A recent survey provides concrete data that we already know—for the past year and a half, while Covid-19 has kept many of us isolated at home, our outdoor space has become a primary living space in a number of ways. With most people spending much more time at home, and vacations either restricted or canceled, more emphasis is being placed on having an adequate space to enjoy the outdoors.
Inside-Outside Living
When designing a home, many clients are embracing indoor-outdoor living. The easiest way to achieve this is by adding ample windows and doors to a custom home. While in the past a set of sliding doors was the primary egress from the back of a home, today there are many alternatives to these standard doors and sliders. For example, accordion walls can be arranged quickly and easily to allow for maximum space and flexibility. Other possibilities include the addition of hinged or pocket doors. The connection between home and outdoors creates a sense of a larger living area and allows the relaxing atmosphere of the outdoors to enter the home.
Outdoor Living Spaces
Being outdoors has become one of the safer places for people to gather and socialize over the past year. In fact, over 80 percent of those who responded to a survey about outdoor living trends said that hosting friends and family is the most common use for outdoor living spaces. There are many choices of types of outdoor spaces, including porches and patios. What is the difference? Porches can help improve the curb appeal of your home while allowing for a place to gather and entertain in any weather. Located at ground level, patios allow access to the rest of the yard and to the house itself. Patios also have the option of being covered, allowing them to be used during rainy or cooler days. Combined, they give you a lot of options to choose from for where you’ll entertain or use the space.
Outdoor Kitchens
When asked, 65 percent of American homeowners between the ages of 35 to 44 responded that an outdoor kitchen is the most important feature of an outdoor space. Meal prep and cooking are made much easier by installing an outdoor kitchen, complete with a prep area, outdoor sink, and small refrigerator for the essentials. For those who are not ready to commit to a full kitchen (or space does not allow), customized outdoor bars are a popular choice of homeowners (42 percent of those surveyed).
Firepits and Outdoor Heating
For those who are ready to embrace outdoor living in all seasons, firepits and heating fixtures can help extend the outdoor living season. As far as firepits, there are many important design and safety choices to consider so that the area becomes a highlight of your garden. An added bonus: since outdoor heaters are portable, they can easily be stored away when the temperatures heat up.
From outside living areas to full outdoor living areas, Artisan Builders designs outdoor spaces for time with your family and friends in mind. Please visit our website for more inspiration.
