Feel that sunshine on your face? Spring has arrived, bringing the longer days and lighter evenings we’ve been waiting for. It’s time to pot new plants, bring out the garden furniture, and decorate your decking for the months ahead.

Character and calm are trending themes for the outdoors this year, and all it takes is a touch of Vale & Eden decking inspiration to make your garden the most inviting space in your home.

2026 is the year of the Fire Horse, the symbol of high energy, confidence, and passion. And this vibrant spirit is reflected in the way we’re styling our gardens this spring.

Minimalism may not seem high energy, but it remains a firm favourite. Softer, warmer, and more layered shades are trending, from greys and taupes to misty whites. You can introduce a dash of colour with vertical planters and floating shelves, or a touch of personality with a bold sculptural ornament.

Monochrome furniture and accessories complement a minimalist garden, and you can always add a hint of metallic for an extra touch. All that’s left to do is sit back and relax on your contemporary and calming deck, the ideal spot to unwind after a busy week.

In contrast to minimalism is the relaxed bohemian aesthetic. Picture patterned outdoor rugs layered with textured cushions and soft throws, the perfect way of giving your deck some character. Earthy greens, terracottas, and warm beiges create a grounded, rustic atmosphere.

For a relaxed, coastal feel, choose accessories in seaside blues and soft off-whites. A boho garden isn’t complete without a string of festoon lights overhead and some low lanterns at dusk, perfect for creating a cosy and sociable spot for the spring.

Sustainability continues to influence outdoor styling this year. Upcycled pieces bring personality and purpose, from benches crafted from reclaimed timber and repurposed drinks trolleys for alfresco hosting to planters created from surplus deck boards. (Ask us about these – our customers have made a fair few!)

Natural textures and handmade accessories enhance the aesthetic, which you can soften with plump cushions and woven throws.

Feeling inspired? We thought you might be. With these trends in mind, here’s how you could spruce up your deck for different occasions this spring.

When the Earth’s axis and orbit line up, both hemispheres get an equal amount of sunlight –  and if that’s not an excuse to spend time outdoors, we don’t know what is. Remember that it is still March, so prepare for sunshine and showers with weatherproof cushions, a lightweight blanket, and comfy seats. Soaking up those extra golden hours never looked – or felt – so nice.

At the end of March, daylight saving comes into play. The clocks go forward an hour, and the brighter mornings and longer evenings put a spring in anyone’s step. Add a high table with stools for casual drinks or arrange deep-cushioned seats for laid-back conversation. As dusk settles, scatter throws and light the fire pit to be all set for a lovely evening.

‘Tis the season for hunting chocolate eggs in the garden. If you planted tulips and daffodils over the winter, they’ll be coming out to play almost as much as the Easter bunny. Set the long weekend up to be spent outdoors with: 

• Subtle seasonal touches (there’s no such thing as too many ceramic eggs or rabbits) 
• Coloured bunting woven along fencing and around decking balustrades
• Layered tablescapes for alfresco lunches that last all afternoon

For over 50 years, Earth Day’s raised awareness of the importance of protecting the environment – and there couldn’t be a more appropriate time to make your garden bee and wildlife friendly. Decorate your garden for Earth Day with

• Nectar-rich flowers (like lavender, verbena, and cosmos) – they attract our honey-making friends 
• Feeders and fat balls to keep birds visiting daily
• A birdbath, a simple touch that provides quiet entertainment all year round

Short on space on your deck? No problem. Add vertical planters or a trellis to your fence and let climbing plants flourish, making your decking feel alive.

School’s nearly out for summer – and with brighter days and warmer temperatures, your deck becomes the heart of family life. We’ve wrapped up three tried-and-tested garden decoration ideas to show you how to make the most of the outdoors during this school holiday.

The first BBQ

Set the table for teens, or scatter oversized cushions and rugs straight onto your deck for younger children. A box of garden games will keep the kids entertained all summer long, or switch for an upcycled drinks trolley for older children.

At-home camping

Feel adventurous without leaving home. Light the fire pit and gather the family to toast marshmallows under festoon lights. Add chunky floor cushions and blankets for comfort, and have a torch to hand in case someone fancies telling a spooky story.

Well-deserved R&R

The half-term might mean time off for the kids, but make sure to take time for yourself. Spring is as much about R&R as it is celebration. So pull out the reclining lounger, open a good book, and feel the warmth of late-afternoon sun on your face. Bliss!

With durable, low-maintenance composite decking underfoot, you’re set for long lunches, laid-back evenings, and family time outdoors. Wondering if it’s too late in the season to have a new deck fitted? Our blog has everything you need to know about installing decking during the spring. 

To plan your dream outdoor space, please get in touch with our friendly specialists.