With warm weather on the horizon, you’re probably starting to think about your backyard and how you can make the most of it this summer. Whether you’re looking to spruce up the area by the pool, thinking of incorporating an outdoor kitchen, or making your garden more sustainable, we’ve got 6 of the latest outdoor design trends for you to consider while you’re planning your outdoor oasis.

1. Pool Furniture

With the rise in swimming pool tanning ledges, or shallow areas of the pool, came the introduction of pool furniture designed for in water use. Pool furniture gives you a place to relax half submerged in the water. For additional leisure, you can add tables to set your drinks on. The furniture will withstand the pool environment and not damage the surface of the pool. This summer we see pool owners loving this trend and beating the heat in water, in style.

2. Extension of Outdoor Living Spaces

Over the years outdoor living spaces have become more expansive and are going beyond just a place to sit outside. We’ve seen the rise of outdoor kitchens, televisions being placed on patios, and fire or water features incorporated into the sitting areas. This year, we can expect to see outdoor living spaces expand and include a combination of the porch, deck, or patio.

3. Blended Gardens

As we’ve become increasingly involved with our decisions to select organic fruits and vegetables, it’s not surprising that the trend of blended gardens is rising. This summer we can expect to see more blended gardens that consist of a mix of vegetables, fruit, and herbs in addition to flowers and plants. While a blended garden is intended to incorporate edible and ornamental plants within the same space, there is no strict rule on the ratio of edible to ornamental plants. So you can have fun experimenting with your garden until you find the balance that’s best for you.

4. Outdoor Kitchens

While outdoor kitchens aren’t a new trend, they continue to be a popular choice for those wanting to spend more of their time outdoors. One of the unique aspects of an outdoor kitchen is that it is unique to each individual depending on their comfortableness with cooking outside. For example, some consider a grill and tap as a complete kitchen, while others have incorporated bar fridges, stove tops, and other appliances into their space.

5. Xeriscaping

Xeriscaping is landscaping that focuses on plants native to the climate and are able to thrive with little to no water. While xeriscaping is most popular in warmer climates such as California, we can expect to see this trend extending to other areas as well.

6. Living Walls

While we traditionally think of living walls being in office buildings and adorning skyscrapers, they have recently been sought after for backyards. This is because a living wall can provide privacy, offer natural shade, and keep the area slightly cooler.

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