Outdoor living spaces are one of the trending topics in landscape design. In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, developers are constantly on the lookout for ways to increase functional exterior space. This appeals to home buyers and tenants who are acutely conscious of the need for fresh air and a change of scenery at a residence.
To help plan and develop exterior living spaces, many developers are leveraging the benefits of a modern landscape design software. This innovative product can help with all aspects of exterior development, from choosing which plants are best for a specific climate to how to properly slope a patio. Keep reading for 5 projects that expand your living space outdoors!
Outdoor Kitchen
Outdoor kitchens are increasingly attractive to residents, as they provide a change of scenery and a calming atmosphere for a meal. An outdoor kitchen can be a great addition to any property, and there are a few key features to include.
When choosing basic kitchen features, be sure that they are able to withstand the elements and resist UV damage. Stainless steel is a great material for appliances such as a grill, refrigerator, and sink. A stone pizza oven is another rugged feature that can add functionality to an outdoor kitchen.
In addition, make sure the kitchen has plenty of counter space and storage cabinets. This will make it easier for residents to prepare meals outdoors. Like the appliances, these features should also be rugged and durable, making quartz countertops and PVC cabinets top choices for outdoor kitchens.
Finally, you can consider a permeable paver system instead of concrete for the outdoor kitchen floor. This will help improve drainage, reduce the risk of staining, and limit wear and tear from frequent foot traffic.
Patio Fire Pit
Patio fire pits are a great outdoor feature for residences. They provide a cozy atmosphere for entertaining and relaxing, and they can be a great focal point for a patio. There are many different ways to incorporate a fire pit into a patio design.
You can build a fire pit into the patio itself, or you can purchase a pre-made fire pit and install it on the patio. You can also create a fire pit out of materials like brick or stone. If you are building a fire pit into the patio, you will need to make sure that it is properly ventilated and that it is far enough away from any flammable materials to ensure the safety of residents.
Backyard Putting Green
Whether it be cornhole, badminton, or putt-putt, people like to get outdoors to enjoy competitive activities. As such, a backyard putting green is a great way to provide a venue for competitive endeavors. There are a few things to keep in mind when designing a putting green.
Make sure the area is level and free of any obstructions. You will also need to choose the right type of turf and plants for the area. It is also important to consider the drainage needs of the green, as you will want to avoid any pooling of water.
Innovative landscaping BIM software is a great tool for developers to use to help find the right combination of plants, hardscape, and landscape drainage grates to use in a backyard putting area.
Rooftop Deck
Rooftop decks are a great way to expand your living space outdoors. They can provide a functional space for entertaining and relaxing, and they can effectively blend the lines between interior and exterior spaces.
When designing a rooftop deck, safety is of the utmost importance. You will need to make sure that the deck is structurally sound and able to support the weight of people and furniture. The correct roof deck tiles are also important for ensuring drainage and helping prevent wear and tear from foot traffic.
A low profile railing system is important to keep occupants from falling off the deck. Welded wire deck railing is a great option because it is very strong but does not inhibit the stunning views that make rooftop decks attractive.
Covered Outdoor Living Room
Covered outdoor living rooms are a great way to expand your living space outdoors. They provide a sheltered space where you can relax and enjoy the outdoors, and they can be a great place to entertain guests.
There are many different ways to incorporate plants into an outdoor living room. You can use potted plants to add color and interest to the space, or you can create a garden that is part of the outdoor living room. Leverage landscape design software to help find the ideal balance of potted plants, permanent plants, and hardscaping in an outdoor living area.
Pergolas are another critical component of an outdoor living room. In addition to shade and weather protection, they can also be used to define the space and create a sense of privacy. There are many different styles of pergolas to choose from, so you can find one that suits the style of your outdoor living room.
Use Lands Design Software to Expand Your Outdoor Living Space
In the post-COVID era, developers are constantly on the lookout for ways to add functional exterior space to their properties. Lands Design is a BIM landscape software that can help you design and easily obtain the 3D of your outdoor space. You can easily create stunning exterior living spaces for your development properties. Download the free trial of Lands Design and sign up for this free course to learn and obtain a new design skill!
Written by: Sam Willis, Writer at Building Product Advisor, Atlanta, Georgia
