Trends We Saw In Outdoor Spaces In 2022

Exterior view of a set of chairs looking out over a back terrace.
Outdoor spaces are here to stay. Here are some stylish ways to integrate an outdoor space into your home. (Elegran)

While the pandemic made outdoor space important, it has become essential in the post-pandemic world. It’s not just another amenity―it’s something every home truly needs whether it is a large country estate, suburban house or city condominium. Any type of outdoor space―even a balcony or patio―can add resale value to a home. Here are six outdoor space trends we saw in luxury homes on the market in 2022. 

Fireplaces

Outdoor fireplaces have been a major trend since the pandemic. When everyone began to socialize outside, fireplaces started to fly off the shelves. Not only are they aesthetically pleasing, but they give you the freedom to enjoy company outdoors all year round, particularly in colder climates or on chillier nights in warmer climates. 

Exterior view of a fireplace with sunset in background and a tv stand.

This outdoor fireplace is placed strategically, framed by the drama of the Texas sunset and set in a stunning white brick mantel. (Moreland Properties)

The outdoor fireplace at 202 Colca CV in Lakeway, Texas, is exquisite. Not only is it surrounded by a modern brick mantel, but it also has an outdoor television installed on top of it. It’s the ideal way to create a cozy ambiance for outdoor movie nights or impromptu Netflix binges. Located in a prime gated community, this home also has a variety of other incredible features, including stunning views of the mountains and gorgeous interior renovations. 

Fire Pits

While outdoor fireplaces are ideal, they aren’t possible to install in all homes. So, a firepit can be a smart alternative. While they are an equally coveted amenity, they can also be far less costly to install and can be purchased at most major home retailers. From large backyards to small patios and city terraces, firepits are a post-pandemic trend that’s more likely to become a mainstay than a fading fad.

exterior view of the patio with a fire pit and chairs.

Firepits are easy to install and take center stage. This fireplace offers another seating area in this back terrace. (Long & Foster Real Estate)

The firepit in this five-bedroom/four-bathroom elegant home in a parklike setting located in Bethesda, Maryland, is the ideal place for gathering with friends to enjoy conversation and probably some s’mores. This home is appealing for so many reasons, including an indoor fireplace and gourmet kitchen. 

Read More: Seven Ways To Elevate Modern Homes

Hot Tubs

Life can be difficult so having a special place to relax like a hot tub can be incredibly useful. Whether you want to soothe your muscles after a challenging workout or a warm place to sip a glass of wine after a demanding day at the office, hot tubs are the perfect place to relax. 

Exterior view of a home with a hot tub and spiral staircase.

A hot tub deck is a creative way to make an intentional relaxation space. This terrace has a spiral staircase that goes up to the roof as well.  (Hilton & Hyland)

This wonderful home located at 3118 18th Street in Santa Monica, California, has a cool and modern hot tub deck. The interior is sleekly designed with a modern wine wall, fireplace and statement staircase among other features.

Outdoor Kitchens

exterior view of the outdoor kitchen with stainless steel appliances

Nestled in the trees, this outdoor kitchen is equipped with everything necessary to entertain. (Hilton & Hyland)

But the hot tub is not the only reason to consider 3118 18th Street. The home also has an outdoor gourmet kitchen with a grill and two stainless-steel refrigerators—one for wine as well as one to store other beverages and food. Outdoor kitchens were popular before the pandemic and they’re very much here to stay. With many people still cautious of COVID-19, it makes outdoor gatherings far easier. This amenity can also add value to a home and attract potential buyers in the long run. 

Read More: Eight Ways You Never Thought To Use Tile

Hanging Chairs on Porches

Hanging chairs suspended on porches started to fall into favor a few years before the pandemic and this trend is hotter than ever at the moment. These stylish chairs provide the perfect place to sit and read a book, scroll on the phone or have a nice conversation with family or guests.

Exterior view of a home's porch with a rattan hanging chair.

This rattan swinging chair is a chic and whimsical way to enjoy this home’s large front porch. (Long & Foster Real Estate)

This elegant turn-of-the-century home in Washington, D.C., has a lovely rattan chair installed on the front porch. Chicly designed, this home that was built in 1909 has original wood wainscotting as well as five bedrooms and five bathrooms.

Dining Spaces 

exterior view of an outdoor dining area

Entertaining outdoors at this wooden dining table offers a change of pace from the bustle of New York City living. (Elegran)

Outdoor dining spaces boomed during the pandemic and are only here to stay. There are so many different ways you can design an outdoor dining area. Best of all, you only need a small space to create a stylish and functional outdoor dining area. We see this at 113 Jefferson Avenue in Brooklyn. It’s a welcome respite from the busy city. In addition to this outdoor space, this home has contemporary herringbone flooring, exposed brick and other original detailing. 

MORE FROM FORBES GLOBAL PROPERTIES

Author

I am a writer, design expert, host of the podcast Bougie Adjacent, and comedic performer. I am absolutely fascinated by all aspects of décor and design. It once took me six months to choose a soap dispenser and I can’t even remember what it looked like. I like bright prints, southern exposure and any location you can call a “village or town.” There are currently over 100 episodes of House Hunters on my DVR.

Properties You Might Also Like

Related