With summer right around the corner, more homeowners across Central Pennsylvania and Northern Maryland are increasingly thinking of backyard renovations. The top emerging design for 2026 backyard renovations is custom decks, specifically ones that are multi-level.
Clients are increasingly asking for decks that move beyond a single flat platform, using two or three levels to create distinct zones for dining, lounging and grilling. Multi-level designs work especially well on Central Pennsylvania’s rolling lots, where natural grade changes can be turned into intentional design features rather than obstacles. Stepped transitions, built-in deck benches and wider stair runs are all common requests inside these multi-level builds.
Modern deck railing is reshaping how new decks look from the street and from the backyard. Cable railing, glass panel railing and slim aluminum railing systems have largely replaced traditional wood balusters, opening up sight lines and giving decks a cleaner, more contemporary design.
