Homeowners Increasingly Seek Welcoming Outdoor Spaces
Homeowners Increasingly Seek Welcoming Outdoor Spaces to Enjoy Time with Loved Ones
Homebuyers are prioritizing more thoughtfully designed outdoor spaces, and builders are responding with innovative solutions. From compact pools to lush courtyards, the demand for functional and inviting exteriors is reshaping residential design.
Compact Luxury: The Rise of “Spools”
JKD Builder, a custom home builder in the Austin, TX area, reports growing interest in spools – hybrid features combining small pools and large spas. These space-saving water features typically measure 10-15 feet long and 6-8 feet wide, offering an accessible option for smaller properties and budgets.
Reimagined Side Yards: Courtyard Retreats
Fielding Homes is transforming underutilized spaces at its Masons Bend development in Fort Hill, SC. Their upcoming Terrace Collection features wide, shallow lots that maximize natural light while minimizing backyard maintenance. Standard inclusions will feature:
- Designed gate arbors
- Lush landscaping
- Exterior furnishings integrated with indoor living spaces
Priced in the mid-$300,000s, this concept will expand to Raleigh, NC, in coming years.
Premium Outdoor Features
Builders now offer diverse upgrades to enhance outdoor living:
- Covered patios & outdoor kitchens
- Pool cabanas & shade structures
- Specialty flooring (flagstone/pavers)
- Fire features (pits, fireplaces)
- Artisanal additions (pizza ovens, water features)
Selection depends on budget and lot size, with many features offered as upgrades rather than standard inclusions.
Design Considerations for Every Budget
Space Efficiency
Industry experts suggest a minimum outdoor space of 10ft deep by 12-13ft wide for functional use. Even modest patios can become multi-season extensions of indoor living areas when properly designed.
Climate Control Solutions
Architectural features like awnings and overhangs serve dual purposes:
- Provide shade and reduce heat gain
- Allow winter sunlight penetration
- Create seamless indoor-outdoor transitions
Biophilic Design Integration
The growing biophilic design movement emphasizes nature connectivity. Even basic outdoor spaces can become:
- Extended living rooms
- Outdoor workspaces
- Meditation/gathering areas
Market Trends Driving Change
Recent shifts in residential construction include:
| Trend | Impact |
|---|---|
| Smaller home footprints | Larger proportional outdoor spaces |
| Younger homebuyers | Increased demand for family-friendly yards |
| Lot size reduction | Median lot size: 8,562 sq ft (2025) |
Industry Data Highlights
- 5,000+ sq ft homes declined from 28,000 (2015) to 24,000 (2025)
- Outdoor spaces ranked #1 special feature in AIA surveys (2014-2015)
- Over 50% of builders expanded outdoor options since 2015
Sustainable Future Outlook
As lot prices reach record highs ($45,000 median) and environmental concerns grow, architects emphasize:
- Multi-functional design
- Low-maintenance landscapes
- Energy-efficient outdoor features
This shift reflects broader changes in how families utilize their homes, blending indoor comfort with outdoor accessibility.
