Step outside and into your very own Lehigh Valley paradise. From cozy and comfortable front porches to decked out decks, stunning side yards and fun and functional lawn space, these 4 outdoor areas extend living space, add value to the home and are worth the investment. Check out these inspiring ideas to consider when planning new home construction for an amazing summer at home.
According to the International Casual Furnishings Association’s 2021 Trend Report, outdoor living space is more valuable than ever before. Survey results indicate people are spending more time at home outside and desire fun and functional open-air space with outdoor amenities that add value to their homes. Make more of the outdoors by adding comfortable and inviting open-air spaces for relaxing, entertaining, gardening and dining alfresco.
Cozy and Comfortable Covered Front Porch
Create a cozy and comfortable space for relaxation, entertaining and keeping watch over the kids at play by considering a front porch addition during new home construction. There are several styles to consider. The Spruce offers inspiring ideas for front porch designs for every house style. From a simple covered front entry, to a farmer’s style porch running the width of the home or a sprawling wrap-around, our design team can guide you through the building process based on the style of your home and individual needs for accessibility. Accent the front porch with colorful plants and lush greenery to liven up the landscape and provide natural privacy screens. Eye-catching flower boxes and hanging baskets also elevate inviting front porch space. Consider seating arrangements with pairs of chairs, outdoor lounging furniture, a swing sofa or porch swing accented by cozy weather resistant pillows. Lighting and air circulation are also important front porch features to consider. When it comes to comfort, Houzz lists top essentials to consider for creating a warm and welcoming front porch.
Stunning Side Yard
Cleaning up the look of a common side yard can impact a property’s value and functionality. Concentrate on creating aesthetically pleasing usable space along the sides of the home to add to it’s curb appeal with dedicated space for gardening and relaxation. Trendey highlights space-efficient ideas for making the best use of side yards with stunning landscape border features including fences, gates, raised flower beds and walking paths to frame seating areas for reading and relaxation.
Decking out the Back of the Home
Stairs, sun versus shade coverage, lighting and an accessible indoor-outdoor connection are important aspects to consider when planning a deck for the back of the home. Elevate outdoor living space by integrating a roof or pergola covered extension from over the deck for hot tub soaks or entertainment amenities including a television or projector, fireplace, an outdoor kitchen with pizza oven, grilling station and wet bar accessible for dining outdoors from spring through fall. Create a private retreat for cleanups with an outdoor shower and mudroom for lawn and garden rinsing or dog washes, accented by hooks for wet bathing suits and a sitting bench with storage to keep dirty paws, shoe prints and dripping bathing suits from tracking mud and water into the home. Connect deck space to the inside with French or patio doors that open wide to allow indoor room space to flow outdoors. A master suite balcony or lookout deck also works well as a private retreat extending from bedroom space. For those who prefer an all season approach, a sunroom connected by a wrap around deck can work well for extending living space in the back of the home.
Pumping Up Outdoor Patio Space
Patio space provides a dedicated area for inviting backyard getaways. Gardens and concrete pad fire pits with built-in gathering seats, log storage space and speaker walls are common elements integrated into patio areas. Create a comforting, ambient glow with lighting installations to surround the patio, accented by stone walkways connecting to other outdoor spaces and the back of the home.
Relax, retreat and unwind in patio garden space with chaise lounge seating to soak up the sun and spend more time outdoors. Shaded patio lounging areas accented with durable, easy to clean weather-resistant textiles, outdoor pillows and stylish outdoor rugs situated below a pergola, trellis or arbor streaming with ivy walls or outdoor curtains and string lights can also provide outdoor privacy and make a garden area feel like an extension of the home. String a hammock between two posts for a relaxing reading area or afternoon nap. Low hedges can also be integrated to break up lawn zones for designated outdoor activity areas. Accent the patio with living decor and oversized rocks and stones for additional seating. Grow fresh ingredients for alfresco dining in raised garden beds and add a bistro set for private, intimate meals. Potted aromatic lavender, thyme, basil and gardenias in free standing plant containers sprawling with live flowers and plants in a thriller, filler, spiller arrangement situated near seating areas also evoke an inviting feel.
Outdoor spaces are evolving into inviting, comfortable and well-equipped extensions of the home. Better Homes & Gardens offers insight with additional ideas to transform common outdoor areas into amazing living space. Focus on function for comfort and entertaining to escape and unwind in the open-air while reconnecting with friends and family. Contact Signature Homes by J.T. Maloney today to construct the home of your dreams for all seasons, designed with amazing outdoor living space amenities everyone can enjoy.
