Blog Layout

Enhancing Your Outdoor Living Space: A Guide to the Latest Landscape Trends

Jan 08, 2020

Outdoor living, a cherished tradition, has evolved dramatically. Early 20th-century homeowners began with plain stairs and welcome mats, which, over time, morphed into beautiful front porches by the mid-1900s, marking the inception of a burgeoning trend.


The evolution extended beyond porches into modern times, giving rise to modern patio designs and full-fledged outdoor living spaces. These lush, comfortably furnished spaces offer a respite from indoor confines while maintaining home comforts.


Now, the allure of aesthetically pleasing and functional outdoor living spaces captivates homeowners, symbolizing not just a place to sit but a lifestyle that resonates with modern desires.

Modern Outdoor Trends: Making Home Extensions

According to a survey of 300 residential architects, designers, and design-minded builders, 58% of respondents emphasized that a connection to nature will heavily influence their design preferences in the upcoming years, underscoring a growing appreciation for outdoor aesthetics. Let’s take a look into parts of our homes following this trend.


Outdoor Kitchens


The heart of a home is often its kitchen. Taking the kitchen outdoors is a trend that has caught the fancy of many homeowners. Imagine grilling under the open sky, with a soft breeze around. Outdoor kitchens, with their stoves, grills, rotisserie, and weatherproof dining tables, bring a different culinary experience. They blend the warmth of cooking with the freshness of nature. It's one of the outdoor living trends that not only caters to the stomach but also to the soul.


Kids' Play Areas


Having a safe space for kids to play is a priority for many families. An outdoor play area allows children to interact with nature while enjoying a secure play area. Features like a sandbox or a jungle gym offer endless hours of fun and learning. It's a perfect blend of safety, enjoyment, and learning, making the outdoors a playground of imagination for the little ones.


Gardens and Vegetable Plots


Gardening is therapeutic. The joy of watching a seed turn into a sapling and then into a full-grown plant is unparalleled. Modern homeowners are turning towards creating vegetable plots and gardens in their outdoor spaces. Raised vegetable gardens are not just about the fresh vegetables they yield but also about the almost meditative process. This trend is a testimony to the therapeutic benefits of the outdoors, offering a slice of farm life in suburban homes.

The Pandemic Influence on Outdoor Time

2020 ushered in the unanticipated challenge of the Covid-19 pandemic, transforming our homes into our entire world. As indoor confinement grew, so did the longing for fresh air and open spaces, highlighting the therapeutic benefits of the outdoors.


The pandemic reignited our affection for outdoor spaces, with simple pleasures like morning coffee on the patio or a garden picnic becoming the day's highlights. This newfound appreciation significantly shaped outdoor living space design trends, with homeowners eager to enhance their outdoor areas' comfort, functionality, and aesthetics.


This period saw a rise in modern patio designs, each aiming to encapsulate nature's essence while offering a comforting retreat. The pandemic underscored the importance of a personal sanctuary at home, accentuating the therapeutic benefits of outdoor spaces more than ever.

Innovative Ideas to Amplify Outdoor Space

Patios and Fire Pits

Outdoor Patio With Firepit

Everyone dreams of the charm of a cozy fire pit on a chilly evening. Patios and fire pits have become essential elements of modern outdoor living trends. They provide a warm and comfy space to relax and add a dash of luxury to your home. A well-designed patio with a fire pit can turn any ordinary evening into a special one. The flickering flames under the starlit sky create a magical atmosphere perfect for unwinding after a long day.

Pergolas: A Touch of Ancient Beauty

Outdoor Pergola

Pergolas are a timeless addition to any outdoor space. Their history traces back to Ancient Rome, adding a touch of classic elegance wherever they stand. Modern pergola landscaping ideas are about blending the ancient charm with contemporary needs. They are a beautiful framework for climbing plants, creating a green canopy overhead. Underneath, you can have a seating area, a dining table, or even a cozy outdoor library. Pergolas add an architectural edge to your garden while providing a shaded relaxing spot.

Fairy-tale Walkways & Water Features

Every homeowner dreams of having a fairy-tale garden. Vibrant flowers, meandering walkways, and the soothing sound of water features can transport anyone to a magical world. Adding a pond, a small waterfall, or a fountain can dramatically enhance the aesthetics of your garden. It’s not just about the visual appeal; the sound of trickling water calms the mind. Pair this with a beautifully paved walkway, and you have an enchanted garden at your doorstep. When put together, these elements create a surreal ambiance that celebrates the beauty of nature and serenity.

Water Features

Health Benefits of Outdoor Living

The outdoors holds a treasure trove of health benefits waiting to be discovered. It's not just about the fresh air; it's about the sunshine, the greenery, and the open space that lets you stretch out. When you step outside, you enter a world that’s naturally equipped to enhance your well-being. Let's explore some health benefits of spending time in well-designed outdoor spaces.


There's something about the sun shining down on you; it lifts your spirit and provides your body with essential vitamin D. This vitamin is crucial for keeping our bones healthy. Additionally, natural sunlight helps regulate our sleep cycle. Having a comfy spot in your garden to soak up some sun can be beneficial.


Playing outdoors or simply lounging in your garden can reduce cortisol levels - the hormone associated with stress. The therapeutic benefits of the outdoors are immense. It’s not just about the physical activity; the tranquility and beauty of a well-maintained outdoor space provide mental peace and a break from the daily grind. Your garden can become your sanctuary, helping you to unwind and relax.


