As outdoor living continues to be in demand for new and existing homes, one growing trend is creating outdoor spaces that reflect the indoor environment—in style and in purpose and in style.

Here’s a look at some of the ways designers and building pros can elevate outdoor living spaces to reflect the comfort and convenience of the interior.

Blur the Lines Between Indoor and Outdoor Spaces

Seamless connections from indoors to out have been a trend for some time, helping to expand the interior footprint both physically and visually while increasing connections to nature. Much of this is thanks to the decade-long rise in availability of multi-panel patio doors that slide or accordion out of the way to create expansive openings. More recently, coordinating indoor flooring with exterior decking has made such transitions even smoother.

Create Highly Functional Outdoor “Rooms”

Beyond traditional outdoor rooms such as screened-in porches and solariums, creating designated spaces through visual or physical means can make an outdoor area feel more like the interior while clearly delineating between activities.

Areas for dining, sitting, or relaxing may reveal themselves via the deck itself by using different plank colors and patterns, such as picture framing or inlays. Outdoor-friendly area rugs and décor inspire a similar purpose while also infusing a more indoorsy feel. For a more definitive separation in larger spaces, try planters or linear fireplaces, pergolas or multi-level decks in combination with patios, private garden spaces and outbuildings.

Even the household staple of curtains can come into play. Added to a pergola, they can bring privacy, define an entertainment space, and add a cozy indoor element.

Furniture, décor and planters can help visually separate different areas of an outdoor space while adding an interior vibe. Shown here: Zuri Premium Decking in Weathered Gray.

Include Ample, Stylish Seating

Outdoor furniture is having its own refresh moment, with stylish pieces replacing the flimsy chairs of old. An increasing selection of weather-resistant, higher-end outdoor furniture is allowing homeowners to enjoy their look without worrying about durability. For entertaining, comfort is key, as is providing different seating options arranged so conversation is easy.

This linear fire feature is clad in Cultured Stone’s Winterhaven Pro-Fit Alpine Ledgestone for the Regency Creekside Meadows Clubhouse in Bath, PA. Image courtesy Taylor Photo.

Create a Focal Points That Anchor Outdoor Spaces

Much like an interior great room or living room, consider anchoring the outdoor space with a beautiful focal point, such as a firepit or stone fireplace, which adds ambiance as well as an inviting and organic texture to the environment. The thoughtful, coordinated use of materials such as stone cladding, brick veneer and stacked stone will also help marry the interior and exterior areas seamlessly.

The Sherwood Wood-Burning Fireplace from Kindred Outdoors + Surrounds creates a focal point for the outdoor space while clearly defining a sitting area.

Extend Outdoor Living Into Cooler Seasons

Stuck at home during the pandemic, homeowners increasingly sought to not only expand their outdoor space, but extend its livability into colder months and darker evenings. A covered or shaded area to protect from rain and sun is critical. Outdoor heaters, a product that first gained popularity for restaurants moving seating outside, have become more readily available, sized, and styled for residential use.

Lighting is also important, and we’ve long evolved past the simple spotlight. Lighting that integrates into decking and railing provides both safety and ambiance. To elevate the mood even further or add a bistro-like feel, mix in lanterns, battery-powered candles or string lights. Smart sensors and programmers can allow users to adjust lighting schemes for different deck areas or for different activities and moods, as well as provide a security element.

Grove Collection column wraps and beadboard add warmth to this covered area.

Bring Interior Comforts Outdoors

Similarly, technology is allowing indoor comforts and conveniences to migrate outside. Integrated waterproof sound systems that don’t sacrifice quality, smart lighting and even televisions bring more opportunities to entertain and enjoy the outdoor space for longer periods.

Incorporate Health & Wellness Features for Outdoor Spaces

Elements of wellness are in demand in a variety of ways as homeowners seek to escape the stress of current events and busy schedules. How this translates depends largely on the homeowner’s interests and budget, but it’s about infusing functional elements that provide a getaway or a soothing hobby. These elements might include serene garden spaces (or garden beds or garden towers for smaller yards/decks); yoga platforms in a quieter, secluded area; small plunge pools; water and fire features; and even dedicated cooking appliances such as a pizza oven, flat-top, or smoker.

Add Pops of Color

Like the interior, infusing bold elements can differentiate an outdoor space while breaking up monochromatic color schemes. For an interior-like accent wall, you might consider manufactured stone in a contrasting color or even a colorful mural. For those not willing or able to commit to a larger statement, smaller décor components can achieve the same design impact as they do inside: Think colorful throw pillows, wall art, area rugs or planters.

A sleek black pergola and Infinite fire bowl with a Black Sand Travertine finish add a perfect splash of drama to this modern white backyard, the Shelter for the Storm project with Amy Storm and Company. Additional texture comes from the outdoor kitchen clad in Arctic Hewn Stone from Cultured Stone. Image: Stoffer Photography Interiors (@stofferphotographyinteriors)

Elevate Outdoor Kitchens

Today, having an outdoor cooking space goes way beyond a grill. A working outdoor kitchen can function much like its interior counterpart, with a small fridge, stovetop, sink and storage. Include adequate countertop space for food prep and serving. Situate the outdoor cooking area so there’s seating nearby; that way, the cook can still take part in conversation while food prep is underway—just like interior open floor plans and kitchen islands.

The Metropolitan Signature Kitchen from Kindred Outdoors + Surrounds is clad in Nantucket Stacked Stone from Eldorado Stone. Image courtesy Sweenor Builders.

Evolving Outdoor Spaces for Modern Living

Regardless of the size of the yard or the homeowner’s budget, outdoor spaces are shifting to meet growing demand for increased functionality and personalization. Just like the home’s interior, thoughtful design and product specification can elevate even the smallest space to something truly unique and personal.

Keep up with the latest outdoor living trends by subscribing to our enewsletter.