The Biggest Trends for Outdoor Spaces
Outdoor spaces are now at the forefront of homeowners’ home improvement plans.
According to Men’s Journal,
1. Homeowners Are More Invested Than Before
In the current landscape, homeowners are more invested in the design and construction of their outdoor features than ever before. According to Fixr.com’s annual Outdoor Living Trends report, 70% of experts say an updated, usable outdoor living space significantly impacts home value. Plus, consumers are willing to spend a quarter of their home improvement budget on outdoor living spaces. That’s to say, they’re taking the time to gather multiple builder quotes, comparing products, and doing more on the backend to prepare for their outdoor projects. This also includes conducting extensive research on products and builders, and making well-informed decisions on higher-density projects to ensure their outdoor areas reflect their personal aesthetic. “Clients were really willing to do things online, and they wanted that level of separation—but now it’s come full-circle, where they want to meet with us first.” shares Catherine Lippincott from Premier Outdoor Living. “They want to do a hands-on, and talk through everything. It’s nice—it brings back a personal touch.” This shift signifies a move towards more intentional design choices, and the importance of trust and reliability between homeowners and contractors to manage quality, functionality, and a cohesive, modern design that enhances their overall living experience.
2. Outdoor Wellness Has Taken a Front Seat
Health and wellness have become central themes in outdoor living design. Homeowners are increasingly incorporating features such as hot tubs, saunas, and plunge pools into their outdoor spaces. These outdoor elements aren’t just about luxury; they represent a commitment to a healthier lifestyle and a desire to create a personal oasis at home. “In my area, hot tubs are very, very popular right now,” shares Jonathan Moeller, Colorado Custom Covers & Decks. “At least twice a week when I go out to do estimates and bidding, people ask about putting a hot tub on their deck, and they want to sink it.” Outdoor wellness features provide a retreat from daily stress and promote physical and mental well-being. It’s no wonder consumers are making them a sought-after addition to modern exterior spaces.
3. Architectural Features Are Back in Demand
Consumers look to structural elements that support functional design trends in their indoor-outdoor living spaces. While fixated on versatility and durability, the use of posts and frames, such as for pergolas and covered porches, allow homeowners to integrate outdoor lighting and string lights, greenery, and patio furniture (like hanging chairs) seamlessly. “We’ve been doing features like columns on a lot of our projects,” notes Sean Collinsgru, Premier Outdoor Living. “It’s a different way to accentuate the structure, and it adds a vertical element to tie the whole space together.” This trend highlights the creative potential delivered by features like ambient lighting, composite deck boards, and other recycled materials used to enhance outdoor architecture.