If you're interested in outdoor living trends, you've come to the right place. We're breaking down what we know about consumer habits as it relates to outdoor living space, patio space, trends in outdoor furniture, landscaping, and smart home elements. As Houzz shared in its 2024 U.S. Houzz & Home Study, 53% of homeowners made updates to their spaces last year, and that trend isn't looking to change, so let's see what's on the horizon. Deckorators, a leading provider of outdoor living solutions, also shared insight into consumer shifts in the summer edition of its Outdoor Living Report with insights from top deck, dock, and interior design professionals.
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.
4. Homeowners Are Gravitating to Color Blocking with Decking
Color blocking brings vibrancy and personality to outdoor spaces, and homeowners have been growing to appreciate how unique color combinations can create stark contrasts that add depth and definition to their decks. This design technique not only enhances the visual appeal but also allows for personal expression. Whether it's bold, bright hues or subtle, complementary shades, color blocking with decking can create a unique look. "It just ties everything together," shares Moeller.
5. Retractable Pool Covers Help Homeowners Make the Most of Small Spaces
The concept of retractable decks is revolutionizing how homeowners think of multifunctional spaces – for some homeowners, it effectively creates patio space where once was none. These innovative outdoor designs allow for more flexible spaces that can be easily adapted to various needs. "Movable decking is innovative because it creates livable square footage," shares Lior Ohayon, Adept Builders & Design and R3TRACT. "That's something that a lot of people in Los Angeles and other urban places definitely have a need for. We've seen a big rise in inquiries for these products, and clients are curious to know what they can achieve." The S-LIDE™ Sliding Deck Pool Cover by Azenco Outdoor is another product we’ve seen highlighted; it was even named a finalist in the Best Outdoor Product category at IBS this year. With retractable decks, an outdoor living zone can include integrated outdoor furniture, decor, and even an inground pool, providing a seamless transition between different outdoor activities. This trend underscores the desire for multifunctional outdoor spaces that maximize usability and comfort.
6. A New Front Porch Design Creates a Better Sense of Community
In an era dominated by digital interactions, the front porch is making a comeback as a social hub. Homeowners are designing their front porches to be comfortable, inviting spaces that encourage neighborly interaction and community building. Speaking of a client who received a new front porch, Collingsgru shared "All of her neighbors are really close and friendly, and she loves to spend time on the porch in the mornings and as kids come home from school." This trend emphasizes the renewed importance of in-person connections and how outdoor spaces foster a sense of belonging and community.
7. Outdoor Living Rooms and Transitional Zones Are Here to Stay
Consumers continue to evolve their outdoor living areas to include formal seating for living and dining, and Millenials and Gen Xers continue to buy more of it, according to Houzz. Additionally, consumers of all ages are fixated on artwork and indoor/outdoor rugs to bring more personality and comfort to their outdoor spaces.
To enhance outdoor living, Deckorators told us in its Contractor Insights Survey that homeowners are leaning into transitional zones. features like pergolas, built-in seating, retractable screens, and covered decks were top-of-mind for both comfort and privacy.
As it relates to fire pits, we're on the fence: Many homeowners are willing to invest in hardscaping with permanent fireplace setups, while others still favor a smokeless fireplace like the popular Solo Stove (now available with an extended surround). Still more get their fix of natural flame from efficient torches, like the Mesa Torch, placed around a patio or landscape.
8. Homeowners Aspire to Have an Amazing Outdoor Kitchen
73% of professionals agree outdoor kitchens remain the most in-demand feature, according to Fixr.com’s annual Outdoor Living Trends report, plus, the annual Kitchen and Bath Industry Show is a great way for us to take a closer look at trends and consumer demand. "We noticed that outdoor kitchen innovation had a major influence [at this year's show]," noted Mason Watkins, Director of Marketing at ZLINE. He goes on to note that ZLINE's collection of wine coolers and beverage centers was well-received, adding "These models are equipped with an all-stainless steel interior and exterior, spacious storage, adjustable shelving, panel-ready capabilities, and multiple temperature zones." Durability in outdoor kitchens is important, and the home chef looks to create a space that can flex to meet their needs.
