Create a Dynamic Outdoor Living Experience in Middle Tennessee

If you’re looking to make your backyard stand out this summer—and add serious functionality at the same time—multi-level decks with custom shade options are the way to go. Whether you’re hosting cookouts in Franklin, enjoying quiet mornings in Brentwood, or entertaining friends in Nolensville, having different zones for sun and shade on your deck makes every moment more comfortable.

At Decked Out Tennessee, we specialize in designing custom, multi-level deck systems that let you enjoy the best of both worlds: sun-soaked relaxation and cool, shaded retreat—all on one cohesive outdoor space.

🪵 What Is a Multi-Level Deck?

A multi-level deck is exactly what it sounds like: two or more connected deck levels at different elevations, each serving a unique purpose. They’re ideal for homes with sloped yards, walkout basements, or anyone wanting to break up their outdoor space into distinct zones.

Common deck zones include:

• Grilling/dining areas

• Lounge or conversation zones

• Shaded nooks with pergolas or privacy screens

• Upper balconies and lower garden walkouts

• Hot tub or fire pit corners

☀️ Why Combine Shade and Sun?

During Tennessee summers, temperatures can climb fast. A multi-level design allows you to strategically place pergolas, awnings, or shade sails on one section while keeping another area open to sunlight.

Benefits of combining shade and sun:

• Enjoy sunny breakfasts and shaded dinners

• Accommodate different preferences in one space

• Protect guests from midday heat

• Create visual contrast and architectural interest

• Add value and dimension to your backyard

🌿 Pergolas: Stylish Shade for Elevated Comfort

Pergolas add beauty and partial shade to any deck level. For multi-level designs, they work great on:

• Upper levels to provide shelter and design focus

• Lower lounge areas for cozy evening gatherings

• Attached side zones that feel like open-air rooms

Customize your pergola with:

• Retractable canopies

• Privacy screens

• Built-in fans or string lights

• Climbing vines or decorative panels

🛠️ Design Ideas for a Multi-Level Shade Deck

Here are a few design combos we love building for summer clients across Middle Tennessee:

• Dining up top, lounge below: Grill on the upper level under a pergola, then relax on a shaded, cushioned conversation area below.

• Sun deck + shaded escape: Enjoy full sun on one tier, and retreat to a covered reading spot or swing on another.

• Tiered entertaining: Host large parties with zones for mingling, eating, and relaxing—each with its own look and feel.

🏡 Build Smarter, Cooler, Better with Decked Out Tennessee

A multi-level deck isn’t just about looks—it’s about creating a space that fits your lifestyle. Whether you need shade for your kids to play, a peaceful spot for afternoon reading, or a sunny space for morning yoga, we can design it all into one connected, gorgeous layout.

We proudly serve Franklin, Brentwood, Nolensville, Spring Hill, and the surrounding areas with top-quality Trex and wood decks, pergolas, lighting, and custom features that turn backyards into destinations.

📞 Ready to design your summer-perfect deck?