As the days get longer and the temperatures start to rise, we can’t wait to get outdoors!

If you’re feeling the same, now is the perfect time to start planning for the upcoming summer season. There are many options available in designing your dream outdoor living space – even some you may be able to enjoy all year long!

Outdoor living space can be as simple or elaborate as your space and budget allow. Think of your outdoor space as another room in your home. You want to create a layout that encourages entertaining, dining and relaxing and that you’ll feel comfortable in. Keep reading for information on some popular options.

Decks

Think decks are boring? They don’t have to be. They’re an ideal space for entertaining and relaxing and with a few upgrades you’ll be sure to love yours. Three of our favorites include:

• A Pergola – providing visual interest and partial shade, a pergola can turn an exposed deck into an inviting outdoor living or dining room
• An Outdoor Bar – if you love to entertain, add an outdoor beverage station. A sturdy cart or shelving unit provides plenty of space to serve refreshments and store extra glassware and mixers. Add a pretty galvanized tub for chilling wine, beer and pop.
• Lighting – add safety and atmosphere with hanging lights or mini lights built into steps, posts and post caps. Want to save energy? There are many attractive solar options as well.

Covered Patios

Covered patios are great because they allow you to enjoy more of the year outside here in Michigan. The roof will help protect you from a spring shower, shield you from the summer sun’s rays or shelter you from the first snowflakes of winter. To tie your patio into your living space, select a finish that is similar to your interior flooring. Traditional concrete or stamped concrete comes in a variety of colors and designs or you can consider pavers and flagstone products.

Covered patios also allow you more design options. Maybe you’re thinking of upgrading your outdoor furniture or including a TV. A covered patio will protect these items from the elements and ensure your enjoyment of them more days of the year.

Fire Source

A fire pit or outdoor fireplace is perfect for chilly Michigan evenings and is an excellent way to extend your time outdoors earlier into spring and later into fall and early winter. Often a reminder of childhood campfires and family time, a fire pit or fireplace is sure to become a favorite backyard destination.

Outdoor Kitchen

Do you love the idea of an outdoor kitchen? I sure do, and my dream outdoor kitchen includes an authentic stone pizza oven! Kitchens are natural gathering spots and what could be better than grilling up a delicious meal outside on a warm summer evening while visiting with family or friends? Depending on your space and budget, your kitchen could be as basic as a deluxe grill and small prep station or it could include everything from a built-in cook top to a refrigerator.

Pro tip: add a container garden. Select a few decorative pots and fill them with herbs like basil, chives, cilantro, dill, oregano, parsley, rosemary and thyme. Or, you could grow vegetables like tomato, peppers, peas and lettuce. Flavor your recipes and reap the benefits of fresh, organic produce right in your own outdoor kitchen.

Conclusion

In addition to personally enjoying your outdoor living space, many outdoor living spaces improve the resale value of your home. With additions like patios and decks, fire pits and outdoor kitchens, you can improve the odds of selling your home for the most money in the quickest time possible. When you’re ready to find out what your home is worth in today’s market, contact us! We’ll provide you with an accurate market analysis and help you obtain the largest return on your investment.