Want a home that feels bigger without adding a single room?
Homeowners across the country are discovering the solutions that lie right in their own backyard. The garden is no longer just a lawn; it’s turning into a place to:
- Relax after work
- Eat dinner with the family
- Host friends on the weekend
The numbers back that up, too. Americans say they intend to spend an average of 11.7 hours per week in their yards, compared with 9.6 hours the year before. That’s an increase of 22% year over year.
Here’s the problem:
A backyard oasis is only functional if you can actually use it. Extreme sun, an unexpected rainstorm or a cool night will have everyone racing indoors.
Let’s jump in!
Inside this guide:
- The Hidden Problem With Most Outdoor Spaces
- Why The Backyard Became The New Living Room
- Why Outdoor Living Is Worth The Money
- 5 Top Backyard Retreat Upgrades Right Now
- How To Plan Your Own Backyard Retreat
The Hidden Problem With Most Outdoor Spaces
Most backyards have one big weakness…
The weather.
By noon on a summer day, the sun scorches your patio. In minutes, rain can wash out a dinner party. Eventually, your outdoor furniture fades and cracks without any protection.
That’s why pergolas are often a homeowner’s first choice. A pergola creates the distinct feeling of “being in a room.” You get a framework to work with. However, open pergolas offer no protection from sun or rain.
That’s where a translucent pergola cover comes in. It keeps rain and harsh UV rays away while still allowing soft natural light to filter through to the area underneath. When shopping around for pergola cover solutions, a translucent pergola cover allows you to enjoy shade and protection from the elements without the gloomy enclosed feel of an opaque roof.
Pretty clever, right?
It’s the difference between a pergola you wish you could enjoy year-round and one you actually can.
Why The Backyard Became The New Living Room
COVID was the catalyst. Families couldn’t go anywhere, so their backyards became their sanctuary.
But here’s what’s interesting…
The trend never faded. It became amplified. Thumbtack and Zillow conducted a survey in which 60% of homeowners admitted to canceling plans so they could stay home and enjoy their backyard.
Think about that for a second.
People would rather stay home and eat on their patio instead of going out. That says something about how important a nice patio is.
Homeowners today are looking for a backyard retreat. A place to unwind in private, where they can relax. A space that transports them away — without airfare.
Why Outdoor Living Is Worth The Money
Investing in your backyard feels like splurging. But according to the numbers, it isn’t.
It Boosts Home Value
Buyers notice your outdoor space immediately. That’s why 98% of industry pros agree that an updated outdoor living space greatly affects your home’s value.
Even real estate agents say so. In a survey conducted by the National Association of Realtors, 92% of Realtors said they would recommend improving curb appeal before putting a house on the market.
First impressions sell houses.
It’s Cheaper Than Moving
Looking for more space? You could buy a larger home… or learn how to use the space you have.
Outdoor living spaces are a fraction of the price of relocation. Gain an additional “room” without increasing your mortgage payment, moving expenses or changing neighborhoods.
It’s Good For You
Spending time outdoors relaxes you, rejuvenates you and lets you spend quality time with your loved ones. Having a backyard getaway provides you with an everyday supply of fresh air right in your own home.
Plus it’s not all about you. Your kids have a safe place to play. Your pets have space to roam. Your friends have more excuses to visit.
It all adds up to a happier home.
That’s a win-win-win.
5 Top Backyard Retreat Upgrades Right Now
So what are homeowners actually building? The most popular projects fall into five groups:
- Shade and shelter: pergolas, covers and shade sails
- Warmth: fire pits and patio heaters
- Privacy: screens, hedges and trellis walls
- Lighting: string lights, path lights and wall lights
- Outdoor kitchens: grills, pizza ovens and bar areas
But don’t rush out and buy everything at once!
Smart homeowners think in layers. First, they build shelter because a covered area can be used more months out of the year. Next, they include items to make the space more comfortable, such as lighting and heating. Finally, they throw in the WOW factor. Outdoor kitchens or fire pits are great examples.
It really is that simple.
A translucent pergola cover is ideal for this purpose. It shelters your furniture, maintains brightness and amplifies the value of every other improvement.
How To Plan Your Own Backyard Retreat
Ready to create your own outdoor escape? Here’s how to do it…
Step #1: Decide How You’ll Use It
Are you going to dine there? Lounge? Entertain large crowds? Your answers will determine everything else. Flow. Furniture.
Step #2: Fix The Weather Problem First
Observe where the sun shines down and where rain pools up. Determine your shading and coverage prior to all else. Protection can double how many days you spend outdoors.
Step #3: Set A Realistic Budget
Projects outdoors can become expensive. Create a list of things you “must have” and things you “want”. Purchase the “must have” items first.
Step #4: Add Comfort And Style
Now the fun stuff. Add some comfy chairs, soft lighting, plants and some personal touches.
This is what turns a backyard into a retreat.
The Bottom Line
The backyard oasis is more than a trend. Americans are spending more time outdoors than ever before… and they’re spending money to make the most of it.
To quickly recap:
- Outdoor living adds real value to your home
- It’s cheaper than moving to a bigger house
- Weather protection is the key to using your space all year
- A translucent pergola cover gives shade without losing natural light
- Building in layers saves time and money
Begin with shelter. Build comfort and revel in the space you didn’t know you had.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a translucent pergola cover?
A translucent pergola cover is a roof panel or pergola fabric that allows light through but blocks rain and UV rays. It keeps your pergola illuminated and shaded.
Do outdoor living spaces add value to a home?
Yes. Realtors and real estate professionals believe that a functional outdoor space adds curb appeal and contributes to a home selling. Patios, decks and covered seating areas are very desirable.
What is the best first upgrade for a backyard retreat?
Shade/shelter. If you don’t have somewhere to escape the rain or sun, you won’t spend much time there. Consider that first, followed by lighting/heating/furniture.