Urban Bonfire, a high-performance outdoor kitchen and entertainment solution brand announced its collaboration with the Dekton line from Cosentino. “[The Urban Bonfire x Dekton collection] is all about providing luxurious, easy-to-use outdoor kitchens that look great in any space," shared Stefan Marchant, Chief Designer and Co-Founder of Urban Bonfire. "Moreover, we've placed a strong emphasis on the balance of textures in our designs, incorporating materials that not only endure the elements but also add a tactile dimension to the outdoor cooking experience." Dekton Ukiyo, a fluted collection from Cosentino by design expert Claudia Afshar is showcased as one of the cladding options. The collaboration complements with added elegance, durability, and aesthetic appeal. "This partnership is working to rethink and redefine the outdoor kitchen and they have done so beautifully," adds Celerie Kemble in the Home and Design Trendspotting Report by the NKBA Design Council.
The Urban Bonfire x Dekton collection features:
- A built-in grill, designed and manufactured by Fògher in Italy
- Fully integrated outdoor under-counter refrigeration units, with matching door panels
- An integrated Pitt Cooking power burner
- A sleek and functional sink with a drop-down faucet
TREX Outdoor Kitchens also released Trex Ready™, the brand's first-ever collection of preset kitchen layouts. The brand nailed design versatility and made the product available in six different configurations, and six different colors. Outfit your exterior space with one of these these stainless steel, powder-coated outdoor kitchen units. They scale from 76-1/2" wide to an expansive 142", accommodating features including a grill, counter space, sink, refrigerator, drawers and cabinet storage, and more.
Consumers aren't overlooking accessories for their outdoor kitchens, either. Expect to see backyard kitchens expand to include pizza ovens and grills and smokers. The best outdoor projects also work to create seamless transitions between indoor-outdoor spaces, and include features and design trends like module seating, outdoor lights, and retractable awnings.
9. Smart Outdoor Technology Integration is Essential
Smart spaces aren't just for indoors. From automated irrigation systems to outdoor televisions, homeowners are keen to embrace smart technology to enhance their outdoor experience. Furthermore, consumers are putting extra emphasis on outdoor lighting — 22% of all renovating homeowners told Houzz that outdoor lighting was top-of-mind for their remodel.
10. Outdoor Security Adds Peace of Mind
"Across outdoor system renovations, lighting leads in popularity among renovating homeowners at 22%," notes Houzz. "Security enhancements (such as installing cameras or sensors), however, are not far behind at 18%" The report adds, "Among outdoor security cameras, smart versions dominate (25%). In fact, only 3% of renovating homeowners install outdoor cameras that are not manageable via a mobile device." Additionally, the growing popularity of accenting the home and landscape with a combination of uplights and downlights has many homeowners excited about making their home look its best after dusk.
11. Homeowners Favor Sustainable Landscaping
As environmental consciousness grows, so does the trend towards sustainable landscaping. Many consumers around the country are influenced to rewild areas of their yard, and many more are focused on incorporating native plants, drought-resistant vegetation, and low-maintenance plants that require less water and chemical inputs.
It's no surprise that rain barrels, permeable paving, and eco-friendly irrigation systems are also gaining popularity. With an eye to reducing environmental impact, consumers and homeowners are continuing to design beautiful, resilient outdoor spaces that thrive with minimal intervention.
12. They Also Favor Sustainable Furniture
From acadia wood to reclaimed furnishings, consumers are drawn towards materials that are well-manufactured and designed to last. Choosing the right materials matters, which is why we keep coming back to the new Carl Hansen & Søn collection at Room & Board. Designed by Alfred Homann, this Forest Stewardship Council®-certified teak is characterized by strict lines and soft, rounded details. It's been a minute since the Hansen Group collaborated with Room & Board, and we hope they stick around awhile.
