Creating inviting outdoor living spaces continued to be a popular remodeling trend for Greater Indianapolis in 2013. Screened porches, fireplaces, decks and patios topped the list. However, smart homeowners also paid attention to their curb appeal, creating welcoming entries that promise a warm welcome. Here are some trends we saw throughout our year in outdoor living:
Entertainment for many or a few: Homeowners are looking to create spaces appropriate for small gathering to full-blown parties. In the Greater Indianapolis area, many a fortunate enough to have backyards large enough to accommodate both.
Project 1:
This large deck on the back of a sprawling ranch included cozy fireplace seating on the way to the pool.
The size of the deck also accommodated a large dining area, space for grilling and drink service, as well as an entry into a screen porch beyond the food prep area.
Project 2:
Living in Florida for many years gave these homeowner a taste for year-round outdoor entertaining. The stamped concrete patio area included a wet bar with refrigerator and grill, multiple seating area and outdoor dining. Two entry points from the home offer better flow for large gatherings.
Covering the patio area allows the homeowners to use the outdoor space into the cooler fall months.
Outdoor heaters were installed in the ceiling, keeping chilly weather from inhibiting the fun.
Project 3:
These homeowners were looking for an outdoor space for just the two of them. Their deck offered cozy outdoor dining overlooking their private, wooded backyard.
Curb Appeal: Saavy homeowners know that curb appeal plays a large part in valuing a home. Beyond the sales benefit, creating a welcoming entryway makes your guests feel even better about visiting. These homeowners wanted the grandeur of their indoor space to be reflected in their outdoor space as well.
Details, Details, Details: Even for the outdoors, the details of a design are what make a space truly enjoyable and unique.
Project 1:
The architectural elements added a finished look to this small deck. Big bang for the buck.
Project 2:
More and more homeowners are choosing to have their deck built with wood composite decking like Trex. Not only is the easy maintenance a draw, the availability of colors can truly enhance the look of the final project.
Project 3:
Planning for functionality is the sign of good design, whether you are building indoors or out. These homeowners wanted to enlarge their screened porch, and connect the upper level to the lower level of the home from the outside.
The multi-tiered design of this monumental staircase allowed for safe foot traffic during large gatherings, and stunning architectural interest to the back of the home.
Staggered lighting on the risers, as well as uplights on the decking provide for safety and beauty at night too.
We have spent the winter months designing a planning for many more outdoor living projects to break ground in the spring. If you are interested in creating a relaxing gathering space in your back yard, schedule a free, on-home consultation with our exterior design expert. Send us an email, or give us a call at 846-2600.
