Since the COVID-19 pandemic, outdoor living has become increasingly popular, from dining to gardening to relaxing. Nearly 90% of Americans value spending ample time on their patios, decks, porches, and backyards — yet 88% are unhappy with their current setup.
Naturally, those who underutilize their outdoor space may wonder how to get more use out of their patio or deck — even better would be the ability to use it year-round or at least throughout most seasons. Are you ready to create the outdoor living space of your dreams? Here are seven ways to liven your deck or patio.
Enclose the Space
Enclosing your patio and deck is a great way to get more use out of your space. Turning your patio into a sunroom with glass windows will make you feel like you’re outside but with the comforts of indoor heating and cooling — ideal for winter. Additionally, a screened-in deck prevents mosquitoes and other bugs in the summer.
If you decide to enclose the space with windows, the treatment you use matters. Applying a decorative film will cut utility costs by blocking excessive sunlight and heat from entering the room. It also can protect your household’s occupants from harmful ultraviolet rays.
Create a Patio Herb Garden
Why not start a new hobby if you’re unsure what to do with your patio or deck? A patio herb garden is straightforward. It’s also a fun project for cooking enthusiasts to grow culinary herbs for their favorite dishes.
Fortunately, you don’t need ample space for a patio herb garden. Just ensure wherever you put your herb garden receives plenty of sunlight. Herbs need about five to six hours of direct sunlight daily to thrive. You can also give your herbs a bit of height by placing them on tables and stands.
Although excellent options for growing herbs, you can turn your patio herb garden into a work of art. Why not consider a vertical wall garden for visual appeal?
Include an Outdoor Feature
Some outdoor features are more practical than others. For example, homes in colder climates can’t use a backyard pool for very long — plus, you’ll spend $1,200 to $5,000 annually on pool maintenance for a feature you can only enjoy for a few months. A fire pit is a much better outdoor feature to get the most use out of your patio. Fire pits give off a nice amount of heat, meaning you can utilize your outdoor living area even when the temperatures drop.
Another outdoor feature to think about is a fountain. For those who enjoy meditation and yoga, relaxing with a good book or simply sitting and admiring nature, the trickling sounds of the water will help you relax.
Build an Outdoor Kitchen
If you have friends over for outdoor dining, you’ll likely feel separated from everyone else while preparing food in the kitchen. Of course, moving your cooking set-up outside can resolve that issue.
An outdoor kitchen is ideal for keeping everyone together while hosting. It’s more than having a barbecue — outdoor kitchens blend seamlessly into your patio or deck design, creating a cohesive look. Depending on how extravagant you want to make it, you could consider a built-in grill, pizza oven or full bar. A counter workspace and refrigeration are essential for keeping food fresh and easy preparation.
Add Comfortable Seating
According to Fixr’s Outdoor Living Trends 2022 survey, 69% of experts agree comfortable outdoor seating is a top priority for homeowners. It makes sense, considering how most people prefer to use their patio or deck.
Comfortable furniture makes the space cozier and more enjoyable for relaxation. You want guests to feel comfortable visiting and spending time with you outside. It’s also conducive to year-round use, which most people look forward to when enhancing their backyard patio or area.
Install an Outdoor Media Center
f your patio is covered, you may want to install an outdoor media center — this is easy enough to set up for entertainment. A console table will protect videos, players, games, and remotes when you’re not using them. An electrician can then hook up a television on your outdoor patio wall.
Many homeowners enjoy watching sports games outside during the spring and summer. You can even use the space for an outdoor movie night with friends and family.
Dine Al Fresco
Convert your patio or deck into a beautiful dinner escape. A large outdoor table, chairs, and umbrella are all you need to create an ideal space to eat al fresco. Of course, this presents several opportunities to enhance the deck or patio with decorative items.
Lush greenery, flowers, market lighting, and an area rug will help tie the space together for dinner parties with friends. You could also consider hosting a garden party in the spring to welcome the warmer months.
Love Your Outdoor Space
Your patio or deck should be a space you enjoy spending time in. Once it starts coming to life, you’ll want to utilize it for most seasons. Enclosing the area, adding a heat source and including elements for cozy outdoor living goes a long way in you loving your outdoor space.
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