Creative outdoor living trends and decor to change up your backyard space
This year, homeowners and renters are putting more emphasis on reconnecting with the outdoors and embracing more playful and creative hobbies. Creating a comfortable and inviting outdoor space can also provide an additional area to work from home. There are a ton of high- and low-effort ways to turn your outdoor space into a haven and entertaining area for all seasons and occasions.
Looking for some inspiration to help plan your new outdoor living area? Here are the most popular 21 outdoor living trends to watch for and incorporate into your own space in 2024.
2024 is all about reconnecting with friends and family. To do this, incorporate elements that are great for hosting, like outdoor kitchens and activity areas for the kids. Here are some fun and active entertainment ideas for your backyard:
If you have a family with young kids, there’s nothing they’d appreciate more than their own backyard playset. This is ideal for getting them off their electronics and outside. Plus, it’s a great way for kiddos to let out some steam and practice swinging, climbing, and playing on the monkey bars. Consider even building a simple DIY treehouse.
Project difficulty: Easy
Take family dinners outside or host backyard parties with ease with an outdoor kitchen setup. Alfresco dining has never been more fun—especially while getting to enjoy a warm summer night. Be sure to include an outdoor dining table and chairs so you can have a place for everyone to sit and enjoy their food. Don’t forget to add features like outdoor electrical outlets, a refrigerator, a wood-fired pizza oven, and more.
Project difficulty: Advanced
Smart technology is beyond useful indoors, so it’s only logical to use that same convenience outdoors. Many homeowners already know the benefits of having a smart doorbell or security camera, but in 2024, outdoor smart technology options seem almost endless. And because there are so many choices available, you really can choose to “go big or go home” with how smart you make your outdoors.
Some outdoor smart technology options you can choose from include:
Smart lawnmowers
WiFi-connected birdfeeders
Smart mosquito repellents
Bluetooth string lights
Pool water monitors
Project difficulty: Intermediate
Outdoor wet bars are also trending in 2024. This setup is perfect for hosting and is an ideal way to enjoy beverages in the hot summer months or even the cold—did someone say hot toddy? You can also get the look by adding a bar cart with your favorite beverages next to your grilling area. For a wet bar, make sure you consider the costs of installing an outdoor faucet to hook up a sink.
Project difficulty: Advanced
You may be the most popular house on the block after setting up your very own outdoor hot tub. As the ultimate luxury, hot tubs are great for entertaining guests and allow you to enjoy your outdoor space during all seasons of the year.
Hot tub installation can cost around $3,400—although it’s on the more expensive end, it’s worth it. Consider adding some string lights around your hot tub so you can enjoy the feature at nighttime.
Project difficulty: Advanced
Keeping the kids busy and entertained is essential when it comes to building your outdoor space. Consider setting up a craft shed or structure where your kids can store their toys and play. To create longevity, consider making these activity areas a space that your kids can enjoy all the way into their teen years.
You can make these areas as modern or traditional as you want—you can even make them suitable for adults, making them the perfect quiet getaway for completing tasks or hobbies.
Project difficulty: Easy
Mix up a Saturday night and watch a movie outside with a projector screen or outdoor TV. Set this screen (or even a white bedsheet) upon a flat surface, such as the side of your house. Complete the area with fun, weather-resistant seating options, like bean bags, and other ambient elements such as an outdoor rug, cozy lighting, and—of course—snacks.
Project difficulty: Intermediate
Gas grills aren’t the only feature that can be great for cooking and hosting. If you want to take your outdoor kitchen setup to the next level and get more creative with how you cook, consider installing other outdoor kitchen features, such as a wood-fired pizza oven. If you’re not ready to fully commit, these ovens also have portable options, making them a flexible option for your outdoor retreat.
Project difficulty: Intermediate
A cozy gas fireplace can keep your outdoor space warm throughout multiple seasons. Consider installing a fireplace, fire pit, or other heating options in your new design. This feature will be the perfect way to incorporate warmth and light in 2024.
Project difficulty: Intermediate
In addition to creating a fun entertainment zone, you can also design a cozy office space to make working from home feel like a vacation. "This summer, we’re seeing a lot of people take advantage of their outdoor space during work hours," says Rupa Mehta, an outdoor home care expert at Angi.
Here are some tips to turn your outdoor space into a comfortable and productive oasis. For boosted internet connection, consider installing a Wi-Fi extender.
Project difficulty: Intermediate
A focus on gardening and being green will be big in 2024. Many people picked up gardening during the pandemic, so highlight your new (or longtime) hobby with some lush landscaping features for your outdoor space.
Whether you’re looking for DIY options or major updates that require a landscaper near you, check out these fun ideas you can consider for your setup:
Consider creating an edible garden for your outdoor space. This feature is great for adding flavor, nutrients, and color to not only your plate but also your garden. Plant vegetables like tomatoes and peppers or herbs such as cilantro, oregano, or lavender. If you want to start with a smaller project, stick to an herb garden first.
Project difficulty: Easy
Sustainability has become an even bigger trend this year. If you’re considering sprucing up your outdoor garden space, try to stay as sustainable as possible to positively impact the environment and your wallet. This means things like incorporating native plants to conserve water, starting a compost, using organic seeds, and exploring lawn alternatives such as moss, shrub beds, and rock gardens.
Project difficulty: Easy
Spending more time outside and hosting guests may warrant an increased need for privacy. This can be achieved in a variety of ways, including divider screens, fences, or even tall greenery.
