Top Outdoor Living Trends: Make Your Backyard Feel Like a Vacation
Today’s homeowners want more than just a yard—they want an outdoor living space that feels like a retreat from daily life. Well-designed patios, decks, and gardens add usable square footage to your home, boost your property’s value, and make entertaining a breeze.
At EHR Contracting, we love transforming backyards into extensions of your living space. If you’re ready to step outside and stay there, here are the top outdoor living trends to inspire your next project.
1. Outdoor Kitchens for Year-Round Entertaining
Gone are the days of a lonely grill on the patio. Outdoor kitchens are now full culinary stations—complete with built-in grills, prep counters, sinks, refrigerators, and even pizza ovens.
A well-planned outdoor kitchen keeps the cook close to the action and makes hosting effortless. Add a pergola or roof for shelter and you’ve got a space that works in any season.
2. Covered Patios and Pergolas
Rain or intense sun shouldn’t stop you from enjoying your backyard. Covered patios, pavilions, or stylish pergolas create shaded areas where you can relax or dine comfortably.
Homeowners are adding ceiling fans, heaters, or retractable screens to extend the season and keep bugs out. With the right design, your outdoor space can feel cozy well into fall.
3. Fire Pits and Outdoor Fireplaces
There’s nothing like gathering around a warm fire on a cool evening. Fire pits—both built-in and portable—remain a top trend for bringing friends and family together.
Want something more dramatic? Consider an outdoor fireplace. It makes a stunning focal point, provides warmth, and extends the usability of your backyard late into the night.
4. Multi-Zone Decks and Patios
Why have one patio when you can create distinct “zones”? Homeowners love designing decks and patios with different areas for dining, lounging, and even napping.
A multi-level deck or thoughtfully arranged furniture creates natural separation for cooking, eating, and relaxing—just like rooms inside your home.
5. Ambient Lighting for Outdoor Ambiance
Good lighting turns an ordinary backyard into an inviting oasis after dark. Popular trends include:
String lights or café lights
Solar path lighting
Recessed deck lighting
Uplighting for trees or landscaping
Smart, energy-efficient lighting extends your enjoyment and adds safety and style.
6. Outdoor Living Rooms
Take your interior comforts outdoors. More homeowners are creating full “living rooms” with weatherproof furniture, rugs, side tables, and even outdoor TVs or sound systems.
With durable materials and smart design, you can relax on a plush sectional under the stars and feel right at home.
7. Backyard Features That Wow
Homeowners are investing in backyard extras that feel like resort amenities:
Water features like fountains or small ponds
Outdoor bars or beverage stations
Putting greens or sport courts
Cozy reading nooks surrounded by gardens
These custom touches make your backyard feel unique and tailored to how you love to relax or entertain.
How EHR Contracting Brings Your Outdoor Vision to Life
Upgrading your outdoor space is more than just adding a deck—it’s about creating a true extension of your home that matches your lifestyle and tastes.
At EHR Contracting, we design and build:
Custom decks and patios
Pergolas and covered structures
Outdoor kitchens and built-in grills
Fire pits, fireplaces, and seating areas
Lighting and landscaping that complete the look
We handle every detail from design to final inspection so you can enjoy a backyard that feels like a vacation spot—without ever leaving home.
Your yard has the potential to become your favorite “room.” With the right upgrades, you’ll love spending time outside, hosting guests, or simply unwinding after a long day.
Ready to transform your backyard? Contact EHR Contracting today and let’s design an outdoor living space you’ll love all season long.
