Examining the popularity of outdoor rooms
As homeowners review the vast array of renovation options, decks, porches and other outdoor living spaces consistently rank high both in terms of personal enjoyment and return on investment.
“A deck is a proven investment that on average returns more than 70 to 80 percent of the original money spent on the project,” said Chris Grandpre, president and CEO of Outdoor Living Brands, parent company of Archadeck, a builder of decks, sunrooms, screened porches and other custom outdoor living spaces. “There is also a definite quality of life aspect to an outdoor room, as it allows you to spend more time with friends and family in a space that you have custom-created for leisure and entertainment.”
Another benefit of outdoor room renovation projects is that they are not as intrusive or time-intensive as other construction projects in the home, an important factor for many homeowners. Once a design has been selected and contracts signed, an outdoor project such as a deck can be completed in as little as three to four weeks, depending on permits and inspections. An outdoor room with a roof structure such as a porch generally has a longer construction schedule depending on the scope of the project.
The outdoor living industry has expanded over the past several years, due in part to the growing popularity of outdoor entertaining and relaxing. While decks, porches and patios remain the mainstays of outdoor structures, there has been substantial growth in what are generally referred to as “outdoor rooms.”
Outdoor rooms often feature kitchens with complete ranges, refrigerators and food prep areas. Many homeowners combine multiple design elements, such as a composite deck, radius rail segments, privacy screens, built-in spas and elaborate staircases that lead to luscious landscaped beds.
Grandpre notes that the growing interest in outdoor living has significantly changed his business over the last few years as homeowners seek to create outdoor spaces that are as comfortable and functional as their indoor environments.
Over the past several years, only about half of all our building projects have been traditional decks,” Grandpre said. “The design and lifestyle possibilities with outdoor rooms have greatly expanded and include hardscapes, fire pits, outdoor kitchens and pergolas, all of which our design team can accommodate. There is virtually an outdoor room design for every need and budget.”
Article courtesy of Archadeck.
