Outdoor living spaces provide a great way for people to spend more time outside. The chance to do just that is one of the factors driving the boom in outdoor living, which a recent survey from COGNITION Smart Data found is the most desired feature for nearly 23 percent of home buyers. Indeed, outdoor living spaces outranked smart home technology, modern finishes, and even climate-resilient designs in terms of desirability among home buyers surveyed in 2026.
The outdoor living boom is a testament to the allure of nature, and homeowners can incorporate the beauty of the great outdoors when designing outdoor living spaces.
• Consider the sightlines when laying out new spaces. When determining where to position an outdoor kitchen, an outdoor living room, and additional features of an exterior living space, consider existing landscape features. A vibrant and colorful garden that’s visible to residents and guests when they’re relaxing in the space can remind all of the beauty of nature. Home cooks routinely tasked with manning the grill would undoubtedly appreciate looking out onto a lush, green lawn while flipping burgers, so position the grill to facilitate such a view. When setting up an outdoor living room where you intend to gather for outdoor movie nights and game watches, plant some colorful accent trees or plants around the perimeter of the space so viewers are reminded of the beautiful setting at all times.
• Utilize nature to create privacy. Fencing is many homeowners’ first thought when seeking to create privacy in an outdoor living space. While fencing is undeniably effective as a privacy screen, it may not accommodate homeowners who desire an outdoor living space that reminds residents and guests of the beauty of nature. Consider privacy trees when designing an outdoor living space. The right choice of tree depends on local climate and additional variables unique to a property, so work with a landscaping professional to identify the best options for your space. Trees can even be planted in front of existing or newly installed fencing to create a more natural-looking perimeter.
• Prioritize yard space. It’s tempting to go big on hardscaping when designing an outdoor living space. However, the cost of hardscaping is among the most expensive components of a deck or patio renovation project. Eliminating yard space also can make it hard to establish a nature-first vibe. When planning the space, resist any temptation to expand the deck or patio space at the expense of natural components like grass, plants, gardens, and trees.
Some grass may need to be sacrificed, but be sure there’s a balance throughout the space. Incorporating nature into an outdoor living space can help establish such areas as sanctuaries where residents and guests can relax in the great outdoors.
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