Outdoor design has evolved into a deeply personal and purposeful endeavor. Homeowners are seeking sun-up to sundown gardens that cater to morning meditation, midday Zoom calls, and after-dinner drinks. They desire patios and terraces that effortlessly accommodate all-ages gatherings as well as intimate dinner parties. The goal is to create backyards that exude the luxury of five-star resorts, complete with amenities like bed swings.
In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the latest trends in outdoor design, offering insights on how to build the best version of your client’s dream green spaces. From chic storage solutions to chef-co-designed outdoor kitchens, we explore the industry outlook and provide tips to stay ahead of your clients’ next requests.
Creating a Resort-Style Backyard
A simple patio, grill, and outdoor table no longer suffice. Experts share their advice for creating amenity-rich outdoor spaces that evoke permanent vacation vibes. The key is to design spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also highly functional and inviting.
One of the top trends is the open-air pavilion, which offers shade and protection from the sun while remaining permeable to its surroundings. This design eliminates the need for walls, glass, and doors, reducing building cost and complexity. Another trend is incorporating lawns, planting beds, and mature shade trees around the pool to create a softer and more connected environment.
Designing the Dream Outdoor Kitchen
Flexibility, durability, and natural materials are top priorities for outdoor kitchens. Chef Jess Damuck and actor Ben Sinclair’s outdoor cooking area in LA serves as a prime example. The design process involved collaboration with a chef to ensure the space met the needs of both cooking and entertaining.
When designing an outdoor kitchen, it’s important to consider the layout and flow of the space. The kitchen should be easily accessible from the indoor kitchen to ensure seamless service and cleaning. Additionally, the use of natural materials can enhance the
Avoiding Common Outdoor Design Mistakes
Designers often advise their clients to avoid certain outdoor amenities that may not be practical or aesthetically pleasing. For example, enclosed poolhouses can be replaced with open-air pavilions that offer shade and protection while remaining inviting. Over-paved patios can be softened with lawns, planting beds, and mature shade trees.
Other amenities to avoid include bespoke permitting, which can be lengthy and complicated. Instead, opt for modular amenities like prefabricated saunas, plunge pools, or fountains. Cramped seating sets can be replaced with edited layouts that prioritize comfort and usability. Distant outdoor dining areas should be replaced with adjacent outdoor kitchens for easy accessibility.
Wood-burning fires may seem appealing, but gas-powered flames are often a more practical option. They are easier to turn on and off, making them more likely to be used. Additionally, it’s important to choose plants that are well-suited to the local climate and soil conditions to ensure they thrive with minimal maintenance.
Finally, designers are forgoing fixed LED walls and televisions in favor of retractable screens and subtle lighting. This approach preserves views and openness while still providing the necessary functionality.
