Introduction
Cape Cod homes are prized for their stunning seaside views, and your deck should be designed to fully embrace that beauty. Whether you’re perched on a dune or nestled among the pines, a well-designed deck enhances your outdoor living space while preserving the charm of Cape architecture. Here’s how to make the most of your ocean view:
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1. Elevated Decks for Panoramic Views
- Why it works: Raising your deck—even slightly—helps you see over dunes, shrubs, or neighboring rooftops.
- Design tip: Use cable or glass railings to avoid obstructing sightlines.
- Bonus: Elevated decks offer better sea breezes and a greater sense of privacy.
2. Wraparound Deck
- Why it works: These provide multiple vantage points—ideal for homes with curved coastlines or views from different angles.
- Design tip: Create zones—dining, lounging, sunbathing—so the entire deck feels purposeful.
3. Multi-Level Decks
- Why it works: Separating areas by height gives you flexibility—one level for dining, another for a fire pit or hot tub.
- Design tip: Connect levels with wide, open steps that double as extra seating.
4. Glass Panel Railing
- Why it works: Uninterrupted views of the ocean, especially useful for low decks or second stories.
- Design tip: Choose salt-resistant tempered glass with minimal framing for a clean, modern look.
5. Built-In Seating and Planter
- Why it works: Keeps the design sleek while reducing the need for bulky furniture that can block views.
- Design tip: Use coastal plants like beach grass or hydrangeas to tie the deck to the landscape.
6. Pergolas with Retractable Shades
- Why it works: Offers shade when needed without enclosing the space.
- Design tip: Position pergolas on the inland side, leaving the ocean-facing edge open for full visibility.
7. Weather-Resistant Materials
- Why it works: Ocean air is tough on wood and metal. Choose composite decking or pressure-treated lumber built for coastal climates.
- Design tip: Stick with light, sandy tones that reflect Cape Cod’s classic aesthetic.
8. Outdoor Lighting for Evening Views
- Why it works: Soft, low lighting extends your enjoyment into the night without spoiling the natural surroundings.
- Design tip: Use solar-powered lights or low-voltage LEDs along railings and stairs.
9. Bonus Tip: Orient Toward the Sunset
If your home faces west or southwest, orient seating and sightlines toward the horizon. A sunset over the water is one of the best features you can build around.
Conclusion
Cape Cod decks should feel like a natural extension of the coast—open, relaxed, and full of light. Focus on unobstructed sightlines, quality materials, and timeless design elements that let the ocean steal the show.
