After a year of being cooped up indoors, many people are looking to create an outdoor oasis to relax and unwind in. With the help of designers and manufacturers, there are plenty of options to choose from when it comes to designing a functional, stylish and comfortable outdoor living space.
Outdoor Living Trend Gaining Popularity
The outdoor living trend has been on the rise for the past decade, but the pandemic has brought it to the forefront. With people spending more time at home, manufacturers have made significant investments in products and materials geared towards outdoor living.
Designers are seeing a high demand for outdoor spaces that serve as a Soothing Refuge. Several highly sought-after elements of the garden design include fragrant plant arrangements, charming arbors, winding paths, a designated space for yoga, daybeds under a pergola, pre-built saunas, small swimming pools, an open-air shower, and durable outdoor furniture.
Outdoor Seating: Cozy and Weather-Friendly
Designers are now using durable materials and new technology to create weather-hardy furniture that looks just like interior furniture. For example, Room & Board’s Rayo outdoor sofas are made of sturdy, recycled, high-density polypropylene, with cushions covered in performance fabrics. Their modern silhouette takes them about as far from a folding aluminum lawn chair as you can get.
Homary and Article offer sectional sofas that come equipped with integrated side tables and convertible lounging features. Annie Selke recently introduced a collection of PVC rugs that are both fade-resistant and easy to clean, featuring lively geometric designs and colorful plaid patterns. Ruggable’s line of washable outdoor rugs showcases various styles including Southwestern, vintage traditional, and mid-century modern motifs.
Adding Shade and Extending Outdoor Living Season
A permanent roof over an outdoor living area increases the number of months it can be used, making it a worthwhile investment. Retractable, weatherproof fabric awnings in patterns that complement outdoor furnishings add an aesthetic and practical element. Patio umbrellas and gazebos are other options for adding temporary shade.
Heaters and fireplaces can extend the outdoor living season, and there are many options available beyond the standard pit-style fireplaces. Le Feu’s ovoid-shaped, steel fire vessels have a sexy ’70s vibe. Interiors maven Lauren Rottet has designed a dramatic fire pit out of a pillar of basalt, and there’s a calming, bubbly water fountain in the same collection.
Zen Amenities for Ultimate Relaxation
Yoga platforms, hot tubs, Japanese soaking tubs, and daybeds are no longer just found at resorts. People are bringing these amenities home to create their own Zen retreat. Portable saunas that require only a hookup to electricity are another option for creating a spa-like experience at home.
Cold plunge pools, in particular, have become popular with fitness enthusiasts who find the water restorative. The lozenge-shaped version is produced by Redwood Outdoors, whereas The Pod Company manufactures a barrel-shaped one. Both are portable, easy to assemble, and off-grid – just bring the water and a few bags of ice.
Basically, creating privacy in your outdoor space doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With a little creativity and some thoughtful design, you can transform your backyard into a private oasis that reflects your personal style and provides a relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
From green spaces to creative privacy solutions, there are countless ways to create a private outdoor retreat that you’ll love. Whether you’re looking for a natural barrier or a more innovative approach, the key is to design a space that is both functional and beautiful, and that reflects your unique personality and style.
