How to Upgrade Your Outdoor Living Space: 8 Changes that Make a Huge Difference 

Outdoor living spaces can increase a home’s worth by nearly 20%. With outdoor upgrade solutions, homeowners can enhance the aesthetic appeal of their property and improve their quality of life. 

Whether you’re looking to create functional outdoor spaces or attract potential buyers, here are ideas that can make a world of difference:

1. Enhance the Entryway

Your entryway sets the tone of your entire living space and creates the first impression. Start by upgrading the front door. Depending on your interior design—vintage, modern, or cottage charm—you can paint or refurbish it. 

Replace the hardware, such as the doorknob, to create a more polished look. You can also add decorative features, such as colorful step tiles, moldings, and house number planters, to create an eye-catching entrance.  

Trim any overgrown vegetation near the front door. Lastly, powerwash the driveway to remove any accumulated dirt and debris. 

2. Invest in Landscaping and Hardscaping 

Landscaping involves adding soft or living things to your outdoor space, such as grass, plants, and flowers. On the flip side, hardscaping is the process of adding non-living structures to your outdoor design, such as a patio, deck, and outdoor kitchen. The benefits of landscaping and hardscaping include:

Functional Outdoor Space

Underutilized outdoor areas can be transformed into functional spaces. For example, the patio can be used for intimate family gatherings and birthday parties. With comfortable outdoor furniture, you can create a space to relax and rewind while soaking in the natural light. 

Environmental Benefits

Landscape features, such as green spaces, can produce oxygen and remove smoke. Plants and trees act as natural filters, improving the air quality. 

Prevent Soil Erosion

Healthy landscaping can prevent soil erosion and maintain the structural integrity of your living space. 

Lower Energy Costs

Trees and decks can prevent direct sunlight from entering your home. This will maximize shade in summer and keep your property cool, lowering your energy bills. 

3. Maintain Your Swimming Pool

Swimming pools can turn your outdoor space into an oasis and create a dedicated entertainment area. However, without proper maintenance, they can turn into a breeding ground for bacteria and lead to health issues. 

Avail maintenance services from a reputable pool company, such as WaterTex Pools, to avoid frequent repairs. Examples of maintenance services include:

• Pool filter cleaning

• Pool heater installation and maintenance

• Water testing

• Pool surface and wall cleaning

An upgraded swimming pool will not only increase your home’s resale value but also create safe swimming conditions for your loved ones. 

4. Elevate Outdoor Lighting

Outdoor lighting can improve the visibility of your home and boost safety and security. It can deter intruders and decrease the likelihood of burglaries. With outdoor lighting, you can navigate the pathways without tripping or falling.

Consider the following outdoor lighting solutions:

• Floodlights

• Spotlights

• Pathway lights 

• Bollard lights

• Wall sconces

You can illuminate bushes and trees to create a dramatic effect. Modern lighting solutions allow you to highlight the architectural features of your property. They can increase the resale value of your property.   

5. Add a Fence

In addition to outdoor lighting, fencing can also boost the security of your property. You can choose from a range of fencing materials, including:

Wood Fencing

If you’re looking for a durable and aesthetically pleasing fencing material, redwood, cedar, and pressure-treated wood are suitable options. If properly maintained, wood fencing can last for more than 20 years.

Vinyl Fencing

While wood can splinter or rot, vinyl is immune to insect damage and other environmental elements. The longevity of vinyl fencing justifies the cost. Simply hose down your vinyl fencing every few days, and it’ll appear new for years. 

Chain Link Fencing

A chain link fence is made from a steel or aluminum wire woven into a pattern to offer protection. Some contractors coat the chain link with vinyl to prevent rusting.

Composite

Composite, made from a mixture of wood fibers and recycled plastic, offers a luxury appeal. It can withstand heavy rain and high winds and requires little maintenance.  

Fencing not only secures your yard but also ensures the safety of young children and pets. 

6. Incorporate Water Features

Are you looking to give your outdoor space a luxury upgrade without breaking the bank? Consider incorporating water features in your backyard or patio. 

The sound of moving water reduces stress and promotes a sense of peace. Water features induce tranquility and can have therapeutic effects. Here are some types of water features you should consider looking into:

• Ecosystem pond

• Water garden

• Streams

• Pondless waterfalls

• Bird baths

• Tabletop water feature

• Statue fountains

7. Hang a Hammock

Are you looking for a hassle-free outdoor feature? Consider hanging a hammock in your backyard. The gentle swaying of the hammock can reduce stress and anxiety, promote better sleep, alleviate muscle pain, and eliminate pressure points. 

When hanging a hammock, take the following safety precautions:

• Choose trees with thick trunks. If you don’t have perfectly spaced trees, use ground spikes or roof racks. 

• Pick the right strap angle. A 30-degree angle between the strap and the ground is appropriate. 

• Make sure the hammock is at least 18 inches off the ground.  

8. Create a Fireplace Area

Many homeowners abandon their outdoor seating areas when the weather gets too cold. Create a fire pit or a fire area in your patio or deck to warm up the space and make it functional in the winter. Keep blankets and marshmallow roasting supplies nearby, and you have a cozy space for gatherings. 

Don’t forget to take safety precautions when installing a fire pit. This includes:

• Make sure the fire pit is at least 20 feet away from any structures, such as your house, shed, or fence. 

• Make sure there are no plants within 10 feet of your fire pit. 

• Trim any overhanging branches. 

• Strategically place the fire pit, helping the winds carry smoke away from your face. 

• Surround the fire pit with non-combustible materials, such as brick or stone. 

• Comply with rules and regulations set by local authorities and the Homeowner Association (HOA).  

Add an assortment of seating options, such as bar stools, swivel chairs, and flagstone benches, to make the fire pit the focal point of your outdoor living space.