Trends &Topics -

I always tell everyone to build larger than you think you may need because people always add more items than they think they will or might add. 

Outdoor Kitchens - Hot item today as more people are living more of the Patio life.  Water, gas, electrical utility is normally used within a outdoor kitchen. Several different build options today and then some portable pre-build kitchen islands are also available. 

Outdoor Bars - Can be built in several forms and fashions.  Normally just a single slopped design with a metal pitched roof with some type of counter structure and bar stools around the bar and got to have a TV behind to bar. Create your own sports bar in your own backyard. 

Entrainment - Outdoor TVs and Projectors are being used today along with internet streaming services as well. 

Water and Fire Feathers - Water and Fire features especially the one with gas is all the rage today.   

Outdoor Furniture - Today are investing into outdoor furniture so they a new patio to protect it. That is what we do!

Spring is here, summer is around the corner, and many homeowners are beginning to think about how best to make the most of their outdoor living spaces. After the previous two summers have driven home the need for a versatile and welcoming outdoor space, many people have begun to view them differently. Today’s backyards aren’t just grassy areas for the kids to play in; they’re filled with amenities and luxuries that can transform it into your own personal oasis.

Outdoor living areas are now being used for cooking, dining, and entertainment on a scale that hasn’t been seen before. This is leading more people to change up their spaces and work to create an area that will meet all of their needs, as diverse and multi-functional as needed. 

To help you in this endeavor, we have surveyed 40 top experts in the home design field to find out what the latest trends in outdoor living are for the summer of 2023. Read on to get inspiration and ideas that will help you make the most of your outdoor living space this year.

• 87% of experts say the pandemic is still influencing people’s investment decisions. 
• Creating year-round usable spaces remains a top priority.
  
• 56% believe that creating indoor spaces outside is a top trend for homeowners.
  
• Comfortable outdoor furniture is the top outdoor living feature, 69% of experts say. 
  
• 56% agree that saltwater pools are the biggest pool trend.
  
  

62% of experts believe that the biggest priority for homeowners when it comes to outdoor living spaces in 2023 is creating a space for year-round use.

This means making spaces such as patios, gazebos, pavilions, and outdoor kitchens that can be used no matter what the temperature or time of year. For those in warm climates, these spaces may not change much, but for those in colder climates, making the space usable all year long means incorporating things like firepits, space heaters, outdoor fireplaces, adequate lighting, covers to help keep the elements out, or even creating four season spaces. By incorporating these kinds of features, it increases the usage of the space, and gives you a place to entertain all year long. For many people, investing in an outdoor living area may not be worth it if it can only be used for short stretches, so investing in the added elements needed to make it more comfortable to use in the colder months of the year can help justify the initial expense.

56% of experts say that creating an indoor space outside is also a popular trend. This ties in well with the previous trend of creating a space you can use year-round; by creating a usable outdoor living space, you are adding more usable square footage. If your family is spending more time at home, having an outdoor living space - or an indoor space recreated outside like an outdoor living room - can give you more space to spread out and vary your surroundings at any time of year.

33% of experts also agree that creating a calming outdoor environment is important as well. It could be that people are looking at their exterior living spaces as a way to escape and relax after the turbulence and uncertainty of the last few years.

Finally, some experts also feel that sustainability is going to be important to homeowners as well. With climate change also a growing concern right now, sustainability is also something that many people may be considering as they invest in their homes.

Outdoor dining is one of the most popular ways to use an exterior space. Dining is more than just about food; it’s also a way to gather with others or to relax and enjoy yourself.  Dining outdoors gives you a new perspective from your normal indoor routine.  And outdoor dining areas can also be used for more than just eating; tables and seating areas can be used for work, studying, or meeting with friends.

Outdoor kitchens also tie in with the outdoor dining trend. These spaces were very popular in 2023. They remain popular this year as well: 41% of experts say outdoor kitchens will be the biggest trend. An outdoor kitchen and dining area means you can cook, eat, and entertain all in one area.

Outdoor living rooms are the must-have feature this year, according to most of experts. Outdoor living areas give you a space to entertain and relax with family and friends or alone. 

With additions like fire pits or outdoor fireplaces, they can also be used year-round, which increases their appeal and value. This is another area that can be combined with outdoor kitchens or dining areas to create a more complete outdoor living space.

Finally, people are also beginning to invest in spaces such as outdoor screen rooms, bars, and offices, expanding the potential for outdoor living to include more ways to work and entertain.