To maximise a modest space, decking is a fantastic idea.

Segmenting your space with decking can provide the impression of size, unlocking and opening up even the smallest gardens.

In terms of types of wood to choose, European oak is a timeless timber choice – the species’ golden brown tones and eye-catching grain pattern are perennially popular. Versatile too are the classical golden yellow tones afforded by Siberian Larch.

Iroko is another particularly on-trend species, also known as ‘African teak’ and regarded as the Rolls-Royce of decking for its impeccable stability, density and outdoor durability. This African hardwood’s golden browns and grain pattern closely resemble teak – hence the moniker.

Room with large black-framed glass doors opening to a wooden deck and lush garden: vertical plant wall, trimmed hedge, wooden screens, brick wall.

This project pairs iroko decking with Siberian larch slatted fencing to create a maximised, nature-filled small garden.

Vertical garden wall with assorted herbs and greenery in black planters, framed by wooden slat fences; stone patio and a long black planter with trimmed hedges.

Backyard or patio area with horizontal wooden slat privacy screens, a light stone tile patio, and tall green hedges along a wooden fence.

The eye-catching living wall in this project adds to the illusion of size, something also accomplished in the project below. Multi-layered decking can also make your space seem bigger.

Wooden deck with a stepped platform in a garden, featuring a stone ball fountain on white gravel, orange flowers, and green shrubs.

Wooden deck garden with curved stairs, raised planters, purple and white flowers, tall hedges, and a shaded seating area with a blue art panel.

Zen garden scene with bamboo stalks, ivy-covered wall, neatly trimmed boxwood spheres, white gravel and a stone lantern beside wooden decking.

Iroko’s tropical tones also showcased in this grooved iroko decking project we worked on. In-built lighting is a feature that can add some easy atmosphere (and safety).

Wooden deck attached to a beige house with white doors, built over gravel; stone-walled extension on one side and countryside fields in background.

Warm brown wooden deck with narrow grooved boards and visible screws, raised above gravel with stone stepping pads nearby.

Thermally-modified woods are gaining popularity. Take Thermo-Oak – this is where European oak undergoes a sustainable heat modification process to improve its outdoor durability and stability.

Wooden garden shed with large glass double doors and black frames, built on a wide wooden deck, fenced on both sides with a green lawn behind.

Thermo baking also imparts a darker brown colour on the wood, as this small smooth face decking project so majestically shows. Thermo-Nordic Pine is another popular heat-modified option that’s also very cost effective. These Thermo-options are typically clear grade, with a darker colour that helps with blending into surroundings.

Brown wooden deck with visible planks and a raised edge, over a green lawn; dark-framed glass doors and wooden wall visible in the background.

A quality timber deck can set you back in the region of £40–£70 per m² – it depends on the species chosen. But you stand to recoup all of these costs by adding value to your space.

Don’t forget, too, that with a smaller space comes smaller expenditure on raw materials – your project shouldn’t cost the earth compared to a project in a larger garden. Maximum enjoyment, minimal expenditure.

Even the tiniest of decks can add functionality.

Urban courtyard patio with gray tiles, a sun lounger on a wooden deck, potted flowers, ivy-covered walls, a tree, and surrounding apartment buildings.

Cozy wooden balcony on a deck with a lime-cushioned chair, a small table holding sunglasses and a wine glass, flanked by vibrant pink, white, and green flowers in planters.

Trying something different with the edges of your decking, such as curved edges, can add a different dimension and a nice finishing flourish.

Curved reddish-brown wooden deck boards transition to a pale stone patio with irregular pink-tan stones.

As we mentioned earlier, a variety of elevations naturally makes a smaller garden feel bigger.

Nighttime backyard wooden deck with string lights, a circular fire pit, two chairs, a wooden bench/steps, and dense green foliage in the background.

Wood is a natural material,so decorating your deck with potted plants – or even creating your own mini vegetable plot – is an easy way to create a biophilic, nature-connected space.

Wooden balcony with potted plants on and beside bench, including tomato plants; a green watering can and sandals on deck, with grassy yard beyond.

Decks don’t have to be pure wood, though. A composite deck, especially one with a high wood content, provides an easy-to-maintenance choice. Grey and charcoal are particularly on-trend choices.

Modern wooden cabin on a raised deck with glass railings; large open doors reveal a cozy interior and wooden steps leading to a green lawn.

Levelling up a small garden?

At Duffield Timber, we supply a range of designer timber decking, fencing and cladding – ideal for adding an architectural touch to your outdoor area, however big or small it may be.

All of our products are made from quality imported timber and machined by us to your specification. Take a look at some of our case studies for even more inspiration, or contact our team to get started on your project.