The Outdoor Living Trend in UK
Outdoor living has become increasingly popular in the UK, with more and more homeowners investing in their outdoor space. In fact, a recent survey found 70% of British homeowners spend at least two hours a week in their garden or outdoor area. This trend is fueled by several factors including the desire for extra living space and an increased focus on health and wellbeing.
One of the key reasons behind this shift towards outdoor living is the desire for additional living areas. Many homeowners are looking to create an extension of their indoor living space by adding features such as patios, outdoor kitchens and seating areas. These spaces not only provide extra room for entertaining friends and family but also increase property value.
Popular Outdoor Living Spaces
Patios and Decks
Patios and decks are two of the most popular outdoor living spaces that homeowners and renters alike love. They offer ample space to entertain guests, host barbeque parties, or simply relax with a cup of coffee under the sun or stars. Both patios and decks can be customised to your liking, whether you prefer a wood finish or sleek concrete flooring. And while these outdoor living spaces provide comfort during the warmer months, they can quickly become unusable in colder temperatures.
That’s where outdoor infrared heaters come in handy. These heating devices give you the opportunity to enjoy your patio or deck year-round by providing warmth even when the temperature drops outside. Plus, they don’t take up too much space and can be easily installed on walls or ceilings depending on your preference. With an outdoor infrared heater, you won’t have to worry about bundling up every time you step outside during autumn or winter evenings.
Outdoor Kitchens
Outdoor kitchens have become a popular trend in the UK, and for good reason. They provide homeowners with the opportunity to cook and entertain while enjoying fresh air and beautiful surroundings. Outdoor kitchens can range from simple grilling stations to fully equipped cooking spaces complete with countertops, sinks, refrigerators, and even pizza ovens.
One of the benefits of having an outdoor kitchen is that it expands your living space. Instead of being confined to indoor cooking and dining areas, you can take advantage of your garden or patio area. This allows you to host large gatherings or intimate dinners under the stars without feeling cramped or overcrowded.
Another benefit is that outdoor kitchens can add value to your home. With more people looking for an outdoor living space when purchasing a new home, having a well-designed outdoor kitchen can be a selling point.
Gardens and Green Spaces
Gardens and green spaces have always been popular outdoor living spaces for people of all ages. These open-air sanctuaries provide numerous physical, mental, and emotional benefits. They are a great way to escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life and enjoy the beauty of nature.
The allure of gardens is that they can be customised to reflect personal style, taste, and preferences. They can range from small patchwork plots to vast landscapes with different types of flowers, trees, herbs, vegetables which give homeowners a chance for creativity. Additionally, green spaces offer a place for relaxation or recreation such as reading a book or playing sports with friends.
Apart from aesthetics advantages gardens also contribute positively to environmental preservation by increasing biodiversity around your home.
The Benefits of Outdoor Living
Improved Health and Wellbeing
Outdoor living is an excellent way to improve your health and wellbeing. Spending time outside allows you to soak up natural sunshine, which is a key source of vitamin D. This essential nutrient helps strengthen bones, boost the immune system, and promote overall physical health.
In addition to the physical benefits, outdoor living also has a positive impact on mental health. Exposure to nature has been shown to reduce stress levels and improve mood. Being surrounded by greenery and fresh air can help quiet the mind, leading to greater clarity and focus throughout the day.
Increased Home Value
An outdoor living space adds valuable square footage to your home without adding actual interior space. A beautifully designed patio or deck creates an extension to your home, giving you more functional space for entertaining guests or just enjoying a quiet night outdoors. This extra space will enhance the appeal of your home, making it more attractive to potential buyers.
Trends in Outdoor Furniture and Decor
Comfortable and Stylish Seating
If you’re looking to spruce up your outdoor living space this season, you’ll be happy to know that the trends in outdoor furniture and decor are all about comfort and style. Homeowners are investing in creating relaxing and comfortable outdoor spaces and the best way to do so is by incorporating plush seating options that will allow you to unwind and enjoy the outdoors.
One of the biggest trends this year is modular seating, which allows for customisation based on your needs. These versatile pieces can be arranged in a variety of ways, making them perfect for entertaining or lounging alone. Another popular trend is deep-seated chairs with soft cushions or pillows that offer maximum comfort without compromising on style. These chairs come in a range of materials like wicker, metal, wood, or even rattan adding an elegant touch to any outdoor living space.
Eco-Friendly Materials
As the world becomes more environmentally conscious, the outdoor furniture and decor industry is following suit by embracing eco-friendly materials. Gone are the days when plastic and synthetic products were in vogue. Today, homeowners are looking for sustainable options that not only look good but also help reduce their carbon footprint.
One of the most popular trends in eco-friendly outdoor furniture is wood that has been certified by organisations like the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). This means that the wood comes from responsibly managed forests where trees are replanted to maintain a balance between harvesting and conservation. Teak, eucalyptus, and cedar are some FSC-certified woods that have gained popularity among homeowners due to their durability and natural beauty.
Another trend in eco-friendly outdoor decor is the use of recycled materials such as plastic bottles, scrap metal, and reclaimed wood.
Smart Technology Integration
Smart technology is changing the way people are living and interacting with their surroundings. As a result, outdoor furniture and decor is undergoing a transformation to keep up with this trend. With advancements in technology, there is an increasing demand for outdoor furniture that can connect to the internet and communicate with smart devices such as phones and tablets.
One of the key developments in smart outdoor furniture has been integrating wireless charging pads into tables and seating. This allows users to conveniently charge devices without wires and bulky chargers. Additionally, there has been increased interest in connected lighting solutions that can be controlled through apps or voice assistants. Smart lighting allows users to schedule, adjust brightness levels, and change colours based on their mood or occasion.
Embracing Outdoor Living
Embracing outdoor living in the UK is more than just a trend – it’s a lifestyle. The pandemic forced people to appreciate the beauty and benefits of nature, which is why many are investing more in their outdoor spaces. With a range of options available, from garden furniture to BBQs and fire pits, there’s never been a better time to enjoy the great outdoors. So why not take advantage of this trend and create your own oasis? Whether it’s for hosting summer parties or simply relaxing after a long day at work, outdoor living can offer something for everyone. Start by exploring your options and see how you can transform your backyard into an idyllic space that you’ll love spending time in.
