Now that summer entertainment season is in full swing, our lovely Minnesota outdoor spaces are once again being utilized. Versatility and style are qualities we tend to look for when deciding to renovate or build outdoor additions to our homes. Whether you’ve been wanting to do more dining al fresco, more poolside lounging, or even trying your hand at a little gardening, now is the time to get the most out of these fabulous but fleeting summer months!
Summer Kitchens: For many, the kitchen is the heart of a home, so why not bring that love of food and family outside? Summer kitchens have been and continue to be a huge trend. Here in Minnesota, our long winters make us truly appreciate those moments when we can be outside. Whether you’re hoping for a simple grilling patio or an extravagant independent kitchen to host lavish parties, the possibilities for outdoor entertainment are endless. From satellite spaces just outside your door to fully functional second kitchens, there are countless options for every taste and budget to bring both convenience and class to your outdoor culinary experiences.
Creating Privacy: With so much of our time being spent at home recently, the desire for privacy has increased. Whether you’re looking for a no-glare outdoor workspace to plug into those daily Zoom meetings (one with a cute background never hurts,) or you just want a quiet space for your morning yoga poses, spending more time outside is great, but we don’t want to feel as though we’re on display. Overhead structures with hanging drapery panels, screens, free-standing tiled walls, potted plants, and hardscaping can all help provide space between you and the rest of the world. Your patio can truly be an extension of your home. A tranquil space to enjoy the birds and the breeze without having to catch the gaze of passers-by.
Get Tech Savvy: Outdoor technology is trending more and more with every advancement. Home movie theaters are no longer limited to the basement as open-air cinemas (complete with surround sound) are popping up in more and more suburban yards. Lighting technology like LED color-changing apps makes setting the mood easy and interactive while showcasing your favorite music playlists completes the ambiance. There might be more incentive to stay home and enjoy all the amenities of your updated backyard, than going out to a crowded restaurant or bar!
Social Front Yards: Creating a social front yard is one of the top trending home features this year. Coming off the heels of social distancing and drive-by socializing, people want to keep the connections going. The simple placement of a bistro table and chairs or a comfy bench on your front stoop are a welcoming detail. Curb appeal is important, but by turning your front yard into a functional space, you’re getting more usable square footage out of your property! Plant a community herb garden, put up a little free library, or have a front yard fire pit. All these things encourage interaction with your neighbors, so when you need to borrow that cup of sugar, you’ll know whose door you’re knocking on.
