In an online interior design update from ASID, I saw the news that “interest in home improvements such as finished basements and attics and outdoor living features remain popular.  As the housing boom has passed, there seems to be a renewed interest in investing in properties to make homes more livable, as opposed to real estate that can be resold quickly for a profit.” In my Seattle practice I know this to be true.

Topping the list of outdoor living and landscaping trends are low-maintenance landscaping (67 percent), outdoor living space (60 percent), and blended indoor/outdoor living (51 percent).

Reasons an outdoor living space is a popular addition:

• A covered patio allows people to enjoy relaxing or entertaining outdoors and while  protected from the weather, whether that is rain, or sun!
• A covered patio in Seattle means the backyard barbecue won’t end because of rain.
• A covered patio creates an outdoor “room” and adds to the space in your home. With a cover, a patio can become an extension of a house, a garden, or a poolside area. Plus it adds resale value for the homeowner.
• Covered patios add an element of design to your home and the space can be decorated to coordinate with your home interior using  plants, patio furniture, rugs.
• A covered patio is a perfect place and excuse for a party. Expect to socialize and entertain often once you complete an covered outdoor patio.