Outdoor Home Trends to Watch
Outdoor living spaces are more popular and profitable than ever for builders and remodelers. That’s because the porches and patios that have been in style for decades are evolving to become a practical extension of the home rather than a separate space.
One of the main reasons homeowners want an outdoor living space is for entertaining. Outdoor spaces appeal to baby boomers, who desire more room to host their friends, children and grandchildren, as well as millennials, who are willing to pay more for a spectacular outdoor space.
Being an expert in all things outdoor living can help you stand out among your competitors. But what are homeowners asking for? Here are three outdoor living trends:
Kitchen Extension
Nobody wants to be stuck inside prepping and cooking while their guests gather outside, which is why multiple kitchens are growing in popularity. According to a 2018 Houzz Landscaping Survey, homeowners want traditional indoor amenities in their outdoor kitchen and dining areas. This includes:
- Dining furniture
- Benches
- Ceiling fans
- Rugs
- LED lighting
It’s important to consider how consumers will use the space. Will it be used to prep food? To lightly cook? To host cocktail hour? For instance, homeowners who are more focused on entertaining and less on cooking might not need a full fridge, but could benefit from a KitchenAid® undercounter refrigerator to keep beverages and appetizers chilled or a wine cellar that filters out UV rays to maintain temperatures.
Accessible Connectivity
Homeowners want their outdoor spaces to do everything their indoor spaces can do, including broadcast the big game and play music for backyard get-togethers. According to the 2018 Houzz Landscaping Survey, 18 percent of homeowners upgraded their outdoor entertainment systems to include:
- Televisions
- Speakers
- Charging hubs
Noise-cancelling barriers might be needed by consumers who use their outdoor space late into the evening.
Garden Variety
Planting walls, or vertical gardens, and raised garden beds are trending in 2018 and add just as much beauty as they do functionality. Plant walls are ideal for intimate spaces and add lush greenery to the area. Decorative features such as arches and pergolas can bring even more sophistication to the space.
Raised garden beds, which can include anything from fruits and vegetables to herbs and flowers, offer homeowners a more comfortable way to garden, as they won’t have to get low to the ground in order to tend to their plants.
