Creating an indoor-outdoor relationship is nothing new. But as the home-building industry continues to decrease the size of homes and searches for ways to add value to designs, extending living space outdoors becomes a critical design component.
The design of outdoor space is every bit as important as a home’s interior layout. Just as walls, ceilings, and flooring define indoor spaces, outdoor living areas also require similar definitions. The use of various surface textures, such as decking, pavers, crushed granite, and concrete, can begin to define outdoor functions. Structures, whether covered or open, create zones for recreation, cooking, and visiting.
As homebuyers are faced with increasing transportation costs, functional and appealing outdoor entertaining areas are moving higher up the request list. The ability for buyers to spend weekends and vacations in their own “mini-resort” adds value to new homes and offers endless possibilities for upgrading existing homes.
The House Review design team has responded this month with outdoor living concepts that include pool houses, outdoor kitchens, and even small vegetable gardens. Each of these designs offers intriguing ways to extend living space into the outdoors.
For previous House Review reports, visit www.HousingZone.com/HouseReview.
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