Are you maximizing your outdoor space? Outdoor rooms are becoming a prime entertainment and relaxation spot, no matter the season. Firepits and patio heaters help to extend the time homeowners can enjoy these areas throughout the year.

Home remodeling site Houzz highlighted “outdoor living rooms that look like indoor rooms” as one of the top home trends to watch in 2022. Houzz cites homeowner survey data that shows people want their backyards to be relaxing extensions of their interior living spaces.

“The best way to do that is through mimicry,” Houzz designers note in their 2022 forecast. “There have been major advances in outdoor materials in recent years, allowing manufacturers to create stylish and durable outdoor sofas, tables, rugs, chairs, and decor.”

Outdoor fireplaces and television sets complete the feel of a lounge area.

As homeowners expand and decorate these outdoor spaces, they also are craving privacy. They’re adding screens, fences, plantings, and using other strategies to help create intimate spaces and separation from neighbors. They also may turn to plantings and fences to try to block an undesirable view.

For example, they may use a vine-covered pergola, an outdoor screen around a private dining spot, or fencing for an outdoor shower or hot tub.

Some homeowners also are adding in standalone structures, which, Houzz designers note, is another hot trend for 2022. These may include standalone structures that can be used as a home office, gym, meditation area, or even an extended living space to house relatives or guests.