You can also create an ethereal and cozy feel by hanging some gauzy curtains to separate the areas of your outdoor space. Having more privacy in your backyard can be great for keeping nosy neighbors out and for creating a quiet outdoor office if you choose to work outside.
If you plan to build a privacy fence or wall divider, make sure to check with your local regulations first.
Project difficulty: Intermediate
Vertical gardening that covers the walls of your outdoor space serves as unique wall art and allows you to keep that outdoorsy feel if you happen to have a small area to work with. Grow vines directly along the side of a wall, or get a ladder garden or stacked planters to achieve the look. Fill those planters with greenery, such as succulents, to reduce the amount of water you need to take care of them.
Project difficulty: Intermediate
One of the biggest design trends is the bohemian style. Boho decor helps you achieve a laid-back, but put-together, cozy vibe. “Bohemian-style decor and furniture are popping up everywhere this summer,” says Rupa. She recommends turning your space into a boho oasis by sticking to a natural color palette, rattan furniture, and plenty of rugs.
This is your chance to experiment with different textures and shapes. Here are some bohemian accessory ideas to give you some inspiration:
Furniture made from rattan is trending for 2024 and is very versatile both indoors and out. Rattan furniture is made from an eco-friendly and sustainable material and adds a cool and unique look to every space. Plus, it’s more durable and requires less energy to produce than wood material.
Incorporate pieces like rattan stools or chairs, lounging couches, tables, and more. Rattan’s unique look will surely be a conversation starter at your next gathering.
Project difficulty: Easy
To incorporate more texture into your bohemian look, you can add pieces and accessories with rope accents. Rope is typically strong and flexible, making it a durable material for furniture and outdoor accessories. It is also very weather-resistant and comes in neutral colors, which fits well with the natural bohemian look.
Add some chairs made of rope, hanging rope baskets, or even pillows and cushions with rope accents.
Project difficulty: Easy
Achieving this look is easy—start by layering several textures, colors, and patterns. This outdoor style also works great if you’re a plant lover and want to add a lot of greenery to your space. Consider adding elements like a hammock, a hanging swing chair, and fun rugs to achieve the ultimate laid-back feel.
Project difficulty: Intermediate
The minimalistic outdoor trends of years past are gone, and in their place stems a deeper use of colors and a more informal style. Here are some unique ideas to help you embrace the informal shapes and colors of the season:
Clean lines are key for creating a more modern space. Furniture with geometric shapes is trending and offers a fun and unique aesthetic. In addition to patio furniture, you can implement this into your outdoor flooring options with uniquely shaped tiles or stone pavers.
Project difficulty: Easy
Concrete furniture is trending this year and offers an industrial look. Pieces made of concrete offer many style options with unique textures and shapes. Consider concrete tables, benches, fire pits, and side tables to highlight this trend in your outdoor space.
To soften the hard lines and concrete material, incorporate a comfy throw blanket or plush pillows into your seating area.
Project difficulty: Easy
2024 is all about natural shades that create a calming and cozy vibe in an outdoor space. Think muted tones, like sage green, cashmere, cream, or light beige. These shades work great in a wide variety of designs and match well with other furniture and accessories you may want for your outdoor space.
Consider even adding a statement piece with a pop of color here and there, like a bright throw pillow or rug.
Project difficulty: Easy
Keep up with the sustainable trends by reusing old or “last-season” outdoor accessories and furniture and upcycling or giving it a new paint job. You can also opt for furniture made from recycled or raw materials, like teak wood or acacia, which is usually extracted from old houses and boats.
Project difficulty: Easy
There are endless ways to make your outdoor space feel like home. Here are some tips and additional ideas to make the most of your outdoor living space.
Think about ways you can make your outdoor space adapt with the seasons. For example, you can add to your existing features, like placing a sun umbrella over your dining area during warmer summer months. Also, take steps to protect your furniture throughout the year by using fabric protectors and purchasing furniture covers.
Plus, buying versatile and weather-resistant furniture and accessories will save you money in the long run.
To bring the indoors outside this year, create the same cozy feel as your living room with a rug. Outdoor rugs add comfort to any outdoor space—just make sure it’s weather-friendly. You can also try layering your rugs to give your space a more textured feel.
To create the best ambiance possible, you should invest time into finding stylish and durable outdoor lighting! Get creative with twinkling lights, pendants, tiki torches, flameless candles, or sconces—the options are endless and can be tweaked based on your style. If you don’t have access to an electrical outlet, you can also opt for battery-operated or solar-powered lighting options.
When crafting your ideal outdoor space, consider matching to the style you have on the inside of your home. For example, you can mirror the color palettes or use similar art motifs. This creates a nice flow between the outdoor features and the interior style and decor of your home.
When putting together your outdoor space or making modifications, be sure to consider the whole family, even your pets. This is a great way to make the outside of your home as enjoyable as it is inside, for everyone.
If you have pets, consider pet-friendly additions, like a designated digging area or a doggy playground. Kids can also keep busy with fun activities, such as a playground, water features like a splash pad, or other backyard games. Read more for some fun printable outdoor activities for kids.
With the emphasis on entertainment and bringing friends and family together in 2024, make sure you have some activities for the kids to keep them busy. Explore the activities below and easily print them out for the next outdoor hangout.
We hope this round-up of outdoor living trends and inspirational tips help you create the backyard haven of your dreams. Above all else, make sure the space works for you and your family’s needs. From outdoor eating areas to sustainable and modern design, you’ll also be sure to impress any guests that visit. For more help tackling larger projects, consider hiring a remodeling contractor or interior designer.
