Expand Your Living Space with the Addition of An Outdoor Patio or Deck
Almost everyone wants more space in their home, but many aren’t sure how to accomplish this without knocking down walls or spending a lot of time and money on an addition. Some homeowners try to create a “multi-purpose” room by combining a home office with a guest room, play area, den, etc. Too often they end up with a space that really doesn’t accomplish anything.
But what if you could get all the additional space you want at a fraction of the cost? Outdoor living can expand your home and turn your yard into a kitchen, dining room, entertainment area, reading nook, craft area, and more. Everything you’ve dreamed of can be attained.
Add Outdoor Space
To create an outdoor kitchen and dining space, all you need is a grill and a weather resistant table and chairs. Enjoy the warm spring and summer evenings by inviting friends and family to join you for dinner outdoors. Add some comfy pillows, and they may never want to leave.
Build a patio with paving stones for an area to place furniture. Or build a deck on the back of your home. Consider how you entertain and be sure you have enough seating for everyone.
Create A Room
If you already have a patio or covered deck, you’re halfway there. By enclosing this area, you now have usable space free from bugs and bad weather. Ordinarily, a simple structure, adding screens or windows to a deck can create an entertainment space, an art studio, craft room, or a summer playroom with indoor/outdoor space.
Sunrooms can be easily added to your existing home. These are usually sturdier structures and used year-round compared to a screened porch or open deck. Sunrooms most often have a concrete foundation, tile floors, and electricity. These areas can be used as a home gym, office, or reading nook. This is a room that will get lots of use.
Build An Outdoor Room
Instead of creating space connected to the house, what about building a separate room in the backyard? But check on building codes and regulations first. You may be limited to the size and use of this space. If you decide to install electricity or plumbing, you’ll need to pull permits as well.
Because this will be a permanent structure, be sure about where you want it. Close to the back door for easy access? In an unused corner of the yard? Somewhere in between?
Room Ideas
Sometimes called a “Man cave” or a “She shed,” converted sheds are a great way to create an additional room in your backyard. Some sheds are wood while others are metal, and these structures can provide a relaxing place to get away from it all. Converted to a yoga studio, game room, sewing room, teen hang out, etc., a large door can be left open for air flow and sunlight.
How about a vintage trailer? Parked in the corner of the yard, this a great alternative to an indoor guest room with space for sleeping and eating. It could also be used as a home office.
Looking outside as an alternative living space, homeowners will be amazed at how much room they can create with the addition of a simple deck or patio. Outdoor living is a breeze.