Online community Houzz says that demand for insight on 2024 home design predictions has been so strong that its team of outdoor design experts decided to weigh in on their expectations for the year to come. Outdoor gathering areas, indoor-outdoor living spaces and small decks and patios are all gaining attention as we head into the new year, they say.
1. Small Patios and Decks
The website says it is seeing rising interest in design solutions for small spaces, including outdoors. In fact, Houzz search trend data from earlier this year revealed significant increases in searches for terms like “small screened-in porch ideas” (up 522%), “small backyard patio” (up 30%) and “small front porch” (up 28%), compared with searches from the same time last year, and the trend is likely to continue into 2024. For homeowners with modest-size yards, adding a small patio or deck can turn an unused side yard or entry into an inviting outdoor living space. For those with more room, adding a secondary deck or patio further away from the house opens up opportunities to enjoy a more secluded retreat. Decks are especially practical, as they can be built on uneven terrain. Work with a pro who uses Houzz Pro to request a 3D Floor Plan that can showcase the size, layout and design of an outdoor space, to help you feel more confident moving forward with a project.
2. Outdoor Gathering Areas
As homeowners continue to enjoy spending time outside, professionals on Houzz are increasingly adding outdoor gathering areas that can help maximize living space and create a more dynamic home entertaining experience. Anchoring the area with a feature like a fireplace or firepit, bar or outdoor TV creates a focal point and draws guests out into the yard. Whatever the setup, designers recommend that homeowners invest in comfortable, high-quality and durable outdoor furniture, to support the increased usage.
3. Elevated Indoor-Outdoor Living Spaces
Screened-in or glassed-in porches are growing in popularity as they allow homeowners who live in regions that experience inclement weather, pollen or insects to enjoy the benefits of being outside while still having the comforts of home. As these spaces often sit directly off the main house, we’re seeing more and more design continuity between the home and porch — including a higher level of detail. Designers are elevating these indoor-outdoor spaces with stylish finishes, materials, furniture and decor, allowing for a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. Designers who use Houzz Pro can deliver a list of Selections for you to review and agree on products, materials and other finishes before moving forward with any projects.
4. Plantings Between Pavers: Whether driven by aesthetic requests or as a byproduct of maintaining on-site drainage, we’re seeing increased interest in greenery tucked between pavers. Garden paths and patios made of pavers separated by ground cover have gained popularity on Houzz because of their natural look, permeability and design versatility. This approach softens pathways, breaks up large expanses of hardscape and generally makes a walkway or patio feel more like a lush, living part of a garden.
