Decking is essential in many Melbourne homes, transforming outdoor spaces into inviting and functional areas. Whether it’s for entertaining guests, relaxing in the sun, or enhancing a property’s aesthetic appeal, the latest decking trends in Melbourne combine style, sustainability, and innovation.
This article will explore the current decking trends for Melbourne homes, covering everything from materials to design choices and the growing focus on eco-friendly options.
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Sustainable And Eco-Friendly Decking Materials
Composite Decking
With environmental concerns becoming increasingly important, many homeowners in Melbourne are opting for composite decking. Composite materials are made from wood fibres and plastic, making them an excellent choice for sustainability.
Composite decking is long-lasting and requires less maintenance than traditional timber, as it resists rotting, fading, and insect damage. Many decking companies offer products made from recycled materials, contributing to reducing waste and promoting sustainability.
Timber Decking
Timber decking has been a classic choice for decades, and it remains a popular option for many homeowners in Melbourne. However, the trend now is to choose sustainably sourced timber. Homeowners are increasingly looking for certified timber products from responsibly managed forests. Species like spotted gum and blackbutt are favoured for their durability and aesthetic appeal.
Bamboo Decking
Another sustainable option gaining traction in Melbourne is bamboo decking. Bamboo is a rapidly renewable material, making it an environmentally friendly choice for decking. Bamboo decking offers the same durability and aesthetic appeal as traditional timber but with a much smaller environmental footprint. It’s also resistant to pests, rot, and warping, making it a practical and long-lasting option.
Low-Maintenance Decking Solutions
Composite Decking Benefits
As homeowners become busier, the demand for low-maintenance decking solutions is rising. Composite decking is particularly appealing due to its minimal upkeep requirements. Unlike traditional timber, composite decking does not require regular staining or sealing.
It’s resistant to fading, staining, and scratching, making it a hassle-free choice for homeowners who want to enjoy their outdoor spaces without spending time on maintenance.
Aluminium Decking
Another low-maintenance material gaining popularity in Melbourne is aluminium decking. Aluminium is highly durable, resistant to corrosion, and does not require painting or staining. It is also fire-resistant and can withstand extreme weather conditions, making it an ideal choice for homes in Melbourne’s variable climate.
Modern And Sleek Decking Designs
Wide Planks For A Contemporary Look
One of the biggest design trends in Melbourne is the use of wide decking planks. Wider boards create a more contemporary, sleek appearance and are often used to create a clean, minimalistic look. Wide planks also provide space and openness, making them an excellent choice for smaller outdoor areas.
Multi-Level Decking
For larger properties, multi-level decking is a popular choice. This design adds dimension and functionality to outdoor spaces, creating different zones for various activities. A multi-level deck can provide areas for dining, lounging, or even a spa, all within the same outdoor space. It’s perfect for homes with sloped landscapes or those wanting to take full advantage of different elevation levels.
Integrated Lighting And Features
Lighting is another significant trend in modern decking designs. Integrated LED lighting along the edges of the deck or within the stairs can create a beautiful and functional atmosphere in the evening.
This lighting enhances the deck’s visual appeal and provides safety for evening gatherings. Integrated features like built-in seating, planters, and fire pits are becoming increasingly popular, creating a more functional and aesthetically pleasing outdoor living space.
Natural Colours And Finishes
Earthy Tones And Neutral Colours
In terms of colour choices, Melbourne leads the way with earthy tones and neutral shades. Grey, charcoal, and natural wood finishes are popular for creating a calming, natural look.
These colours complement the surrounding environment and provide a timeless aesthetic that won’t easily go out of style. Homeowners are moving away from bold, bright colours and instead choosing shades that blend seamlessly with their home’s exterior and the natural landscape.
Textured Decking Finishes
Another growing trend is the use of textured finishes on decking materials. Textured surfaces add visual interest and provide a more natural look. These finishes can range from wood-like grains to stone-inspired patterns, offering homeowners various options to suit their style. Textured decking also provides additional slip resistance, making it safer for wet conditions.
Integration Of Decking With Landscaping
Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Living
Melbourne homeowners increasingly focus on creating seamless connections between their indoor and outdoor spaces. Decking is often integrated into landscaping to create a smooth flow between the two areas.
This trend is particularly evident in modern Melbourne homes where open-plan living spaces extend onto the deck, offering a cohesive and functional living area. The goal is to create an uninterrupted transition between the indoor and outdoor environments.
Greenery And Vertical Gardens
Decking is also being used to support lush greenery and vertical gardens. Homeowners are incorporating plant life into their outdoor spaces to enhance the natural beauty of their decking areas. Whether through planters, vertical garden systems, or climbing plants, greenery helps soften the edges of the deck and create a more inviting environment.
Customisation And Personalisation
Bespoke Decking Designs
Many Melbourne homeowners opt for bespoke decking designs that reflect their style and lifestyle. Customised decking allows for unique layouts, materials, and finishes that suit the homeowner’s needs. Whether it’s a deck with built-in seating, a custom-shaped layout, or a unique finish, personalised designs are becoming a significant trend in Melbourne’s decking scene.
Custom Features And Additions
Personalisation goes beyond the decking itself. Homeowners are adding custom features such as outdoor kitchens, fire pits, and even plunge pools to their decks. These features enhance the functionality of the outdoor space, allowing for year-round enjoyment and creating an area tailored to the homeowner’s needs.
Conclusion
The latest decking trends in Melbourne reflect a desire for stylish, sustainable, and low-maintenance outdoor spaces. From eco-friendly materials like composite and bamboo to modern designs like multi-level decks and integrated features, the decking landscape in Melbourne is evolving.
Homeowners increasingly seek seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor living areas while incorporating elements that enhance their decks’ aesthetic and functionality. With continued innovation and a focus on sustainability, the future of decking in Melbourne homes looks brighter.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Can I Reduce Maintenance On My Decking?
Consider using composite or aluminium decking materials to reduce maintenance. These options require minimal upkeep as they resist fading, staining, and scratching. Composite decking, in particular, doesn’t need regular sealing or staining, making it an ideal low-maintenance solution for busy homeowners.
How Can I Integrate My Decking With Landscaping?
To integrate your decking with landscaping, consider creating a seamless indoor-outdoor living space. This can be achieved using similar materials or designs between your deck and the surrounding garden. Adding greenery such as vertical gardens, planters, or climbing plants can enhance the connection between your deck and the natural landscape, creating a more harmonious and inviting outdoor area.
What Are The Advantages Of Using Composite Decking Over Timber?
Composite decking offers several advantages over traditional timber. It is more durable, resistant to fading, rotting, and insect damage, and requires much less maintenance, as it doesn’t need to be stained or sealed regularly. Composite decking is often made from recycled materials, making it an eco-friendly option. This makes it a long-lasting, low-maintenance alternative to timber, which can deteriorate with exposure to the elements over time.