Belgard unveils 2014 outdoor living trends

Belgard Hardscapes released results from its research on outdoor living trends for the 2014 season.

“Homeowners are using their outdoor living spaces in so many different ways—entertaining, family time, gardening, cooking,” said Fernanda Pedroso, a consumer research expert for Belgard. “Outdoor spaces in 2014 will be thoughtfully designed for how we use them but will be influenced by contemporary design with modern conveniences for the way we live today.”

According to the research, the following outdoor living trends will prevail in 2014.

Permeable pavers: Drought conditions in some parts of the country have resulted in water restrictions, which have led to greater use of paver products instead of water intensive grass lawns. Permeable pavement can feature built-in waterspouts that allow for a design element or children’s play area, and on driveways permeable pavers help with drainage and stormwater retention.

Contemporary design: Homeowners are mixing materials in their patios, walkways, driveways and garden areas, such as combining pavers with wood, natural stone or metal frames.

Outdoor cooking: It’s not just about the basic grill anymore. Homeowners are customizing their outdoor kitchens with any indoor modern convenience that fits their lifestyle, from built-in gourmet cooking stations and brick ovens to wine coolers and beer taps.

Geometric patterns:
Reflecting the trend of geometric patterns in home décor, homeowners are looking to incorporate patterns into their outdoor spaces through décor accents or to create designated social spaces much like an area rug does inside the home.

Gardening: Consumers are creating visually appealing vegetable and floral garden areas that integrate into their social spaces through landscape design of walkways, retaining walls and lighting.

Oversized pavers:
This trend began in 2012 and continues to grow in appeal as homeowners look to make their outdoor living spaces more contemporary in design and function.

Fire features, lighting: Features such as fireplaces, fire pits and fire tables allow homeowners to enjoy their patios in colder months, and lighting is being incorporated into walkways and stairways to guide the way after dark.

Water features: Rectangular shapes are substituting kidney- and oval-shaped pools, and water features such as waterfalls, ornamental pools and splash pools are growing in demand for landscapes.