Let’s Go Outside: 2022 Outdoor Living Picks | Home + Garden

The Pacific Northwest is often a rainy, gray, and windy place to live. So most residents are used to braving whatever Mother Nature wants to dish out and being outdoors regardless. It’s not surprising, then, that outdoor living spaces have caught — and hung — on here.

Homeowners are renovating to include better backyard spaces. Builders, including those at MN Custom Homes in Bellevue, are including special spaces in new home builds. All of the 425 Northwest Idea Homes in recent years have showcased amazing outdoor areas, and the trend seems like it is here to stay.

Whether you have a tiny patio, a large deck, a spacious backyard or even a small balcony, any outdoor area can be turned into an inviting space with a little creativity.

Pretty Pergolas

According to Wayfair’s Outdoor Trend Report 2022, people are shopping for pergola kits (searches are up 369 percent), and wrought iron chairs also are on the hot list.

$1,595 | wayfair.com

Loaded and Luxurious

If the sky is the limit, then consider creating a large outdoor area with all the creature comforts. Think a large covered area complete with cushy furniture, and maybe a swinging chair or hammock. Add a sound system and a TV that is safe for outdoors, and install an outdoor kitchen. Your home will be perfect for entertaining.

Fire it Up!

There is nothing cozier than gathering around the fire. This custom fire bowl by Mark Schreck Concrete Designs in Olympia fits the bill and is always ready: it is hooked up with a natural gas line.

Carefree Fencing

This semiprivate CertainTeed Bufftech fence is made from premium polyvinyl and is UV-resistant and will not rot, warp, splinter, or fade.

Make it an All-Weather Space

Block the sun with Rainier Industries Shade Power Screens. The retractable shades and awning are operated by remote control. rainier.com

Add a ceiling fan when you want to move the air around. If you want to be toasty on cold days, consider a heater. On the ceiling in this outdoor kitchen is a Bromic Heating Tungsten Pro Series heater from Albert Lee Appliance. albertlee.biz

Bounce it Out

Consider adding a Springfree Trampoline in the backyard for the kids. springfree.com

Keep Bugs Away

The Thermacell Patio Shield mosquito repeller is effective without DEET or flames.

$20 | amazon.com

Plant Native

Did you know that if you choose native plants in your landscape, they need little tending? Be kind to your time and the environment, and choose wisely. olympiclandscape.com

Add Whimsy

Outdoor LED lights add a touch of romance to any space. amazon.com

Outdoor rugs can add a pop of color to a patio and are easy to maintain. amazon.com

Customize your space with a personalized outdoor sign. There are several to choose from on etsy.com.