Outdoor Living Trends :: Orlando, Florida
June 2, 2016
It’s summertime! School is over, the days are getting longer and we tend to spend more time outdoors. Create an inviting outdoor space at your home – for those late summer nights, the block parties and the kids’ parties – that the whole family will enjoy. Here are a few tips and trends to incorporate into your perfect backyard paradise.
1. Artificial Grass
Homeowners want a gorgeous, low maintenance landscape, according to a recent Houzz Landscaping & Garden Trends survey. Respondents indicated a desire for more low maintenance landscapes that are ideal for relaxed outdoor living. Homeowners do not want to spend countless hours maintaining their lawn; they would rather spend that time enjoying the outdoors.
Artificial grass is an up-and-coming trend in landscaping and back yards; it is very low maintenance and is the ultimate ‘green’ product. It is incredibly durable, standing up well to heavy foot traffic, dogs and kids. Artificial grass can be installed in a large area, as in an entire back yard, or it can easily be incorporated into landscape projects, replacing small existing grass areas to create lush, gorgeous green areas perfect for seating, conversation and outdoor activities. Artificial grass putting greens make for great family (or adult-gathering) fun outdoors. Imagine how great your short-game would be if you could practice daily!
2. Outdoor Living Spaces
As we spend more time entertaining at home, our outdoor spaces are becoming extensions of our indoor living spaces. Outdoor living spaces now employ cutting-edge technology, such as wireless internet for surfing, watching TV, movies or listening to your favorite tunes, all accessible and controlled by your smart phone.
Outdoor seating areas create a relaxed outside environment that is both comfortable and useful. Outdoor furniture is more durable and more refined. New outdoor fabrics are made from long-lasting fabrics that are waterproof and fade-resistant. These fabrics allow homeowners to create permanent living spaces outdoors with fabrics and furniture that are weather resistant, yet comfortable. And in temperate climates, outdoor living spaces can be used all year long.
3. Drought Tolerant Plants
The Houzz survey indicates that plants that are easy to maintain and are attractive will be a very important part of landscaping design for 2016. Homeowners want building, hardscape, and planting materials that are both low maintenance and attractive.

Drought tolerant plants have become popular in landscape design. Plants are chosen not only for their beauty but for their tolerance of hot, wet summers (in Florida). Using drought-tolerant plants allow homeowners to add beauty to their landscape and conserve water at the same time. Many drought-tolerant plants offer interesting foliage and prevent erosion.
4. Canopies and Gazebos
Pop-up Canopies or Gazebos can be utilized to create seating areas with ambiance in the otherwise blank space of your backyard. Rather than build a structure in your yard, you can now purchase an inexpensive alternative. Many of these pop-up canopies include special features, like lattice work, drapes, mosquito netting or chandeliers. Adding special touches, like a string of outdoor lights can make these canopies the most popular spot for family gatherings.

5. Outdoor Water Fountains
Adding an outdoor water feature creates a relaxing mood. In fact, water fountains can provide stress relief as well. Incorporating a fountain into an outdoor living area is easy to do with the many options now available at home improvement stores. There are numerous self-contained options, that only need an outlet to provide the soothing sounds of running water….and there are some great, affordable options!
6. Fire Pits
Fire pits create a centerpiece for outdoor living areas. They are a great way to create visual interest in a backyard hardscape and they can increase your home’s value. Plus, they become an instant hit with the family. Portable options are affordable and can include a number of special features, like screen toppers, drink rails and a faux stone appearance.
This summer, don’t spend your leisure time working on your yard. Make time to enjoy the outdoors with your friends and family in an outdoor space you create in your own backyard. However you would like to create a special summer living area in your yard, there are numerous options to create a space that your family and friends will enjoy for years to come.