Surprisingly, corner decks can be an underutilised feature in gardens, big or small. We’ve rounded up some of the best corner decking ideas to help you transform your outdoor space into something truly special.
Installing a composite corner deck enables you to turn an ordinary exterior into an extraordinary space. Different structural designs, furniture and decor optimise your deck and elevate even the smallest garden.
Whether you’ve just installed your composite decking or are giving your existing installations a makeover, our corner garden decking ideas will help you to level up your garden. Read on to find out how you can reinvent your outdoor areas.
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Why Choose a Corner Deck Design?
Although corner decks are common in the UK’s small gardens, they are just as functional and striking in medium-sized and large outdoor spaces. A corner deck not only maximises the available space, but also effectively extends your living spaces by turning underutilised areas into al-fresco lounging and socialising spots.
More often than not, we do not use the corners of our gardens. Corner decks let you make the most of your outdoor space while keeping the centre of your garden open to optimise sun exposure and for other features such as splash pools or climbing frames. Our corner decking ideas for small gardens can easily be adapted for bigger ones.
14 Unique Corner Decking Ideas
1. Diagonally laid corner decking boards
One of the top trending small corner decking ideas is striking diagonal layouts. Diagonally laid composite boards in lighter colours, such as stone or savanna, create a spacious feel that does wonders for space perception in smaller gardens. On the other hand, darker tones, such as walnut and graphite, create a sense of cosiness and warmth.
2. Use multi-level corner decking
Tiered designs elevate depth and dimension while defining different zones in your garden. An outdoor kitchen and lounging zone on different levels, for instance, quite literally ‘levels up’ the aesthetics and versatility of your corner deck. Add bullnose edges as a finishing touch to enhance the appearance and improve safety.
3. Install a pergola on your corner decking
A pergola turns your deck into an open-air cosy corner that can be enjoyed come rain or shine. Providing shade on sunny days and cover on rainy ones, this multipurpose addition creates a sense of bringing the indoors outside. Similar to composite fencing, this feature also makes your corner deck more private.
4. Install outdoor lighting on your corner decking
Imagine it – a balmy summer’s evening, sundowner in hand, lounging on your corner deck while soft lighting adds that cosy touch. Installing outdoor lighting is an absolute winner that levels up the ambience for any al-fresco occasion. Take a look at our super composite lighting ideas for inspiration!
5. Use curves in your corner decking
Create connections with natural surroundings by using smooth, curved corner deck designs. Rounded edges reflect the fluid shapes found in nature, and make your deck feel like an extension rather than an addition to your garden. Amplify this organic feel through woody colours and textures. When choosing between composite and timber decks, remember to consider the pros and cons of each.
6. Make your corner deck the designated hangout spot
Defining your corner deck’s purpose makes outdoor activities fun, even in the smallest of gardens. By making it a hangout spot to watch football, a relaxing, quiet reading nook or a dining area, you make the most of your exteriors. Just a few extras – a flatscreen, comfy chairs, a dining table, a barbecue – give your corner deck a purpose.
7. Install a fire pit in your corner decking
Few things are as cosy and enjoyable as a cup of steaming hot chocolate around a fire pit on a cold night. Installing one on your corner deck, with a few benches around it, turns your space into a social spot where you’ll love to hang out. Check out our sizzling tips for safely incorporating a fire pit.
8. Use your corner decking as a play area
Another purposeful use for composite corner decking is turning it into a play area for young children. Splinter-proof and slip-resistant composite decking is safe for bare feet and energetic spirits. It is the perfect place for a trampoline or toys.
9. Extend your corner decking around your garden
Turn up your garden’s pizazz a notch by extending your composite decking and ‘wrapping’ it around your lawn. By doing so, you create a typical courtyard with lots of potential. You can personalise your decking with furniture, decor, accessories and vertical features such as trellises.
