Outdoor living has become one of the strongest renovation trends, especially since the pandemic increased the value of home leisure spaces. Across Canada, the USA, the UK, and New Zealand, homeowners are investing in outdoor hacks that extend the use of patios, decks, and gardens.
In Canada and northern states of the USA, fire pits, patio heaters, and covered pergolas allow outdoor spaces to be used even in cooler months. In the UK, homeowners often build small garden offices or insulated sheds, combining outdoor living with work from home needs. New Zealand, with its mild climate, has seen a rise in outdoor kitchens complete with pizza ovens and BBQ stations.
A simple hack across all regions is the use of layered outdoor lighting. String lights, solar path lights, and spotlights create atmosphere while improving safety. Another common trick is using weather resistant materials like composite decking, which lasts longer than traditional wood.
For small spaces, foldable furniture and vertical gardens maximize usability. Outdoor storage benches provide seating while keeping items protected from the weather. In coastal areas, homeowners are even using windbreak screens and retractable awnings to shield against strong breezes.
Conclusion. Outdoor living hacks show that with the right renovations, patios and gardens can be functional year round, transforming underused spaces into valuable extensions of the home.