Top 5 Summer Decking Trends of 2025

As outdoor living continues to take center stage in home design, decks are evolving from simple gathering spots into multifunctional spaces that blend beauty, performance, and sustainability. For 2025, decking trends are driven by a desire for natural connection, ease of use, and comfort. 

Whether you’re a homeowner planning a backyard refresh or a builder helping clients create long-lasting outdoor spaces, these five trends are shaping what’s next in decking.

1. Natural Tones and Biophilic Design

Homeowners are increasingly looking to create spaces that bring the outdoors in, or in this case, extend indoor comfort into the outdoors. This year, natural, neutral and earthy tones are dominating color palettes. These hues not only feel grounded but also promote mental wellness, aligning with the principles of biophilic design.

Materials like ACRE™ decking offer a perfect fit. Made from upcycled rice hulls, ACRE has a natural, non-plastic feel and can be painted or stained to replicate wood tones and textures for your outdoor living space. 

2. Composite and Low-Maintenance Materials

Today’s homeowners want outdoor spaces that look great without constant upkeep. That’s why composite decking materials continue to gain momentum in 2025. These options deliver durability, weather resistance, and consistent performance year-round, without the frequent sanding, staining, or sealing that wood often requires.

ACRE is gaining traction as one of the few sustainable decking materials that combine durability with aesthetics. It won’t splinter, warp, or decay, and is long lasting with minimal maintenance.  With rising demand for stress-free outdoor living, products that provide homeowners ease for the deck’s durability will be a top choice. 

3. Sustainability Remains a Focus

Sustainability continues to shape consumer decisions across industries, and decking is no exception. In 2025, more homeowners and pros are prioritizing materials with a lower environmental footprint and longer lifespan. Recycled content and zero-waste manufacturing are becoming standard expectations.

Decking materials made from upcycled or waste-based sources are leading the charge. ACRE by Modern Mill is crafted from rice hulls, a rapidly renewable agricultural byproduct that would otherwise go to waste. It’s manufactured in a zero-waste facility in Mississippi, where every scrap of ACRE is reused to make new products. ACRE offers an opportunity to build more consciously without compromising performance or aesthetics.

4. Multi-Level Deck Designs Add Visual Interest

Multi-level decks are making a big comeback in 2025, thanks to their ability to define different zones for lounging, dining, and entertaining. Builders and designers are embracing this format to add both visual dimension and functional separation.

ACRE’s workability makes it ideal for intricate designs. Products like ACRE decking work well in these designs, offering consistent performance and beautiful wood-like aesthetics across varied heights and layouts. This trend supports personalized outdoor experiences that feel both functional and inviting.

5. Decks as Outdoor Entertainment Hubs

As lifestyles continue to blend indoor and outdoor living, decks are evolving into fully equipped entertainment hubs. Homeowners are incorporating features like built-in seating, fire pits, outdoor kitchens, and integrated lighting to create versatile spaces for socializing and relaxing.

Durability and low maintenance are essential for these high-use areas. Decking must provide the strength and weather resistance needed to support heavy foot traffic and outdoor gatherings, while maintaining a warm, natural look. ACRE notably,  is not hot underfoot, and is slip resistant, making it comfortable for barefoot use even on summer days. Plus, its surface is easy to clean messes from spills or debris. 

Conclusion

As decking evolves, the trends of 2025 emphasize the blend of natural beauty, durability, and sustainability to create outdoor spaces that enhance everyday living. From earthy tones and low-maintenance materials to multi-level entertainment hubs, smart decking choices lay the groundwork for lasting enjoyment.

ACRE delivers on these trends by offering the warmth and aesthetics of wood with the performance and eco-consciousness that today’s homeowners and builders expect. Keeping these trends in mind will help you design a deck that is not only stunning but built to endure.

Ready to explore ACRE decking for your project? Order samples here or reach out to the Modern Mill team using the form below with any questions!