Top Trends for Outdoor Living Spaces

Wellness experts approve when families spend more time outside because of the many benefits they can glean: exercise, vitamin D, a psychological boost, social interaction, and much more. Today’s homes are making it easier to get fresh air every day, with backyards that function as an extension of the interiors. Even the busiest lifestyles can get a regular dose of nature with these top trends for outdoor living spaces.

Biophilic Design

It may sound vaguely like a blood disease, but the term “biophilic” means a desire to commune with nature. You may have seen evidence of this connection with recent trends to bring more trees and plants indoors. Recently, designers have been manifesting this concept by building onto the natural elements already present. You can create your own backyard oasis with raised garden beds coexisting with the lush landscape without imposing anything artificial on it. That means that materials typically include only wood and stone, often to create a peaceful sense of refuge. One of the more popular features has been a “living wall” of plants, which is just as breathtaking outdoors bordering a patio. You can plan an elaborate vertical garden or just hang a variety of pots together for a similar effect.

Outdoor Living Rooms

Unsurprisingly, we are more inclined to spend time outside if it has the same comforts and amenities we’re used to inside. As such, rickety lawn chairs have given way to plush, substantial furniture that creates a backyard living room—sometimes literally, down to the outdoor televisions. Generous seating promotes conversation space, while daybeds and sectionals invite relaxed lounging and naps. With the protection of awnings, pergolas, or gazebos, they’re functional in a variety of weather conditions. Outdoor living rooms often feature natural barriers or a few walls and pillars that retain the open-air flow. Details like better lighting, rugs, and pillows complete a polished area. Soon, you’ll be thinking that the only thing it’s missing is proximity to an outdoor kitchen.

Fire and Water

Fire elements have been one of the top trends for outdoor living spaces for a long time. Families have become familiar with the appeal of gathering around a fire pit. The warmth and light mean that they can enjoy their yards later into the night and during colder months. Adding a fireplace can increase the value of your home, but lower commitment fire pit tables are modern and perfect for group dining. More recently, fire has been getting some competition from water elements that can turn a backyard into a resort or retreat. Fountains aren’t the only way to capture the soothing sounds of trickling water anymore. Adding a koi pond is a common way to inject some zen into the space, and integrated spillways and bowls set a calm, relaxing atmosphere. New homes are prioritizing water by including waterfalls in the landscaping and pool areas.