5 Deck and Pergola Design Trends for 2025

Moore Designs & Outdoor Living

Jan 42 min read

A well-designed outdoor living space can completely transform your backyard. That being said, there are a lot of ways you could go about it, whether you're considering a custom deck, pergola, or both--understanding current trends can provide inspiration and give you an idea of the possibilities. From innovative or sustainable materials to multi-functional features, here's what you need to know about 2025 outdoor living trends.

modern composite white deck with black metal railing. Deck also features built in ceiling fans, heaters, and mounted lanterns

1. Composite Materials for Low Maintenance and Durability

While classic wood will never go out of style, composite decking has become the preferred choice for homeowners who are looking for a long-lasting, low-maintenance solution. These materials resist moisture, fading, and warping, making them ideal for Northern Virginia's climate.

Birds Eye view of a large backyard in northern Virginia featuring a multi level deck, pool, hardscaping, and landscaping.

2. Multi-Level Decks for Functionality

Multi-level decks add dimension to an outdoor space, creating designated space for dining, chilling, playing, gardening, or entertaining. They can work to cultivate a luxurious, functional retreat feeling or it can simply create separate spaces for kids toys, either way they also help homeowners maximize their yard's square footage and enhance curb appeal.

pergola made out of wood atop a stone bar. In the forefront is a modern stone fireplace. The pergola also features built in ceiling fan and mounted heaters

3. Pergolas

We talk about pergolas a lot around here and that's for good reason. They're versatile, functional, and beautiful, making them a worthwhile addition to most outdoor spaces. Whether you're looking for one with a motorized roof or a classic structure, they can provide shade and weather protection--allowing homeowners to use their outdoor spaces year-round.

A two story deck at night with visible built in LED lights on each stair turned on. Additionally there is a ceiling light turned on and a mounted sconce.

4. Integrated Lighting and Smart Features

LED rail lighting and built-in outdoor speakers are just the beginning! Technology is becoming an integral part of outdoor living because it has the ability to makes your life easier and safer. Motion-sensor lights, wifi-extenders, and smart heating/cooling are convenient and functional additions.

An indoor-outdoor deck with white walls, grey-composite flooring, and light wood A frame style ceiling. The deck features a mounted TV and sound bar on top of a stone fireplace and there is a built in ceiling fan and an antler chandelier.

5. Indoor-Outdoor Living

Large sliding doors leading to covered patios offering a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces have been gaining popularity and it doesn't show any signs of slowing down. Homeowners are looking for cohesive design that allows for easy movement and comfort at every turn. Think: covered patios, typically indoor materials, climate control, functional and decorative lighting, fireplaces, outlets, comfy seating and TVs.