Covered deck ideas — 10 ways to create a seamless indoor-outdoor living area

If you're lucky enough to have a decked area in your garden, it's worth brainstorming some covered deck ideas to help you spend as much time out there as possible.

There are plenty of garden decking ideas to choose from, but if you're looking to create an indoor-outdoor space, you'll need to think about ways to shelter your decking area from the elements.

We've spoken to garden and decking experts to compile a list of the best covered deck ideas and help you create the ultimate cosy outdoor space.

1. Frame your space with a pergola

Pergolas feature in the most popular covered deck ideas, and for good reason — they're a brilliant way to add structure to your garden, and also a super garden layout idea.

'Define the parameters of your deck with a pergola,' says Lee Heitzman, UK market manager for Trex. 'This type of architectural structure marries form with function to provide shade and a sense of seclusion.'

With so many styles and materials to choose from, there are plenty of pergola ideas at your disposal. There are plenty of covered options, too. Or, you can grow your own — which leads us nicely onto our next idea...

2. Create a natural ceiling

If you do opt for a pergola as part of your covered deck ideas, consider growing fast-growing climbing plants like honeysuckle and clematis along the frame to provide natural shade.

'Climbing roses and colourful climbers such as clematis and honeysuckle look delightful clambering up fences, trellis or draped over arbours and are invaluable in helping small gardens maximise vertical planting spaces,' says Jamie Shipley, gardening expert and managing director of Hedges Direct.

They're a brilliant garden screening idea, too. 'A pergola covered with climbers can protect your deck area from the gaze of surrounding buildings,' Jamie adds.

Clematis 'Apple Blossom' from Crocus produces creamy-pink flowers with a beautiful fragrance.

3. Cover the sides with drapes

Covering the roof is one thing, but if you're looking for shelter from the wind or other garden shade ideas, you could think about the sides of your pergola, too.

'Tie wind draping, such as sheer sheets, chiffon or curtains, through the pergola's roof laths and staple or tie them tight to the beams so they don't blow away,' suggests Luke Dejahang, gardening expert and director at Crown Pavilions.

'This will create an airy, bohemian feel while simultaneously blocking out the sun.'

You can buy pergola curtains from Amazon in a range of colours and styles.

4. Think about lighting

If you're covering your decking area, you'll need a source of light during the evenings — and there are plenty of garden lighting ideas to choose from.

Personally, we think festoon lights are a great choice if you've got a pergola — you can loop them around the frame to cover the whole area. Or, opt for a statement pendant light to take centre stage in the middle of your covered deck area. We love the Outdoor Coastal Pendant Porch Lantern from Industville.

5. Protect against the elements with a roof

We all know how unpredictable the British weather can be, but when it’s summertime, you want to be outdoors come rain or shine!

Make it possible and protect yourself from surprise downpours with a see-through polycarbonate roof, like the Palram Canopia Sierra Patio Cover (from Argos) in this image. The transparent design lets in plenty of light, and you’ll be able to use your decking whatever the weather.

6. Extend your living space outdoors

Installing a pergola right outside your backdoor creates a seamless indoor-outdoor living space that’s perfect for entertaining.

Positioning it right outside an indoor kitchen or dining area creates the perfect opportunity to bring indoor living outdoors. The pergola will help to keep off some of the sun’s glare and add vertical interest to the space.

7. Go glam with an igloo

If you don’t feel like committing to a permanent structure, a garden igloo like this VEVOR Garden Dome Igloo from Amazon is the perfect temporary covered decking solution. We’ve seen these popping up everywhere over the past few years — especially outside of bars and restaurants and in pub gardens — and they’re an ideal way to add extra indoor space to your home.

Use yours for al fresco dining, as a yoga studio at the bottom of your garden, as a playhouse, or even as a greenhouse — the opportunities are virtually endless! Glam it up with chic furniture, cushions and throws, and you’ll be relaxing in a haven of tranquillity in no time.

8. Add partial coverage for light relief

A covered decking doesn’t have to mean full coverage. If you like to be in direct sunlight most of the time, adding partial coverage could be the ideal solution, creating a dedicated area for those that prefer to be a little more sheltered.

Before you install your cover, track the movement of the sun throughout the day to identify the best spot on your decking for it.

9. Add a chic parasol for a simple covered deck idea

If floorspace is limited, or you're looking for budget garden ideas, then look no further than a chic parasol. It’s a simple yet effective way to add shade to your garden on a sunny day, and this muted parasol with fringing adds a relaxed, boho feel to the space.

'For less permanent, and more convenient, options, simply adding a parasol can be enough to provide cover and protection, especially in those summer months,' says Jeremy Fishlock, category planner at B&Q.

Add neutral-hued cushions for an inviting area that’s perfect for curling up with a good book.

Where to buy a parasol:

10. Set sail with a simple canopy cover

For a bohemian-inspired covered deck idea, string up a simple sail between two sturdy trees, walls or fence posts. The canopy will provide shade and a feeling of lightness and freshness as it catches the summer breeze.

Follow the shade by moving your table and chairs around underneath, surround yourself with luscious outdoor plants, and pick a bunch of fresh flowers from your garden for a table centrepiece.

FAQs

How much does it cost to build a covered deck?

The cost of covered decking depends on the type of cover you go for. Simple parasols can cost anywhere from £20-£500 depending on size, material and design. The average cost of a wooden pergola is £2,500 (according to Checkatrade), however this can vary considerably, from around £400 to £6,000. You could consider building your own to keep costs down!

Larger, more permanent structures will understandably cost more, and the price will depend on the size, design, materials and whether you want to include any mod-cons like lighting or heating.

If you're looking for a more permanent fixture, take a look at our list of garden room ideas.