BLOG Optimize Your View: Designing Decks with Scenic Vistas in Mind by South Coast Decks Feb 24, 2025

Living in a place with stunning views is a luxury that many value, and for homeowners, maximizing that view is often a top priority. As specialists in creating breathtaking outdoor spaces, South Coast Decks understands the importance of designing decks that not only enhance outdoor living but also frame and accentuate your scenic vistas. Here’s how you can ensure that your deck design optimally leverages the natural beauty surrounding your home.

When designing a deck with scenic vistas in mind, the first step is careful site analysis. Take stock of your property’s topography and the vantage points it offers. Consider doing a walkaround during different times of the day to observe how light interacts with your landscape. This will help you determine the best placement for your deck, ensuring unobstructed views of the most breathtaking scenery, whether it’s a distant mountain range, a serene body of water, or a picturesque skyline.

Once you have identified the optimal location, it’s crucial to select designs and materials that complement the natural surroundings while withstanding the test of time and elements. Natural wood is a classic choice for its organic appeal and adaptability to different styles. However, composite decking offers benefits such as lower maintenance and durability without compromising aesthetics. At South Coast Decks, we guide our clients through choosing materials that not only enhance the vista but also meet their practical needs for durability and ease of care.

Another critical aspect of deck design for scenic views is the strategic use of railings and balustrades. Traditional railings can obstruct your view, so consider alternative options that maximize visibility without compromising safety. Glass railings offer an unobstructed view and a sleek modern look, virtually disappearing into the backdrop. Alternatively, cable railings can provide a less intrusive barrier, offering safety without detracting from the view.

Incorporating multi-level designs or specific architectural elements such as a pergola or an awning can also enhance enjoyment of the scenery while adding functionality. These elements allow for designated zones that can serve different purposes, such as dining, lounging, or even a cozy reading nook. Thoughtful layout planning can ensure each area takes full advantage of the expansive views, providing multiple angles and experiences for enjoying the scenery.

Lighting is another significant factor to consider, as it extends the usability of your deck into the evening hours. Strategically placed lighting, such as recessed deck lights or LED strip lights along railings, not only enhances safety but also highlights key architectural features and landscapes, creating a magical nighttime vista. Lighting choice and placement should harmonize with the overall deck aesthetic, serving to emphasize rather than distract from the inherent beauty of your views.

Finally, integrating natural elements into your deck can foster a seamless transition between your house and the landscape. Native plants and potted greenery can act as soft borders and aesthetic anchors to the surrounding environment, providing splashes of color that change with the seasons and maintain a cohesive look with the view beyond.

Designing a deck with scenic vistas in mind requires a delicate balance of aesthetics, practicality, and environmental considerations. At South Coast Decks, we’re committed to crafting exquisite outdoor spaces that allow you to savor every moment of the natural beauty that surrounds you. Whether you’re starting from scratch or looking to enhance your existing outdoor space, our expertise in decking ensures that your new addition will not only match your lifestyle but also amplify the breathtaking vistas that you call home. Let us help you create a deck that is as much a joy to behold as it is to walk upon.