Furthermore, outdoor spaces provide a great environment for kids and pets to play, promoting physical activity and a sense of freedom. This exposure to nature can be particularly beneficial for individuals with ADHD, providing a calming environment that helps in alleviating symptoms. It’s a natural playground that promotes health and happiness for every family member.

Uplifting Poolside Landscaping

Your poolside area has the potential to become a personal oasis, a place where the water meets greenery, creating a serene ambiance. With the right poolside greenery enhancements, this area can transform into a beautiful escape right in your backyard.


Imagine a pool surrounded by potted greenery, hedges, and perhaps a few tall palms swaying gently in the breeze. A stone or decorative concrete deck extends alongside the pool, offering a warm and comfy space to lounge and soak up the sun. It's not just about the visual appeal; it’s about creating an atmosphere that induces relaxation.


Having a well-designed poolside landscape adds to the vacation-like vibe. It beckons you to step outside, take a dip in the calm waters, and later lounge by the pool with a refreshing drink in hand. It's about creating an environment that celebrates relaxation, leisure, and the simple joys of life. So, why wait for a vacation when you can create a vacation spot right at home?

The First Impression: Front Yard Landscaping

As the initial glimpse into your home, the front yard plays a crucial role in making the right impression, reflecting a well-maintained aesthetic and the personality and care invested in your home. A modern transformation featuring inviting pathways, vibrant flower beds, and a quaint water feature can morph a mundane front yard into a captivating prelude to your home, potentially becoming a neighborhood envy.


The Future of Home Design survey reveals that an open yard ranks low among design professionals, with just 28% of respondents choosing this type of space, compared to more popular features like covered outdoor rooms/open-air rooms (73%), patios (68%), and decks (55%).


Moreover, a landscaped front yard adds value to your property. It’s not just about the visual appeal but the functional space that can be utilized in many ways. Whether it's a small garden, a lawn, or a quaint sitting area, every element adds a unique charm. So, investing in your front yard is like investing in making a remarkable first impression.

Frontyard Lanscaping

Seeking Professional Help: Emerald Meadows Landscaping

Embarking on a landscaping project can be a daunting task. The desire to create a beautiful outdoor space exists, but where does one start? This is where professional landscaping services come into play. They guide you through the journey, turning your vision into a tangible reality in your backyard. And when it comes to professional help, Emerald Meadows Landscaping stands tall.


At Emerald Meadows Landscaping, the focus is on understanding your vision, your preferences, and your lifestyle. The goal is to create an outdoor space that's beautiful and a reflection of you. Whether you dream of a modern patio, an outdoor kitchen, or a tranquil garden, the skilled team at Emerald Meadows has the experience and expertise to bring your dreams to fruition. And the journey towards creating your perfect outdoor space begins with a simple conversation.


Offering professional landscaping services in the Indianapolis area and beyond, Emerald Meadows Landscaping has a rich portfolio of satisfied customers. The landscaping journey is a collaborative one. Every step, from design to execution, is carried out with your input, ensuring the final result is something you'll love and enjoy for years to come. So, if you're in Indianapolis or the surrounding areas, your yard of dreams is just a call away.
Contact Us to get started on your outdoor living space transformation.

Revitalize Your Home With A Custom Outdoor Living Space

The idea of revitalizing your home goes beyond just the interiors. It's about extending the comfort and aesthetics of your indoor space to the outdoors. And in this endeavor, the outdoor living space design trends play a pivotal role. They provide a roadmap, a source of inspiration for homeowners looking to create a beautiful and functional outdoor space.


The transformation an outdoor space brings to a home is indeed remarkable. It's not just about adding value to your property; it's about enhancing the quality of life. A well-designed outdoor space becomes an extension of your home, providing a perfect spot for relaxation, entertainment, and creating beautiful memories with loved ones.


In conclusion, investing in a well-designed outdoor living space is investing in a lifestyle filled with joy, relaxation, and closeness to nature. It's about creating a space that resonates with your personality and meets the needs of your family. Explore our
Inspiration Gallery for ideas that can help transform your home, making it a true reflection of you. So, take the plunge, explore the latest outdoor living trends, and embark on a journey to create a unique outdoor space you'll cherish.

About Us: Emerald Meadows Landscaping, Indianapolis' #1 Landscaping and Hardscaping Design Company is dedicated to offering comprehensive landscape design and construction services in Indianapolis and surrounding communities. Our passion is to create the perfect outdoor living space tailored to your needs, making your home truly unique. Whether it’s a custom deck, patio, water feature, pergola, outdoor kitchen, or more, we are here to bring your dreams to life.

Snow over plants
By Elliot Young 17 Nov, 2023
Expert Tips to preparing your lawn and landscaping for winter from Emerald Meadow Landscaping.
Patio Fire pit
By Elliott Young 10 Oct, 2023
Tips to help you decide whether a fireplace or fire pit is right for you from Indianapolis’s #1 landscaping company. Making outdoor living dreams come true.
Family-At-fire-pit
By Elliott Young 21 Oct, 2020
Did you know that fire pits are among the most popular outdoor features of a home's landscape today?
raised-paver-garden
By Elliott Young 24 Jul, 2020
Emerald Meadows Landscaping is your first choice for professional hardscaping advice and construction throughout the metropolitan Indianapolis area.
Share by: