Top 10 Outdoor Living Spaces

More than ever before, homes feature outdoor living areas. The American Institute of Architects reported that two-thirds of architects were hired to design outdoor living spaces. Home owners want them. Home buyers expect them.

They’re also a great way to add value to your home. Proper planning and modern materials can transform a plain yard into multi-functional living spaces. Careful selection of finishing touches and accessories can take an outdoor space from a basic patch of grass to a luxurious retreat. Simple or lavish, above all, outdoor spaces must be functional.

Creating comfortable, practical, usable outdoor living spaces is an investment most home owners are willing to make. They are taking the inside out when it comes to using exterior space. Everything from plasma TVs and surround sound systems to fully functional kitchens and dining rooms can now be found beyond the back door. In fact, successful outdoor “rooms” should complement and serve as an extension of the interior living space.

Porches. From a covered entry to a backyard portico, these time-honored outdoor extensions provide shelter and welcome. According to the National Association of Home Builders, more than half of new homes built in the Midwest, West and South in 2006 had porches.
Decks. Still one of the most popular and affordable outdoor features, the deck has evolved from a modest rectangle of boards to a multi-faceted transition from interior to exterior, between exterior rooms or as rooms themselves, with bump-outs defining eating and sitting areas. Built-in benches and planter boxes add practical detail. Over the past five years, the size of the typical deck has increased by about 40 percent. The range of materials has also grown from traditional pressure-treated lumber to exotic Brazilian woods and low-maintenance composites.
Patios. In place of or in addition to decks, patios provide level, finished surfaces that are perfect for eating and sitting areas as well as walkways and pool decks. The most common materials include concrete (which can be stamped and/or stained), brick pavers and a variety of natural stone. Color choices are almost as limitless as size and design options.
Pergolas, arbors and gazebos. Raising the roof on style, these structures provide shade and room definition. Built from wood or low-maintenance vinyl kits, they can be decorated with vines or draped with sail cloth. A current twist on the traditional trend sees owners finishing off these outdoor ceilings, rather than leaving the beams exposed for dappled sunlight. Attached ceiling fans can further decrease the heat in these alfresco living spaces.
Fire features. One of the “hottest” trends in outdoor living involves the addition of a fire feature, including everything from a portable gas fire pit to a stone fireplace. The ability to install fire features on patios, porches and decks has increased their popularity. A Propane Education & Research Council survey reported that fireplaces, fire pits and patio heaters are three of the top five most popular outdoor features. Not only do they create an enticing focal point, but they can extend the outdoor living season in many climates.
Outdoor kitchens. According to an AIA 2007 Home Design Trends survey, 63 percent of architects report an increase in client request for outdoor kitchens. These days, outdoor kitchens can be every bit as elaborate as any interior chef’s kitchen, complete with refrigerator, ice maker, sink, dishwasher, pizza oven and upscale gas grill with multiple stainless steel burners, warming drawer and rotisserie built into the outdoor hardscape. A modern and more affordable twist on the outdoor kitchen is the dedicated grilling station with its own counter. Typically, the cooking area is at least partially covered and features a natural stone countertop.
Water features. Water gardens and fountains reconnect outdoor living areas with nature. Pondless fountains provide a low-maintenance source of calming waterfall sounds, while ponds filled with plants and koi or goldfish delight other senses as well.
Pools. Narrow in-ground lap pools for serious swimmers or large above-ground splash pools for family fun, these backyard heat beaters are a perennial favorite. Modern upgrades include radiant-heated pool decks and heated towel racks.
Hot tubs. This outdoor amenity can soak away the day’s tensions or host a party. The modern update is the swim spa, adding dual-purpose versatility in tight spaces.
Sport courts and putting greens. The emerging popularity of “stay-cations” has Americans creating luxurious oases by combining resort-style features with the cozy ambiance of home. Whether your sport is golf, tennis, basketball or skateboarding, doing it at home just makes sense.

Lori Lovely is a real estate contributor for the Indianapolis real estate website of ICON Realty Partners, LLC. The website, located at www.indyhomespecialist.com, features helpful information about buying and selling homes in any market.

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