9 Patio Trends Changing Today’s Backyards

Date:

Share post:


But beyond including just any old fire source, Stafford of Rumor Designs says that fire pits are trending away from sleek, modern forms and leaning into structures that exude more character. “Lately, we’ve found how important it is to make the most simple things interesting,” she says. “For so long we’ve whittled elements down to such a modern, clean skeleton with no [personality], and we’re ready to add thoughtful details back into design elements.”

Take the plunge

Although there was a time when grand backyard swimming pools were all the rage, today’s homeowners are thinking smaller—much smaller—and leaning into more niche spa amenities like cold plunges. Often, this is because clients “want to build their own private sanctuary to decompress after a stressful work day or lounge on the weekend,” notes Jennifer Nawada Evans, owner and designer at Nawada Landscape Design.

“We love the growing emphasis on wellness in design and that more people are putting in saunas and pools,” says North Carolina–based interior designer Carrie Moore. “The design of these elements is getting more sophisticated. Tiny plunge pools are being put in smaller urban backyards, and while they are [compact], they still have a very calming impact on our senses.”

Taking the plunge, so to speak, also leaves more space to enjoy the rest of the garden. Plus they’re easier to install, says Nawada Evans. “They take up less space, water, and energy than a standard-size swimming pool, and they require fewer chemicals.”

Terrace Solid Wood Bar Cart

Bring on the bar carts

“Designers love a good bar cart moment, and outdoor patios are no exception,” says Denver-based designer Donna Mondi, who recently added Holly Hunt’s Omura bar cart to her own patio. “It’s been used for tequila tasting, a backup bar, and champagne service for events at our home,” she notes. “It’s stylish, strong enough to withstand the elements, and mobile so we can wheel it where we need it.

Dan Mazzarini, principal and creative director at BHDM Design, also thinks that bar carts add a lavish aesthetic to patio designs for all seasons. “Bar carts can do much more than just hold liquor,” he explains. “From accommodating dim sum to buffets, these pieces are both form and function and go from poolside chic to dinner party elegant as the sun sets.” There are plenty of bar-cart styles that combine the warmth of wood with cool aluminum to meld well with other patio furniture and decor.

North Carolina–based Carrie Moore decked out this alfresco kitchen with plenty of pendant lighting and cozy cushions.

Lissa Gotwals Photography / Courtesy of Carrie Moore Interior Design

Light it right

Coastal Living Chic Coastal Beehive Outdoor Pendant

The pros we spoke to emphasized that lighting design must be integrated into a design scheme from the inception of a project, not as an afterthought. “I’ll always encourage clients to have fun with outdoor lighting,” notes Perera, “from a beautiful chandelier…to an unexpected fixture to add a touch of whimsy to the space.”

Ramsey says, “Today our homes are layered with lighting that’s either functional, decorative, or accent—and so too are our outdoor spaces. We accent trees, light pathways, and string party lights to make our patios just as inviting. And now we have all kinds of options for rechargeable lamps to provide even more charm and warmth to our thoughtfully designed outdoor rooms.”

Mazzarini recommends lighting up patios with lanterns for a stunning visual effect. “Outdoor lighting has come a long way, and there seem to be outdoor lanterns for every look under the stars,” he says. “Hang one of these over a dining table or seating group to add both decorative appeal and a glamorous glow.”

APPLY NOW

Grow your business in 2024 with the AD PRO Directory

Arrow



Source link

Alexandra Williams
Alexandra Williams
Alexandra Williams is a writer and editor. Angeles. She writes about politics, art, and culture for LinkDaddy News.

Recent posts

Related articles

7 Best Electric Fireplaces on Amazon in 2025

Picture this: You’re sitting in front of a warm fireplace, enjoying the crackling sounds of the flames....

A 540-Square-Foot Apartment in Paris Boasts Spanish Flair

This 540-square-foot apartment is on the fifth floor of its building in the 10th arrondissement—in other words,...

The Home Alone House Sells for $5.5 Million

One of the most iconic homes in cinema is finally off the market. The Home Alone house—as...

22 Decor Gifts for Coworkers, Roommates, and Situationships 2025

Between holidays, birthdays, graduations, and other celebratory, it’s likely that you’ll find no shortage of opportunities that...

Tour The Colony Hotel’s New Cabana Bungalow, a Splash of Milanese Glamour in Palm Beach

A little over a year ago, Sarah Wetenhall, the taste-making president and CEO of The Colony Hotel...

Is Your Garbage Disposal Not Working? Here’s How to Fix the Problem Yourself

It’s also a good idea to call in a professional if you have had little experience working...

Paris Déco Off and Maison & Objet 2025: Prep, Animal Print, and Other Trending Takeaways

Patterned lanterns criss-cross overhead down the streets of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, injecting a rainbow of color into what’s been...

In Milan, Giampiero Tagliaferri Brews an Homage to Great Design

The Milanese pied-à-terre that Giampiero Tagliaferri designed for a young art collector offers a mini master class...