The chill of winter is still in the air, but spring is just around the corner, and that means it is time for family get-togethers, neighborhood barbecues, and quiet nights spent reading a book on the back porch. In fact, now is the perfect time to start thinking about an outdoor living space that will make all your outdoor activities more comfortable and convenient this year.
What Type of Space is Right for You?
Before you start planning your outdoor living space, you will need to decide which type of outdoor space will best serve your family. One of the most popular options is an outdoor kitchen and seating area, which may consist of a grill and oven, counterspace, and a refrigerator as well as comfortable seating for as many people as you would like. On the other hand, some families prefer a more tropical vibe around their in-ground pool, and still, others want to create cozy reading nooks next to roaring outdoor fireplaces where they can enjoy a cup of hot chocolate and a delightful read all year long.
Benefits of an Outdoor Living Space
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that the average American spends as much of 90% of their time indoors, which can be detrimental to overall health. Spending time outdoors is the best way to naturally increase your vitamin D levels, reduce inflammation, and even improve your overall mood.
It Encourages Social Gatherings
Having a get-together is exciting but piling a group of people inside your home can feel claustrophobic. With an outdoor living space, you can easily cook and serve a complete meal while enjoying the company of your friends, family, and neighbors. The ability to enjoy the open space encourages more social interaction, which is good for mental health – especially in our post-pandemic world.
It Makes Cleanup Easier
Everyone loves a good pool party or barbeque (or even both!), but no one loves cleaning up in their wake. When you host these events in your new outdoor living space, cleanup becomes much easier! From grilling burgers to serving ice-cold drinks, there is no need to go in and out of the house in a wet swimsuit or shoes to keep your guests happy.
It Provides Extra Livable Space
If you have ever wanted to build a quiet breakfast or reading nook in your house, but you just can’t seem to find the right place, consider extending your nook to the outdoors. The endless options make it possible to create a cozy space next to a fire that you can enjoy in the dead of winter. Conversely, you could create a screened-in area with plenty of ventilation for escaping to the great outdoors during the summer.
It May Increase Your Home’s Value
A recent survey conducted by Rocket Homes found that the addition of an attached outdoor living space – such as a deck or porch with comfort features – can increase the value of a home by as much as $20,000. It is important to note that this is not the case in every situation, and things like location and the neighborhood can have an impact, too. However, if you are concerned about the cost of your renovation and whether you can recoup that investment when you sell, most real estate experts agree that your outdoor living space will pay for itself when your home goes up on the market.
Outdoor living spaces can serve different purposes for different families. For some, they offer an exceptional and comfortable way to enjoy their pool or hot tub; for others, it is more about hosting friends and family for a barbeque or other get-together. Either way, these spaces bring the comforts of everyday life into the beauty of nature, and there is never a downside to that.