10. Make your corner deck a wildlife sanctuary
Incorporating a pond, shrubs or other biodiverse greenery with your corner deck establishes a nook that attracts and supports wildlife. A sustainable garden is a mini ecosystem that flourishes in sync with the environment. It brings a countryside feel to urban gardens and creates a beautiful and relaxing focal point.
11. Add a railing to your corner decking for a cosy nook
Install balustrades around your corner deck to define the boundaries. This is a simple way to mark different zones and make it cosier. Thanks to our extensive range of colours and textures, you can either create flow with matching colours or dramatic contrast with opposing shades. Our balustrade guide explains how to install these fixtures.
12. Give your corner deck unique steps
On the topic of tiers and lighting, raising your corner deck and lighting the decking steps leading up to the platform can turn your garden into a fairytale setting. Installing these lights under the steps creates a sense that they’re magically floating in mid-air. You can also decorate your steps with climbers such as ivy for a fairytale touch. Just remember to make sure that they are not a trip hazard.
13. Create a private retreat with your corner decking
Surrounding your composite corner decking with trees, foliage or trellises creates a private escape where you can unwind, shielded from the bustle of your surroundings. A spot like this is perfect for reading, having a relaxing cup of tea, meditation or morning yoga. Climbers, for example, grow into natural walls when paired with trellises. Check out our great suggestions for climbers for your trellis.
14. Practice your green thumb with composite decking
Flex your green thumb and create a mini crop farm around your corner decking! This platform gives you easy access to your plants and makes it easy to grow things such as tomatoes, potatoes, herbs and more. You can also add a trellis for climbing crops such as beans or peas.
Install a Corner Deck With Personality
At Dino Decking, we’re passionate about making your outdoor spaces as beautiful, enjoyable and sustainable as possible. Our versatile composite decking transforms any-sized garden into an oasis where you can relax and socialise.
There are many reasons why Dino’s composite decking is the way to go when renovating your exterior spaces. It is easy to install, maintain and clean. Made from a tough mixture of recycled materials, our long-lasting composite decking stands the test of time.
On top of its practical benefits, at Dino Decking you get to choose from a wide range of colours, textures and patterns. Create your dream deck today with our exquisite composite decking solutions!
Corner Decking Ideas FAQs
Can I build a corner deck on top of an existing patio?
Yes, you can build a corner deck on top of an existing patio. It is a great way to renovate or give your existing, tired-looking patio a ‘facelift’. There are, however, a few things you should keep in mind. Use a pedestal support system to ensure effective drainage and airflow. This raises your new deck and allows for natural expansion and the prevention of structural damage.
What are the benefits of a corner deck?
A corner deck is a versatile feature that maximises small spaces and allows you to enjoy underutilised, tight corners in your garden. Because it is such a great space saver, it is ideal for smaller gardens.
With composite decking, you can do so much to personalise your corner deck and add a signature touch. Design variations, furniture and accessories turn it into a cosy spot where you can hang out with friends or enjoy a quiet hour away from the bustle in your private ‘hideaway’.
Visually, it is a big plus that is more interesting than traditional square designs. A corner deck extends your living spaces and makes your garden the talk of the neighbourhood.
What to put in the corner of a deck?
This depends entirely on what you want to use your corner deck for. If you want it to be your al-fresco go-to for long summer evenings, you can install a flatscreen TV, or add a firepit, a barbecue or dining furniture. You can add a trampoline or outdoor toys if it is a play area. Or, if your corner deck is a private spot, install trellises and plant lush greenery to shield you while you enjoy a book or meditate.
A corner deck can be whatever you want it to be. You can even erect a pergola to enjoy the outdoors, regardless of the weather.
How do I finish the edges of a corner deck?
Bullnose edges are one of the best ways to finish the edges of corner decking. These easy-to-install composite decking accessories round off rough edges. It is more than a beautiful finish; it also increases safety around your deck. A bullnose edge eliminates sharp angles and creates a rounded profile to decrease injuries. Plus, they’re more comfortable for bare feet!
Simply position and affix the bullnose trim.
