How to Expand Your Outdoor Living Space

 

To most of us, our outdoor living space is just as valuable as indoor space. Whether it’s grilling a meal out on the deck, enjoying a family get-together on the patio, or watching life pass by from a front porch swing, maximizing our outdoor living spaces can increase our sense of joy and well-being.

But what if your outdoor space is too small to accommodate your entire family and guests? And what if it’s too chilly for comfort as colder temperatures set in? Here are some ideas on how to expand your outdoor living space—and keep it warm in the process.

Expand—and Enchant—an Existing Space           

Expand your small patio with an addition. A good way to do this is with a stamped concrete overlay, which can be installed over your existing patio so that it blends seamlessly with the addition. If you wish to expand your small deck but it’s not feasible to lengthen or widen it, consider adding a new level that you can connect to the original deck by stairs. Or, adding pavers to expand your usable space is a popular and affordable option. If you don’t have the skills to do these additions (most people don’t), ask your friends and neighbors to refer a contractor that specializes in the process.

Create an Outdoor Kitchen

Lavish your living space with the addition of an outdoor kitchen that will be the center of your grilling activities. Enhance your grill area with a small refrigerator and cabinets for storage, as well as durable countertops for food prep activities and to serve your meals. And, when coupled with a covering it can be used year-round.

Add Functional Furnishings

Outdoor spaces become more functional when you furnish them like you would an indoor living space. Consider weather-proof sectional sofas and a matching love seat or cushioned chair to accommodate a half-dozen or more guests. Or, install an outdoor swing bed to cozy up and relax or nap.

Make Use of the Entire Yard

Complement your outdoor living environment with the rest of the yard by beautifying the area with landscaping and setting apart a “play” section with favorites like lawn darts, croquet, and  badminton. Install a walkway with stepping stones, set off by gravel or grass, to lead people to a garden, gazebo, or pergola with additional outdoor seating. Perhaps even include a hammock in a serene, secluded spot for those who would like a peaceful, uninterrupted snooze.

Use Outdoor Lighting

Select from a variety of innovative lighting options to make your outdoor space useable during nighttime hours. Many people use stringed lights or lanterns, but if it’s within your budget, consider installing outdoor pendant lighting fixtures. These fixtures add a real touch of elegance to your outdoor living areas.

Add Warmth

Add warmth to an outdoor space with a fire pit, outdoor fireplace, or decorative patio heaters. Another option is the use of radiant heated floors for decks and patios. A soothing hot tub is an instant way to warm yourself up on a chilly night and beckon you and your family to the great outdoors.

These improvements will allow you to expand your enjoyment of outdoor living. Make the most of your exterior living spaces, and you’ll love your home—both inside and out.

Consider these ideas for integrating your Jacuzzi® Hot Tub into the perfect backyard setting.