From patios to decks to porches, there is a growing demand for outdoor living spaces. They are not just functional, providing every home an extension to entertaining guests or relaxing with the family. But they are also an added feature to the entire property, creating opportunities for eye-catching design and architectural interest.
So much emphasis is placed on the form and functionality of outdoor living spaces that you can hardly distinguish the once neglected area apart from indoor spaces. Some of the more spectacular patios or porches look as complete as many living rooms or family rooms.
No longer will you see backyards with the usual outdoor furniture, made of plastic or some low-grade wood material, and the ubiquitous barbecue grill. These days, outdoor living spaces can look as swanky and comfortable as indoor spaces. And here are some of the more popular design trends you can apply to your own backyard.
The Outside Living Room
Outdoor furniture has resembled indoor furniture. Expect loveseats and loungers, even sectional sofas for outdoor living spaces. With advances in fabric technology, your upholstered outdoor furniture can be fade-resistant and waterproof, and pairing it with Factory Fast extendable patio awnings creates a shaded, comfortable retreat.
The Outdoor Kitchen
Who wouldn’t want to cook outdoors? Think Jamie Oliver and his awesome wood-burning oven and fresh herbs in pots and the grill, of course. For homeowners who can afford it, moving the kitchen outside or adding an outdoor kitchen could become a worthwhile investment considering how buyers tend to focus on kitchens for their decisions.
The most elaborate outdoor kitchens can come with refrigerators and sinks (with water line, naturally).
The Fire Pits
Forget fireplaces. Fire pits are all the rage these days, especially in locations where the air gets a bit chilly toward evening. This must-have outdoor design element provides lighting as well as cooking source. It also boosts your home’s ambience significantly. Think campfire atmosphere only in a sophisticated manner.
Water Elements
The swimming pool is still very popular. But lately, water elements have been taking over outdoor living spaces. From waterfalls to grottos, these features add a kind of calmness to the space as well as provide decorative element.
The Outdoor Shower
The kids will love this one because after getting all dirty from football practice or from playing in the yard, they can get cleaned up in your outdoor shower.
The Outdoor Entertainment System
A flat screen, an HD projector, and the right set of speakers will turn your backyard into your very own “drive-in” theatre. You can do themed movie nights (e.g., scarefest) or hold a gaming competition with the kids.
Low-Maintenance Garden
From native plants that do not require water to ground cover that thrive even in poor soil, many homeowners are keeping their yard word down to a minimum with the right elements.
You, too, can enhance your outdoor living with these top trends in design. If you’re on a budget, you can always add one trend at a time. Whether it’s summer or fall, your fully equipped, cleverly designed outdoor space will serve all your lifestyle needs.