How to Transform Your Outdoor Living Space For 2021: Vacationing in the Backyard
2020 has certainly been a doozie. But one thing’s for sure, it marked the rise of the staycation. But if you’re like many people, you may have tried to schedule a swimming pool installation last year when COVID-19 shutdowns forced everyone to spend more time at home. Sadly, you also realized a bit too late that it couldn’t happen due to backups and delays in construction and supplies.
Don’t fall for the same mistake next year. Plan now so you can enjoy your outdoor living space in 2021, providing the perfect spot for your next “trip.”
Outdoor Home Entertainment Takes Priority
From an outdoor kitchen and grill to an inground pool, a staycation will not only save you cash, it will be a sure thing – despite what’s happening in the world. No walking on eggshells wondering if your vacation will actually happen, no canceled plane tickets, no disappointment, no health risk.
If 2021 has shown us anything, it’s that the pandemic prioritized relaxing, pleasant outdoor living spaces where the family can gather to cook, relax, socialize, learn, work, play and exercise. Year-over-year Google searches for outdoor kitchens doubled in May of 2020, says Hearth and Home. In addition, studies of online shopping trends over the last year have shown that spending on “backyard betterment” came in third, behind “groceries and home basics” and “survival shopping.”
This is why you should be smart and begin planning your backyard oasis now so once spring and summer of 2021 arrive, you can hit the ground running.
Populating Your Outdoor Space
There are no limits when it comes to planning your outdoor kitchen. Outdoor living spaces feature anything from outdoor fire pits and wood pizza ovens to comfy furniture and spas, all of which have risen greatly in popularity in just one year. You may consider adding:
- Wet bar islands
- Outdoor fire pits
- Gazebos, pavilions and furniture for outdoor seating
- Cooking islands
- Docking stations for electronics
- Pergolas
- Water features, i.e., fountains
- Saunas, spas, hot tubs, and surrounds
- Cabanas and other outdoor room designs
Here’s a look at what you can add to boost your backyard enjoyment.
1. Install a Pool
Think about installing an inground or above ground pool custom-designed to uniquely enhance your backyard. The time to do this is right now! There are many other elements to consider as well, such as these fully-customizable features:
- Pool bars
- Waterfalls
- Underwater LED lights
- Stairs and diving boards
- Fountains
While you’re at it, add a swim spa or hot tub to the mix.
Swim spas can keep those joints limbered up while getting exercise, great for older adults, athletes and anyone else who needs relief from aches and pains, while hot tubs are ideal ways to relax after a long day or to entertain friends.
2. Organize into Zones
A fully-equipped outdoor kitchen must offer some kind of functionality and therefore flow well, two great reasons to zone your outdoor living space into logical uses. Your cook space and grill can be in one zone, while another could be a prep area, which contains all your condiments, plates and utensils. Still another zone can incorporate seating.
3. Trick Out Your Grilling Station
Yes, the grill usually takes center stage in an outdoor kitchen, there are many other things you can add to this space. Like what, you ask? A condiment station is an excellent addition where people can add their own toppings to their burgers and other summertime delights. You may also want to add extra prep space so you can have more room to chop, season, and plate your meals.
Planning out next year’s vacation with the family doesn’t have to be stressful or cost an arm and a leg. Staycations are gaining a reputation as safe, affordable and convenient ways to “get away” with family and friends without being at the mercy of resorts closing down and airlines canceling tickets.
Pro-Tip: For information or help in promoting your pool and spa business through 2021, call us at 732-526-7590 or complete this easy contact form.
