All of us would love to have a nice outdoor living space, and it would not matter if it is big or small. As long as it is comfortable enough to make us feel relaxed, our outdoor living area would be a recreational haven for us and our loved ones.

    So, how can you turn your outdoor space into the perfect hangout where you can spend hours on end in a cozy chair, reading a book, with patio shades protecting you from the elements? Here are some ideas that you might find useful.


    1. Build a Patio or Terrace

    You have to build a patio or a terrace to have a living space right next to your house. It is about putting up a hard, flat surface in your backyard where you can set up furniture.

    You can build a patio or terrace from concrete, brick, and pavers. Pavers allow for unique patio designs with various shapes, sizes, textures, and colors. Brick and concrete are classic, long-lasting patio surface materials. Consider drainage when selecting materials.

    outdoor patio
    Image Credit: Canva

    When determining patio size, think about planned use. If mainly for dining and seating, a 14×16-foot patio could suffice. For dining, lounging, and entertaining, larger is better.

    Properly prepare the base beneath patio surface materials. Compact soil, fill low areas, and layer gravel before installing to prevent cracking and shifting.

    There are pros and cons to taking on a DIY patio project versus hiring a professional contractor that the average homeowner should consider. DIY patios require significant labor, certain tools, and skills but allow for customization and cost savings. Professional installation costs more yet handles all project tasks with expert techniques for quality results.


    2. Buy or Build Outdoor Furniture

    Once your patio is done, fill it with outdoor furniture like a dining set and fire pit seating for cooler months.

    Consider the weather when buying outdoor furniture. Is your area hot, dry, or windy? How often does it rain?

    Wood furniture splinters and cracks in hot, dry weather. Expect aluminum furniture to blow around in the wind. Wicker may rot early from rain and moisture.

    Or build outdoor furniture using upcycled/repurposed materials. This allows tailoring pieces precisely to your space. Upcycled items like wooden pallets, barrels, and metal drums can make stunning patio furniture in creative hands. Custom building saves money and results in unique, personalized pieces.


    3. Keep Things Cool or Warm

    In summer, patios can get uncomfortably hot. There are a few options to help regulate temperature for outdoor comfort depending on weather conditions. Keep cool with fans, patio shades, and misting systems. Or install heaters and fire pits when it is too cold.

    Drop shades mount above the seating, blocking sunlight while allowing breeze flow. Retractable awnings offer customizable shade coverage. Misting systems release cooling mist from specialized tubing and nozzles. Some systems also include LED lighting.

    Today’s Homeowner Tips

    Install electric patio heaters and fire pits for when the weather is too cold. Freestanding heaters provide targeted warmth without taking up floor space. Fire pits instantly create a cozy atmosphere. Choose area-approved outdoor fire pit styles.


    4. Prioritize Privacy

    You cannot relax if neighbors readily see into your space. Surround the property with tall, fast-growing trees or simple fences for privacy.

    Privacy
    Image Credit: Canva

    For natural privacy screening, plant fast-growing trees like arborvitae and bamboo close together as opaque barriers. Fences also define space while blocking sight lines. Solid panel fences best obscure views. Alternating overlapping boards allow a breeze while obscuring views. Attach bamboo fencing atop neighbor fences to increase screen height.

    Note that planting fast-growing trees for natural barriers takes some years to provide intended privacy screening, whereas you can erect fences quickly for more instant results.

    DIY projects take skills and patience but help you customize your space. Home designers draw plans optimizing footprint and flow if you lack time or skills. Landscape designers incorporate plantings and hardscapes.


    So, Is Outdoor Living Space Worth the Investment?

    Creating an outdoor living space requires a substantial initial investment of your time, effort, and money. But the payoff is years of enjoyment in your personal backyard oasis. As your needs change over time, a well-designed space accommodates relaxing, dining, and entertaining over time. Upgrading your outdoor area leads to better living overall.

    Outdoor spaces also boost home values. Patio and landscaping upgrades bring higher returns than other remodeling projects. Home buyers today expect outdoor living areas, so upgrading yours can mean faster sales and increased sale prices.


    FAQs About Outdoor Living Spaces

    What Percentage of Homeowners Have an Outdoor Living Space?

    Per HomeAdvisor, 83% of homeowners have designated outdoor living spaces.


    How Much Does Building an Outdoor Living Space Cost?

    Costs depend on the size and components chosen. Budget $3,000 to $8,000 for a basic patio installation. Add $1,000 to $4,000 or more for quality patio furniture or custom DIY builds. Landscaping and add-ons like kitchens, fireplaces, and water features quickly increase project investment.


    What Are 5 Essential Outdoor Space Features?

    1. Patio surface – concrete, pavers, composite decking
    2. Comfortable furniture
    3. Shade sources like canopies and umbrellas
    4. Decor elements, including rugs, plants, and lighting
    5. Privacy fences or screening


    How Can I Build Outdoor Living Spaces Economically?

    Pursue DIY projects when possible. Buy used furniture, grow annuals instead of buying mature landscaping, use string lighting over installed fixtures, and hold off on built-ins like cabinetry/kitchens initially. Repurpose what you already own before large purchases.


    Editorial Contributors
    avatar for Jonathon Jachura

    Jonathon Jachura

    Contributor

    Jonathon Jachura is a two-time homeowner with hands-on experience with HVAC, gutters, plumbing, lawn care, pest control, and other aspects of owning a home. He is passionate about home maintenance and finding the best services. His main goal is to educate others with crisp, concise descriptions that any homeowner can use. Jon uses his strong technical background to create engaging, easy-to-read, and informative guides. He does most of his home and lawn projects himself but hires professional companies for the “big things.” He knows what goes into finding the best service providers and contractors. Jon studied mechanical engineering at Purdue University in Indiana and worked in the HVAC industry for 12 years. Between his various home improvement projects, he enjoys the outdoors, a good cup of coffee, and spending time with his family.

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    photo of Andrew Foligno

    Andrew Foligno

    Andrew Foligno is an editor for Today’s Homeowner, with over 6 years of experience working in digital marketing. He started his career as a content writer at an agency, covering industries such as HVAC, plumbing, painting, lawn care, and more. Soon, he was promoted to an editor position where he oversaw a team of writers before moving on to other facets of digital marketing. When he isn’t working, Andrew enjoys going to the gym to be active, as well as going to the movies to unwind.

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