Looking to turn that drab backyard into the envy of the neighborhood?
Homeowners today care about more than just upgrading interiors. Modern home design includes functional outdoor living spaces that look amazing.
There are few key things to consider…
Outdoor living upgrades can increase property value, but they also provide entertaining spaces, peaceful retreats, vibrant container gardens, and ways to enjoy the fresh air right at home.
Here’s what we’ll cover:
- Why you need an outdoor living space
- Pergola Design/installation 101
- Upgrades that complement modern design
- Materials that work best with modern homes
- Outdoor design tips
Why you need an outdoor living space
Outdoor living spaces are more than just popular right now.
They’re essential components of overall home design that the majority of homeowners are installing. 98% of remodeling experts agree that updating your outdoor space can greatly impact your home’s value.
That should be convincing enough for you…
But it gets better. Recent data showed that pergolas and patios accounted for 63.6% of the revenue share among outdoor living structures in the United States back in 2024.
Not only will your outdoor area provide extra entertaining space and a tranquil oasis, but your selected upgrades can greatly increase your home’s curb appeal when they flow with modern home design.
Pergola Design/installation 101
If you’re going to install upgrades in your backyard…
You can’t go wrong with starting with a pergola. A custom pergola seamlessly blends in with its surrounding environment while serving as t he centerpiece to the entire yard.
Pergola designs have come a long way from simple wooden beams. Nowadays, many manufacturers offer aluminum frames, motorized shade roofs, and even lights that allow you to use your outdoor space day and night.
Pergolas are great because they allow you to:
- Create shaded areas without sacrificing sunlight
- Provide outdoor dining areas, lounging spaces, and even office spaces
- Section off your backyard to create outdoor “rooms”
When designing and installing your pergola, some things you’ll want to factor in are:
- Size
- Material
- Roof Type
- Location
Picking the right pergola that flows with your home will set the tone for your outdoor area. Other factors and upgrades will build off of your pergola’s design.
Upgrades that complement modern design
Speaking of other upgrades…
You won’t want your pergola to just be your backyard’s lone attraction. Here are some elements you should strongly consider blending into your design.
Outdoor Lighting
One of the best ways to make sure you can use your backyard at night is to have smart lighting installed.
Not only will light BBQ party staples like string lights look great but so will well placed LED lights and pathway lights.
Fire Features
Fire pits and outdoor fireplaces are great for creating a centralized spot for guests and family to gather. Not only will they keep you warm when the nights get cooler but they’ll also start great conversations.
Outdoor Kitchens
If you’re an avid entertainer, then you can take your guests’ experience to the next level by installing an outdoor kitchen. From built-in grills and food prep areas to refrigerators, cooking outdoors is more convenient than ever.
Outdoor Furniture
Thanks to technological advancements, outdoor furniture can now better withstand Mother Nature’s elements. You’ll be able to enjoy the nice weather without worrying about your furniture fading or your clothes getting destroyed.
These furniture sets look just as stylish as their indoor counterparts too!
Landscaping
There are several different plants you can use to flow with your modern home’s exterior.
For tricking purposes, you can install tall ornamental grasses or even large-scale climbing plants to create privacy between your home and neighbors. Native plants and shrubbery also help bring beauty to your outdoor space.
Materials that work best with modern homes
As you can probably tell by now, most of your backyard’s outdoor upgrade options can easily be tailored to fit your home’s design.
Most modern homes stick to neutral colors and have clean lines, so you’ll want your materials to do the same. For most structures and decks, here are some materials that will flow best:
Aluminum
You’ve probably noticed by now that aluminum is quickly becoming a staple for modern homes. Not only is aluminum lightweight and rust-resistant, but it can also be spray painted to match any color scheme.
Another great thing about aluminum is its slim profile that complements modern design and home styles.
Composite Decking
If you’re looking to install a deck or replace your patio, go with composite decking. Compared to regular wood decking, composite wood maintains its color and won’t splinter.
Outdoor Fabrics
Just like how outdoor furniture has evolved, so have outdoor fabrics. Focal wind and fade-resistant cushions and curtains can help you showcase your style while remaining durable.
Outdoor design tips
This is where a lot of homeowners fail.
They jump the gun and immediately start shopping for that cool pergola they saw online or that fun outdoor accessory. Then they realize their chosen product doesn’t match their home.
Instead, do yourself a favor and…
Match your home’s architecture.
For example, you wouldn’t want to see an ultra modern pergola sitting between two white pillars if you own a traditional style home. Or maybe that cool jagged deck wouldn’t match your home’s beautiful rooftop.
Flow with the design and structure of your home.
Create continuity with your indoor space.
Remember how I said that most modern homeowners choose neutral colors? Use that same color scheme for your pergola, deck, furniture, etc.
You should also try and blend the same materials you used for your home’s exterior. Wood deckings and stone patio stones are great ways to seamlessly transition from inside to out.
Make your guests see it.
Whenever someone enters your home, what’s the first thing they see? Your living room?
When guests step out onto your patio, what’s the first thing they should see? That pergola you worked so hard on!
Position your furniture and focal points where they’ll get maximum attention.
Plan out every season.
Believe it or not, you can take advantage of your outdoor space even during the fall and winter seasons. Install screen systems or patio covers to keep rain and windy weather at bay.
Not only that, but if your area experiences snow, products like fire pits and patio heaters help keep you and your guests warm during those cold months.
Leave some room.
When planning your backyard, don’t feel the need to squeeze every single backyard trend into your space. While some upgrades may seem unnecessary at first, they’ll help fill your space and make your furniture feel awkward.
Your backyard doesn’t always have to be busy to look complete. As you can tell from this photo, negative space is key.
Wrapping It Up
Like with interior home upgrades…
Installing your own outdoor oasis requires lots of planning and consideration. However, your reward will be worth it when you can entertain guests or relax in your own personal retreat.
Start with a statement piece like your pergola and work from there. Make sure to find accessories and additions that flow with the style and architecture of your home.
Quick remember:
- Use materials that match modern design
- Section off spaces
- Plan out your lighting and furniture beforehand
- Let your indoor space flow into your outdoor space.
Don’t worry if you hate being cooped up indoors like us.
There’s no time like the present to start leveraging your outdoor space. Start improving your home’s value today by taking advantage of these trendy outdoor upgrades.
