It’s no secret that outdoor living spaces remain one of the biggest must-have features for both new homes and remodels. The upward swing that began during the pandemic has continued, but also begun to evolve as homeowners seek elements that speak to their needs and lifestyles. They’re being thoughtful about planning the layouts of their decks, patios, and gardens, and are recognizing the opportunities to create spaces that connect with nature and enhance wellness while also expanding their livable footprint.
Here’s a look at some of the design elements and products that are trending with homeowners.
1. Indoor Appeal: Creating seamless transitions from indoors to out has been popular for some time, especially with the rise of multi-panel windows and doors and the growing ability to coordinate flooring with decking materials. This trend has expanded to include the infusion of indoor comforts into outdoor spaces. We’re seeing this with decks that are visually separated into “rooms” using decking patterns, planters, or rugs; in furniture that emulates interior styles; and in lighting, entertainment, and smart-tech options that create just the right combination of ambience, convenience, and security.
2. Railings Are Getting Love: Deck railings were sometimes an afterthought, but not anymore. Beyond just the safety and code compliance they provide, deck railings can add their own wow factor to the outdoor living space. Whether with an eye-catching color, a material that preserves or enhances views, or accessories like drink rails and gates that add function without sacrificing looks, thoughtful railing options can have an impact on the overall feel of the deck.
3. Easier Installation: With labor shortages still a leading challenge for builders and remodelers, products that are more efficient to install can help keep crews moving. Pros and DIYers alike have more options than ever for hidden fasteners that deliver a seamless look, as well as for railing kits that help eliminate over- or under-ordering while saving assembly time on site.
4. Low-Maintenance Materials: One trend that’s here to stay is demand for materials that don’t require a ton of upkeep. Decking products that offer the look of wood but don’t need to be painted or stained mean homeowners have more time to enjoy their weekends.
5. Easier Selection: Homeowners have more choices for decking and railing than ever. And that’s a good thing—but it also can potentially overwhelm buyers. Manufacturers are offering new approaches to product naming and decision trees to make it simpler to narrow down the options. In addition, online design tools help buyers see how their decking and railing selections will look on their homes beforehand.
6. Health & Wellness: Outdoor living spaces are the perfect place for homeowners to escape while expanding on their hobbies and health goals. This includes areas for yoga, meditation, and home gardening. In fact, a recent report by online landscape design firm Yardzen found a 22% increase in interest in privacy-driven features such as fences, hedges, and secluded outdoor spaces. The report also noted that requests for outdoor showers are up 29%, outdoor fitness spaces have increased 15%, and saunas and cold plunge pools are up 8% and 9%, respectively.
7. Year-Round Use: A combination of product development and demand have made it easy for homeowners to add features to expand the useability of their outdoor spaces well into the evening and into the colder months. Lighting combinations with smart sensors, growing options for outdoor heaters, and beautiful fireplace and fire pit options are just a few examples.
8. Greater Resilience: With concerns about droughts and hotter temperatures growing, expect consumers to pay closer attention to native plants and xeriscaping options that require less water and maintenance, as well as products that resist heat and UV rays. Similarly, shading elements and/or a blending of covered and uncovered spaces are likely to become a must-have.
These are just a few of the trends driving interest in outdoor living spaces. As homeowners seek to expand their living area and create opportunities to escape, expect interest in these projects to continue to grow.
Adam Caplinger is director of sales for Envision Outdoor Living Products, manufacturer of Envision composite decking and Fairway Railing collection. Learn more at www.envisionoutdoorliving.com.
Photos courtesy of Envision Outdoor Living. In order shown: Envision Outdoor Living Products recently introduced E-Fit Railing Innovations, a series of railing products that when used together allow for installation times up to 300% faster; Envision Distinction capped composite decking in Spiced Teak with aluminum Fairway railings and 3-rail infill; Envision Distinction capped composite decking in Rustic Walnut with black composite Fairway railings, Drink Rail, and cable infill; Envision Ridge Premium capped composite decking in Alpine Fog with aluminum Fairway railings.
