Each year, American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) reaches out to hundreds of industry professionals to find out what’s trending in the outdoor living arena. Their feedback is based on their clients (homeowners) and what outdoor features they’re requesting the most. So, here’s an overview of what’s hot in outdoor living for 2012:
Top Outdoor Design Elements
Image from My Home Ideas
- Gardens and landscaped spaces
- Outdoor kitchens and entertaining areas
- Recreation amenities (pools, spas, tennis courts)
- Sustainable design features
- Turf lawns
- Accessible design for the disabled
Top Outdoor Living Features
Image from My Home Ideas
- Grills
- Seating/outdoor dining furniture
- Fire pits and fireplaces
- Landscape lighting
- Installed seating (benches, ledges)
- Weatherized or year-round outdoor furniture
- Counter space
- Utility storage
- Stereo systems
- Sinks
Top Outdoor Recreation Features
Image from Decor Pad
- Decorative water elements (ornamental pools, waterfalls)
- Swimming pools
- Spa features (hot tubs, Jacuzzi, Whirlpool, sauna)
- Sports (tennis or basketball court)
- Outdoor TV or theater
Top Landscape and Garden Elements
Image from My Home Ideas
- Low-maintenance landscapes
- Native plants
- Fountains and ornamental water features
- Food and vegetable gardens (orchards and vineyards)
- Water-saving xeriscaping
- Organic gardens
- Rain gardens
- Ponds and streams
- Rooftop gardens
Top Sustainable Design Features
Image from BHG
- Native or adapted drought-tolerant plants
- Drip or water-efficient irrigation
- Reduced lawn
- Permeable paving
- Recycled materials
- Rainwater/graywater harvesting
- Compost bins
- Geothermal-heated pools
- Solar-powered lights
Top Outdoor Structures
Image from Elle Decor
- Terraces and patios
- Fencing and gates
- Steps
- Ornamental water features and fountains
- Pergolas
- Arbors
- Decks
- Porches
- Outdoor kitchens and ovens
- Utility sheds
[...] last week, we featured a massive list of this year’s most popular outdoor design trends. While decks, patios and sustainable gardens are all common to have, it’s important to [...]