Extend Your Indoor Living Area To The Outdoors

Your outdoor living space should be an extension of your home, giving you the perfect place to entertain, barbeque, garden, exercise, or simply relax during the warmer months of the year. Whether your backyard is large or small, you can turn it into a comfortable, beautiful, and functional private oasis that is an escape from daily life. From kitchens, to decks, to pergolas, and more, these 10 ideas will give you inspiration as you design an outdoor living space that is just right for you.

1. Outdoor Kitchen

Many homeowners choose to add a kitchen to their plans when designing a new outdoor living area. If this is something that you are considering, discuss it with your homebuilder during the initial planning phase of your project because arrangements for water lines, natural gas lines, and electricity need to be made. As you design your new space remember to allow for easy access between your indoor and outdoor kitchens. Don't forget to protect the chef (you!) and your guests from the elements with a canopy or other type of over-head covering, if your budget allows, and select appliances and countertops that are made to withstand all types of weather.

2. Outdoor Fireplace

A wood-burning or natural gas outdoor fireplace can be a visually impactful focal point in your backyard. Add some comfortable furniture and it's the perfect place for family and friends to gather on a chilly night. Materials such as stone, concrete, or brick can be used to build fireplaces of any style -- from rustic to ultra-modern.

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3. Deck

A deck is elevated by supports and is usually constructed off the main floor of the rear of a home, allowing it to act as a seamless extension of the indoor entertaining space. Decks can be built in almost any style, shape, or size. Whether you have a traditional rectangle or a contemporary free-form structure, design your deck to be large enough to hold a dining table and a seating area, and still have plenty of room for guests to move around comfortably. Decks can be made from pressure-treated lumber, redwood, cedar, or composite materials. Talk to your homebuilder about the maintenance required for each type of material before you choose one so that you understand how to properly care for your deck in the years to come.

4. Patio

Patios are built to be flush with the ground and typically require less maintenance than decks. They can be designed in any shape or size and can be made from a variety of materials. Take aesthetics and maintenance into account as you select a material for your new patio. For instance, concrete is a highly durable material that can be colored, stained, or texturized for a customized look. For a more natural feel, choose flagstone, bluestone, slate, or limestone. Brick works well with a colonial-style home as it has a traditional, classic appearance. If you want a low-maintenance, man-made material that will complement almost any architectural style, pavers are a good option because they come in many shapes, colors, and patterns.

5. Indoor/Outdoor Room

Today's homes often feature transitional spaces, such as screened or glassed-in porches that lead to a patio, an outdoor kitchen, or a swimming pool. These indoor/outdoor rooms can have ceiling fans that provide a cool breeze in the summertime and space heaters for some warmth in the cooler months of the year. Consider adding extra wiring during construction for a television and speakers so your family can lounge and entertain in your new three-season, flexible-use space. 

6. Gazebo Or Pergola

Add some charm to your backyard with a gazebo or a pergola. Both types of structures offer delineated seating areas and some shelter, but there are differences between the two. A gazebo is open on the sides and is covered by a roof that provides full coverage from the sun. A pergola consists of columns that support a grid of open beams overhead, allowing sunlight to filter through the space. Either a gazebo or a pergola can be the ideal place to entertain or relax in your new outdoor living area.

7. Swimming Pool

Swimming pools are the ultimate in luxury in any backyard. In-ground pools can be designed to be almost any shape or size to fit the space you have available. And, depending upon your budget, you can choose from a variety of finishes for your pool and materials for the surrounding hardscaping for a truly custom look. Yes, installing a pool is an expensive proposition, but it can increase the value of your home and your family will enjoy it for years to come.

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8. Sport Court

Sport courts are a great way to get your kids, their friends, and you to exercise and will keep everyone occupied in a healthy way. From basketball to skateboarding to pickleball, you can indulge your kids or yourself in a favorite pastime right in your own backyard.

9. Folding Or Retractable Glass Doors

There are many different styles of glass doors that provide access to the backyard, from inexpensive sliders to those that pivot, fold, or lift-up. Work with your homebuilder or remodeling expert to select doors that will complement the architectural style of your home and work with your budget.

There are two types of glass doors that offer completely unobstructed views and easy access to the outdoors: telescoping doors which consist of three or more panels that fold like an accordion, and lift-up doors that roll out of sight like garage doors. These glass doors allow you to seamlessly integrate your indoor living area with your outdoor living space, but they can be very expensive. French doors are a more classic option and offer an elegant look; the double doors swing open and have either a full-length single pane of glass or panes that are divided by mullions. There are also variations on the traditional sliding door that can fit any type of decor, and they are available in many sizes and price points. Whatever you choose, glass doors can provide a feeling of connectedness from an indoor space to the outdoors.

10. Outdoor Lighting

Consult with your homebuilder and landscape architect when developing a lighting plan for your new outdoor living space. Create the ambiance you desire by placing spotlights and uplights in strategic locations. Establish a safe environment for your family and guests by brightening large swaths of your yard with floodlights so that people can move about freely when it is dark. Install low voltage lights under steps, railings, and benches, and use in-ground lights to illuminate walkways and driveways. Make sure you have sufficient task lighting for prep and cooking areas if you have an outdoor kitchen. Invest in underwater lighting that not only gives your pool a soothing glow, but also allows for safer nighttime swimming.  

At Meridian Homes, we specialize in luxury remodeling and custom home building in the Washington, DC area. Our mission is to create exceptional residences that exceed expectations. Our highly personalized design process and careful management of every project have earned us a reputation over many years for outstanding client service and solid, beautiful craftsmanship. Contact us today to begin your custom home or remodeling project.