There’s more living space when you consider the outdoors. 8 <strong>Remodel</strong> <strong>Tampa</strong> <strong>Bay</strong> <strong>Spring</strong> | <strong>Summer</strong> <strong>2015</strong>
HOMEOWNERS CONTINUE TO INVEST IN EXTENDING THE HOME OUTSIDE The most used rooms in the house have moved outdoors! Americans love to cook, socialize and eat outdoors, so it was only a matter of time before kitchens and living rooms moved outside. The backyard is the site of a trend across the country that is growing at a dramatic rate. More and more homeowners are creating outdoor living spaces. In the May <strong>2015</strong> issue of Money, the magazine printed results from a reader poll in which 38 percent of homeowners replied Outdoor Space when asked “What home improvement would you most like to make this year?” This was well ahead of Kitchens at 28 percent, Bathrooms at 25 percent and Add a Room at 10 percent. Residents in regions of the United States that enjoy milder weather were the first to embrace the outdoor living concept. Another driver is that, instead of traveling to resorts, homeowners are creating a more lasting resort atmosphere in their own backyards — everything from cooking, lounging and playing areas. People are now actively expanding their homes outdoors for more enjoyment and comfort. It’s clear people have embraced the concept of making their home a haven. As a result, manufacturers have developed plenty of choices. Outdoor Kitchen Area While the general focus of an outdoor room includes cooking and eating areas pulled together by a fireplace and a common floor, some outdoor rooms are similar to indoor eat-in kitchens. Today, outdoor kitchens can encompass expansive counter space and full food preparation areas with amenities such as sinks and plumbing. No longer do you find a lonely barbecue grill outside. Many homeowners take the concept further by installing built-in natural gas grills with multiple burners and full indoor kitchen-grade cooktops – even brick pizza ovens. It’s also possible to add a warming oven, dishwasher, refrigerator and specialty beverage cooler to round out the space. Some homeowners choose to incorporate a bar area with stools or a long dining table with oversized and comfortable chairs. Adding a fountainh, trellis and lighting to the area can complete the whole new ambiance, providing the perfect spot for outdoor entertaining. The Hearth, Patio and Barbecue Association (HPBA) reports that outdoor room specific trends include climate control, ultimate convenience and clean design lines. To provide more relaxation time, people are seeking products that combine utility and convenience. HPBA describes smartphone linked grills and cool misting fans that can also dispense mosquito repellent and aromatherapy. Smokeless natural gas fire pits and heated tables are available to provide yearround outdoor dining. Living Room or Lounge Area Manufacturers are creating products that help provide year-round comfort. The latest outdoor furniture goes for aesthetics, offering alluring designs and textures in durable, weather-resistant and stainresistant fabrics. Heated floors and patio heaters warm chilly weather and cooling misters ease summer heat. Fireplaces or fire pits add ambiance in any season. People are definitely drawn to a fire pit or fireplace. It’s an amenity for outdoor living rooms that all ages can enjoy. Kids love it; adults love it. The atmosphere created with a fire feature can be comforting and romantic, or fun-filled with marshmallow roasting and storytelling. Linear natural gas fireplaces are currently trending. Thinner overall, new natural gas fireplaces feature high-heat tolerant glass and no-trim options. They come in sophisticated, contemporary styles made to withstand the elements. Natural gas fireplaces and fire pits are easy to light, simple to enjoy and easy to maintain. Resort-style Pool and Spa Area While Florida boasts some of the mildest weather in the country, homeowners often look for pool and spa heating to lengthen the swimming season. With more swim time, the pool and spa area gets extended use. A variety of paving and decking, lounge furniture in contemporary and weather-resistant material, shading with umbrellas, canopies, and custom-built structures and creative lighting can be incorporated into a pool and spa area design with lasting interest. An outdoor living space can be designed for every segment of the residential market, from starter homes up to executive mansions. Money invested in making hard improvements to the backyard, such as installing a permanent grill island and a natural gas fireplace or fire pit, usually add to the appraised value of the homes. The outdoor space also dramatically enhances curb appeal when it comes time to sell. Outdoor rooms are often created over a period of years to accommodate large wish lists and limited budgets. People tend to prioritize projects that will provide the most use immediately – whether that is a fireplace feature with seating or a grill and dining area. After the living areas are complete, finish with landscaping. If sitting comfortably with friends or family in the backyard with the crackle of a fire or dinner sizzling on the grill seems like pure pleasure, it’s time to start planning for that outdoor living space. Check out hpba. org for more information about planning an outside space and finding the right products and contractors. <strong>Spring</strong> | <strong>Summer</strong> <strong>2015</strong> <strong>Remodel</strong> <strong>Tampa</strong> <strong>Bay</strong> 9
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