Outdoor living spaces are becoming increasingly popular as more and more homeowners look for ways to enjoy their yards and gardens to the fullest. A beautiful outdoor living space will enhance your home life in many ways.
But exactly what is an outdoor living space installation?
What Is An Outdoor Living Space?
An outdoor living space is an area outside the home that has been designed and built for leisure, entertaining, dining, or other activities. In short, an outdoor living space is an extension of your home that allows you to enjoy the outdoors without leaving the comfort of your own property.
Typical outdoor living spaces have the main structure made from wood or stone while another structure is made from the other material (like a stone patio with a wood pergola). Add a focal point and landscaping, and you’ll have a complete outdoor living space!
There are many different types of outdoor living spaces, from simple patios to elaborate multi-level decks with screened porches.
You can learn more about the cost of an outdoor living space installation here.
Types Of Outdoor Living Spaces
Let’s take a closer look at the different types of outdoor spaces for homes.
What Is An Outdoor Living Space Deck?
A deck is typically elevated and made of wood or composite material. A deck provides a more solid surface for furniture and can be used for dining, entertaining, or simply relaxing.
Decks can be attached to your home or built as a freestanding structure. Integrating a deck into your home’s design can create a seamless transition between the indoors and outdoors, providing you with the best of both worlds.
What Is An Outdoor Living Space Patio?
A patio is typically made from concrete, stone, or brick. Patios can be either attached to your house or standalone. They are a great way to create extra space for the outdoor entertaining season or simply for enjoying the outdoors.
When choosing a patio, it’s important to consider the amount of space you have available and how you plan on using it. For example, if you want to use it for entertaining guests, you’ll want to make sure it’s large enough to accommodate furniture and has enough seating for everyone.
If you’re looking for a more private space to relax in, you may want to choose a smaller patio or one that’s not attached to your house.
What Is An Outdoor Living Space Elevated Deck?
An elevated deck is a platform that is built on stilts or columns, typically raised several feet off the ground. This type of decking provides a number of benefits, both aesthetic and practical.
From a design perspective, an elevated deck creates a sense of spaciousness and can be a great way to take advantage of views. If you have a sloped lot, an elevated deck can provide level space for entertaining and relaxing.
In terms of function, an elevated deck is a perfect spot for entertaining, as it offers plenty of room for seating and dining. Since it’s raised off the ground, an elevated deck can also be a great way to enjoy your outdoor space without worrying about bugs or pests.
What Is An Outdoor Living Space Ground-Level Deck/Patio Combination?
As the name suggests, a ground-level deck/patio combination is a type of outdoor space that incorporates a deck and a patio.
By combining these two elements, you can create beautiful and functional outdoor spaces that can be used for entertaining guests, spending time with family, or simply enjoying the outdoors. It’s also the perfect solution if you can’t decide which type of outdoor space you prefer!
What Is An Outdoor Living Space Deck With A Full Or Partial Roof?
You can also install a deck with a full or partial roof. A roof over your deck can give you additional living space that can be used year-round, even in inclement weather. If you have outdoor furniture on your deck, it will last longer since it won’t be exposed to the elements.
A deck with a full roof will provide more protection from the elements, but it will also be more expensive and require more maintenance than a deck with a partial roof. A deck with a partial roof will still provide some protection from the elements and will be less expensive and easier to maintain than a deck with a full roof.
When deciding on the type of outdoor living area that is right for you, consider all of your options and choose the one that best fits your needs and budget.
What Is An Outdoor Living Space Deck With A Screened Porch (Or Sunroom)?
Patios aren’t the only type of outdoor living space that pairs well with a deck. A deck with a screened porch or sunroom combination is an outdoor living space that allows for protection from insects and weather while still enjoying the outdoors.
Although a screened porch and a sunroom both offer protection from pests and the elements, a sunroom generally has more windows and is less enclosed than a screened porch. However, both types of spaces can be furnished with comfortable furniture, rugs, and lighting to make them truly feel like an extension of your home.
Additional Upgrades
Here are some of the most popular upgrades for outdoor living spaces:
- Pergola or gazebo to add shade
- Hot tub or spa for relaxation
- Fire pits or fireplace for warmth and ambiance
- Types of outdoor lighting
- An outdoor kitchen or built-in grill
- Built-in seating
- TV set
Considerations When Designing Your Outdoor Living Space
When answering, “what is an outdoor living space?” you also have to determine what purpose the space will serve. Here are some important considerations to make when designing your outdoor living space:
Function: Do you want a place to relax and entertain guests or simply a spot for the kids to run and play?
Climate: If you live in an area with hot summers, you will want to make sure there is plenty of shade, while if you live in a colder climate, you will need to think about ways to keep the space warm–such as with a fire pit. No matter what your climate, though, it is important to choose materials that can withstand the elements.
Style of your home: You will want to consider how the outdoor living space will complement the existing style of your home.
Personal touches: Don’t forget to add some personal touches to your outdoor living space. Add some comfortable furniture, vibrant flowers, and anything else that will make the space feel like your own.
How To Build An Outdoor Living Space
Besides the question, “what is an outdoor living space?” people also want to know how to build an outdoor living space. The exact way to build your outdoor living space will depend largely on what type of outdoor living space you are constructing, as well as the unique features of your property and design.
That being said, here are the 5 general steps you should take no matter what type of outdoor living space you are building:
1. Build Main Structure From Wood Or Stone
The first step is to build the main structure of your outdoor living space from wood (or composite material) and stone. For example, the main structure could be an outdoor patio made from stone.
2. Build The Secondary Structure From The Other Material
The next step is to build your secondary structure from another material. For example, if you built a stone patio, you might want to add a wooden roof for shade.
3. Install The Focal Point
Next, you’ll want to install the focal point. This can be anything that functions as the centerpiece of your space. The focal point could be a water feature, a fire pit, or even a piece of art!
4. Fill Out Space With Landscaping
Plants, flowers, and other natural elements can add color and life to an otherwise bland space. After all, what’s the point of having an outdoor living space if you don’t include elements of the outdoors?
5. Add Upgrades
Finally, you’ll want to install any additional upgrades. This can include anything from outdoor string lights over an outdoor dining area to a beautiful retaining wall covered with plants for an outdoor living room.
Benefits of an Outdoor Living Space
Not surprisingly, there are many benefits to having an outdoor living space. Here are just a few:
- Additional usable space for entertaining guests or relaxing in comfort
- Add value to your home by increasing its curb appeal
- Extend your home’s livable square footage
- Create a beautiful spot to enjoy nature without having to sacrifice comfort
Examples Of Outdoor Living Spaces
Here are some examples of beautiful outdoor living spaces that will inspire you to start planning your own.
Grand Design Landscape Can Build Your Dream Outdoor Living Space
We hope this blog has answered the question of “what is an outdoor living space?” to your satisfaction. As you can see, there are many reasons why having an outdoor space is beneficial.
If you’re considering adding an outdoor living space to your home, our team of experts can help. We will work with you to create an outdoor living space that fits your needs and budget. Fill out our contact form today to get started!