BACKYARD ESCAPES
Create space to work from home, or build your staycation paradise
With more people than ever working from home, there's an increasing demand for backyard home offices and architectural elements that create that vacation-at-home feel.
Requests for stylish sheds and backyard cottages are high, says Leslie Adkins, vice-president of marketing at Trex, a Virginia-based company known for its outdoor design expertise and decking products.
“With working from home and hybrid schedules expected to continue, contractors report increased interest in outdoor spaces that can comfortably and functionally accommodate professionals,” says Adkins.
Our homes have become our offices, classrooms, fitness facilities and rehearsal spaces, so it's no wonder people have been suffering from cabin fever and investing in some sort of escape — even if it's just into the backyard, she says.
Pergolas have become very popular this year because they're an easy and affordable way to create shade cover for laptops and the feeling of an outdoor room.
“A pergola is perfect for creating the look and feel of an outdoor room, serving to frame a space while adding a distinct, architectural element. Incorporate traditionally interior accents like plush furnishings, accent pillows, throw blankets and an area rug — all weather resistant, of course — to create an inviting and comfortable outdoor haven,” adds Adkins.
If you have an elevated deck, it's worth taking advantage of the space underneath it, says Adkins, and it's something that people often overlook.
You'll want to start with good drainage, so the area is nice and dry and can then be used for working out, entertaining, or any of those day-to-day activities that people are now doing from home, she says.
Adkins reports that Trex has also noticed an increased demand for residential pools, spas and water features during the pandemic.
“Between travel restrictions and parents wanting to provide family entertainment, homeowners are taking the plunge and installing swimming pools, hot tubs and ponds in their backyards.”
And people are embracing DIY home projects like never before, she says. They are turning to sites like Youtube for how-to tips.
“Industry analysts are predicting DIY home projects and repairs will shift from a trend to a longterm habit,” she explains.
As people aren't travelling as they were before, they're also investing in making their homes feel more sophisticated and luxury resort-like. They're spending more money on water features, plush towels, plumped pillows, and modern deck railings, says Adkins, adding: “Homeowners are finding inspiration in commercial settings like upscale hotels and restaurants.”
If you're looking to improve your outdoor space, Adkins says that decking is a good place to start — adding usable square footage to your home — but remember that the materials you use really matter.
Starting a vegetable garden is another great idea, or just investing in some potted plants or backyard flowers.
“If you're looking to create privacy, a popular and eco-friendly solution is to build a living wall that can shield you from neighbours while surrounding your outdoor space with flowers and fresh herbs. Planter boxes for a vertical wall are relatively easy to build. If your skills are more advanced, consider adding a drip irrigation system, so you don't have to worry about watering,” she says.
Lattice is another excellent option for creating privacy and concealing storage areas from where you might be sitting to dine or entertain while outdoors.
Good lighting outdoors is key, says Adkins, and extends the amount of time you can spend in your front or backyard. She says there are many easy “plug-and-play” outdoor lighting installations that have energy efficient LED bulb options that don't get hot, making them safe for kids and pets.
If you want to improve your home's curb appeal, replacing deck railings is an easy way to elevate the look, she says.
“Give your outdoor space an instant facelift by replacing your old wood deck railing with sleek, sophisticated aluminum railing.”