Taking It Outside: Inspiring Trends for Outdoor Living

Homeowners seeking a greater connection with the outdoors need look no farther than their own backyards. Here is a roundup of some of the latest trends in outdoor living that you will want to use to give your own backyard a fresh style.

Outdoor fireplaces and fire pits have grown in popularity over the past few years. Who doesn't enjoy the coziness of entertaining friends and family around the warm glow of a fire? Beyond the aesthetics, fire pits and outdoor fireplaces allow us to linger longer outdoors during the cooler months. There are many styles available, ranging from smaller fire pit tables to large fireplaces. With safety a concern, buying a fire pit table made from weatherproof materials and run by natural gas or propane is recommended.

Hanging furniture rocks us into a state of instant relaxation. Porch swings, hanging daybeds, hanging chairs and hammocks are just a few of the options available. One thing to make sure of is that you have enough swinging space and a solid structure to support the weight of family and friends.

Multifunctional modular furniture offers an important way to maximize limited outdoor areas. Modular furniture is easy to move around the patio or deck to fit the occasion. This furniture can accommodate large parties or more casual gatherings, and it can even let the space double as a home office when the weather permits. If you have enough room, you can divide the patio into sections, each with a different purpose, such as for dining or lounging.

Eco-conscious outdoor furniture created with responsibly sourced materials has gone mainstream in recent years. Consumers are looking for furniture that can be recycled and is durable enough to last for many years. They support companies that generate little waste in the manufacturing process. Many companies manufacture all-weather furniture made from recycled plastic that closely resembles the look of wood but requires less maintenance.

Smart features have made their way into many aspects of everyday life, and outdoor living is no different. Electric smart umbrellas and canopies provide shade and have easy-to-use remotes. One umbrella offers such high-tech features as adjustable LED table lighting, surround sound speakers and a USB port for convenient device charging.

Outdoor kitchens have equipment so much more sophisticated than just a built-in grill. They have become more like second kitchens and can be equipped with outdoor-rated refrigerators, sinks, pizza ovens and ice makers. Outdoor kitchens allow the family chef to store, prep, cook, serve and entertain in one place without missing the fun.

Edible plants, fruits and vegetables have been grown in gardens for centuries. It's a trend that is just now starting to catch on among health-conscious homeowners. Edible herbs such as thyme and rosemary become part of the garden design when used as borders around flowers. Strawberries can be grown in planters. For first-time backyard gardeners, radishes, beans, beets, lettuce and peas are hardy vegetables that don't require a great deal of care. Use native and drought-resistant plants, and when possible, harvest rainwater to use in your garden.

The backyard as a wellness retreat is gaining interest among health-conscious homeowners. Outdoor spaces offer a natural and private place to practice yoga, read or meditate. Small outdoor pools for soaking or swimming laps are another way to enhance your backyard spa.

Studies have shown that spending time outdoors reduces anxiety, relieves stress and elevates our mood. Let's not forget that being outdoors is just plain old fun. Contact us for more motivating reasons for you to take it outside.

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Terry & Joe Scattergood