Janet Cook
The backyard is becoming more than just having a covered patio with chairs and a barbecue grill. According to the newly released 2026 U.S. Houzz Outdoor Trends Study, homeowners are transforming outdoor spaces into true extensions of the home—places to relax, cook, dine, entertain and even retreat for some quiet time. Wellness-focused units such as saunas and cold plunge tubs are emerging as well.
Comfort and functionality take center stage. A remarkable 83% of renovated outdoor spaces now include a lounge or seating area with indoor-style furnishings. Dining areas are also popular, appearing in 55% of renovated spaces. Forty-eight percent of the projects included a fireplace or fire pit. Seventy-seven percent of the projects included outdoor lighting, 80% included landscape lights and 37% string/bistro lights to create ambiance. These spaces can be used for everything from a morning cup of coffee to dinner with friends and family.
All inclusive kitchen. For homeowners who enjoy entertaining, a well-designed outdoor kitchen is both sophisticated and versatile helping to eliminate the need to go back and forth to the indoor kitchen. Sixty-eight percent go beyond just having a grill and countertop, and include a beverage refrigerator (62%), sink (59%), and approximately 1/3 included a TV, cooktop and pizza oven as well. Homeowners are wanting a second kitchen, with sufficient storage.
Shade is becoming a bigger priority, too. The percentage of homeowners adding shade structures jumped significantly this year, included in 35% of outdoor renovations. In Arizona, this isn’t simply a design feature; it can determine whether an outdoor space is comfortable enough to use for much of the year. Covered patios, pergolas and strategically placed shade can make a tremendous difference. Low maintenance landscaping can add to the shade and provide privacy screening.
As outdoor spaces become more complex—with structures, lighting, kitchens, landscaping and utilities working together—the majority of homeowners (71%) hired a professional for their outdoor renovation. Professional planning can help ensure the pieces function as cohesive spaces that flow.
Outdoor remodeling is a way to get more usable space without needing to build an addition. It can make your home work better for the way you want to live by creating a space you want to enjoy for most of the year.
Happy Outdoor Home Remodeling!
Janet Cook, Certified Health Coach and Aging in Place Specialist, President of Cook Remodeling (celebrating our 47th year) invites you to check out their new website for inspiring photos and tips.