Every year brings new and fresh ideas. However, since 2020 and the start of covid, homeowners have put more focus into the exterior living spaces of their homes. From relaxing days in the pool and spa, to family gatherings, to just spending time in nature, the outdoor of the home will continue to be a focus in 2023.

So, what are the trends that are likely to be popular in 2023?

Natural Stone Pathways

Pittsburgh weather can be unpredictable at best. This often leaves a soggy lawn, especially if the home builder did not adequately prepare for drainage. One solution to getting from your patio to your Sport Court basketball court without getting your shoes muddy, or without paving your entire backyard would be to use natural-looking stones.

The stones can be made from brushed or textured stones made of granite, porcelain, sandstone, or limestone. Natural stone pathways provide a low maintenance and natural look to your backyard.

Porcelain

Porcelain offers a large selection of beautiful surface designs. Because porcelain is non-porous, scratch/stain/heat resistant and maintenance free, it is ideal for all types of outdoor uses. It can be used for backsplash, countertops, and outdoor kitchens.

The strength of porcelain also makes it perfect for paver patios and other flooring applications.

Porcelain Slab from Mont Surfaces — *Image from Mont Surfaces*

Water Features

With so much going on in the world, sometimes it is important to clear your mind and escape. According to multiple studies, the sound of water can alleviate stress and help you relax. Adding a waterfall to your hillside, scuppers to your pool or spa, or even a water slide, can add that sound of falling water.

You can even take it one step further and combine fire and water with this bowl by PebbleTec that utilized propane or natural gas to keep the flames going.

Fire/Water Feature — *Venetia Backyard Getaway*

Indoor-Outdoor Merge

A top trend we are seeing involved seamlessly integrating indoor and outdoor living spaces. Popular in warmer climates, utilizing high end products and materials can open the spaces when the weather is nice and keep them separate when not.

It can also mean choosing luxe outdoor furniture that feels more like indoor pieces.

Athletic Training Spaces

Athletic training spaces do not have to be boring or be an eyesore. Multi-purpose surfaces like Sport Court can give families the opportunity to be together and build memories right in the back yard. They also give the flexibility to play multiple sports such as basketball, roller hockey, and tennis to name a few.

However, for those looking for single sport options, utilizing other materials and technologies can be the way to go. In this inspirational example from Unilock, you can see how pavers can be used to create a beautiful basketball area. For those if you into hockey, imagine how popular your family will be when you have the team over for an evening skate in your own backyard rink.

Natural Looking Turf

Gone are the days when turf looked like, well, turf. Many of us remember the days at Three Rivers Stadium in Pittsburgh, where both football and baseball were played on turf that looked anything but natural.

However, companies are creating realistic looking grass products for clients. While there are pros and cons to using turf in your project, the realism, color and texture styles, along with low maintenance, can make this the perfect option for homeowners with limited time on their hands for lawn care.

Natural Looking Turf in Upper St. Clair — *A Work of Art in Upper St. Clair*

Let PSW create your vision

If you are interested in any of the outdoor living trends listed above, start your journey PSW to find out how you can work these elements into your next outdoor renovation.