10 Backyard Deck Ideas for Stylish Outdoor Entertaining on a Budget

Set the Table

One of the least expensive ways to give your backyard deck a stylish new look is to set the table when you dine al fresco. Toss out the paper plates and leave behind the plastic takeout containers—instead, grab an affordable, elegant set of melamine plates and shatter-resistant glassware. This approach will make any outdoor dining experience feel like a special occasion.

Think Vertically

"One of my favorite ways to instantly transform a backyard deck is by using vertical space," says Laura Janney, founder of The Inspired Garden. "Tall plants create a sense of lushness that people don’t even realize they’re missing."

She suggests looking for tall potted plants and putting them in corners or beside seating areas. Group them in odd numbers, like combinations of three, or fill a plant stand. This approach will instantly take your deck from barren to botanical.

Add Extravagant Planters

Don't hold back on the planters. Select the largest size that will fit on your deck, and then go over the top with your plants. Follow the rules for a thriller, filler, and spiller —grab one tall, showy plant; one that will act like a cover, filling in all the empty spots, and one that will spill dramatically over the sides.

The best part? Planters don't have to cost an arm and a leg.

Bring In Color

Don't be afraid to add color, and keep in mind that plants are an inexpensive way to bring vibrance and life to your deck. Go for seasonal plants and native flowers for the most budget-friendly approach.

"I love mixing pots of different heights, but I try to keep to the same color tone to keep everything from looking too chaotic," says Janney. "I also love incorporating planted flowers along stairways."

Incorporate a Fire Pit

You can drop a few hundred dollars or more on a fire pit, but you don't have to. A budget-friendly one can add a cozy feel to your deck, and there are plenty of tabletop options available for under $100.

Add an Outdoor Rug

A rug is an easy way to freshen up your backyard deck with color and pattern. Plus, depending on the size of your space, you can usually find one for under $100.

Create Zones

Create zones with the furniture that you have—it doesn't need to be expensive!—and your space will instantly feel more elevated and intentional. Set aside a designated dining zone, a place to lounge, or a spot to curl up with a good book.

"Use an outdoor rug, install a pergola or trellis, or use planter boxes to create designated dining and lounging spaces," suggests Amanda Wiss, founder of Urban Staging.

Bring the Indoors Out

Want to instantly elevate your backyard deck without spending a cent? Bring your living room outside. Borrow a tablecloth, a pillow, a chair, even a lamp, and put it on a covered deck; your space will get a boost of sophistication simply from shopping your own home.

Just make sure to keep an eye on the forecast—if it looks rainy, you may have to bring a few of these pieces back inside.

Add a Potting Station

If you love a cottagecore look, then adding a potting station is an easy way to refresh your deck on a dime. Simply find an older table, then add an array of planters, tools, and a vintage watering can.

You can do most of your shopping secondhand, and your deck will get a new lease on life. Plus, it's a great place to tend to your growing plant collection.

Install Outdoor Drapery

Adding outdoor curtains is a budget-friendly way to make your deck feel like a resort getaway—and keep out bugs. Some basic DIY skills are the only prerequisite to install drapery rods, and you can find the curtains themselves for a steal online.