 


Wood & stone decks

Stone veneer is a favorite among deck builders for its affordability and ease of installation. What’s even better is that stone veneer allows you to enjoy the aesthetic appeal of real stone in your deck design without the weight and price tag. Combining natural wood deck and stone veneer will create a striking contrast of materials and textures.


Patio privacy screens

There are many DIY solutions for patio privacy screens, but it’s important to use the right material for the job. If you opt for fabric screens, choose something easy to clean and weather-resistant. Windy backyards benefit from heavier weaves like canvas to keep the screen in place.

Are you ready to take your deck, patio or outdoor space to the next level? These ideas should help you get started and guide your project for a perfect outdoor living area.

About the Author
Author

Meryl Diamond

While I was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, I have spent the last 27 years living in the Lisle and Naperville area. The first single family home my husband and I ever owned was in Green Trails, Lisle. There were two things we loved about living in Green Trails - the sense of community and all the green space. This was a dream come true for my children who always had a friend to play with or a babysitter near by. For me, it gave me a chance to get to know the neighbors whom I have built lifelong friendships with. From neighborhood garage sales to summer barbeques, we always found reason to come together.