Professional landscape publications predict 2024 will be a year where homeowners continue to enhance the livability and functionality of their outdoor spaces – with a preference for clean, contemporary design aesthetics. Heinen dives into the top 5 outdoor living trends we expect to see more of in the coming year.
Techo-Bloc Mika Paver in Onyx Black and Travertina Raw Patio Slab in Riviera.
1. Contrasting Hardscape Colors & Textures
Boldly colored hardscape designs have steadily become more popular, the most modern of looks featuring a striking contrast of black and white. In addition to pairing dark and light elements, mixing stone textures has gained in popularity as is combining manufactured materials and natural materials. Designers are achieving this aesthetic by combining smooth manufactured stone surfaces with textured stone and then accenting these with pea gravel or natural river rock.
Techo-Bloc Raffinato Smooth Retaining Wall.
2. Grill Stations and Outdoor Kitchens
The growing desire to make exterior spaces an extension of the home’s interior has made outdoor kitchens and built-in grill stations quite popular. Both beautiful and practical, cooking stations make it easier than ever to throw backyard parties for large groups of friends and family – all the while putting the chef at the center of the action (versus stuck inside the home’s kitchen). Outdoor kitchens also provide homeowners the space to experiment with cooking techniques not easily accomplished inside, like smoking meats or cooking over an open flame.
Techo-Bloc Westmount Paver in Shale Grey and Raffinato Wall & Step in Greyed Nickel.
3. Sunken Conversation Pits
Beyond traditional patios, more homeowners are including sunken conversation pits, which add interesting elevation changes and improve the overall visual effect of the outdoor space. Sleek, professionally installed retaining walls can also serve as seat-walls – transforming the perimeter of a sunken space into a comfortable seating area for more flexible entertaining.
Techo-Bloc Graphix Wall in Onyx Black and Bullnose Grande Cap in Greyed Nickel.
4. Extended Fire Features
One challenge in making outdoor spaces more home-like for entertaining is making them climate-comfortable during a greater portion of the year. Custom fire features make outdoor spaces comfortable even after a chill sets in. In addition to adding warmth, fire features are a dramatic focal point that naturally draws people together.
Beyond traditional round fire pits, a narrow, elongated configuration presents a modern and luxurious aesthetic, where guests can relax comfortably and in style. Fire features can be powered by hidden propane tanks, or even connected to a home’s natural gas line – making the fire feature easier to use and providing comfortable heat at the flip of a switch.
Techo-Bloc Mika Paver in Rock Garden Brown
5. Natural Textures in Stone
Many homeowners enjoy the look of more natural materials, such as wooden decks, in their outdoor design but also desire the durability and longevity of manufactured stone. Manufacturers are producing new options in stone that mimic the look and feel of wood – but eliminate the commitment to regular staining, sealing, maintenance, and inevitable repairs – that wood decks and walkways require.
