The Most Popular Outdoor Living Trends in Northern Virginia 

Creating luxury outdoor spaces has been on the rise in recent years, and it’s only getting more popular. Homeowners have been investing in their outdoor living spaces as a way to spend time with friends and family,  and enjoy the great outdoors. Here are some of the most popular outdoor living trends to look out for in Northern Virginia.

Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Design For Outdoor Spaces

As climate change continues to be a pressing issue, more and more homeowners are seeking ways to make their outdoor living spaces more sustainable and eco-friendly. This means using materials that are renewable and biodegradable, as well as incorporating features that conserve water and energy. Some examples of sustainable design elements include rainwater harvesting systems and eco-friendly decking materials.

Natural Stone and Wood Accents

Natural materials are becoming increasingly popular in outdoor living design, as they create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Stone and wood accents, in particular, are expected to be on-trend in 2023. Stone pavers, for example, can be used to create pathways and patios that add texture and visual interest to outdoor spaces. Wood can be used to create decking, pergolas, and other outdoor structures that provide shade and a natural look.

Outdoor Kitchen Design

Outdoor kitchens have been a popular trend for several years now, and they’re not going away anytime soon. With more homeowners opting to stay in and cook their meals at home, outdoor kitchens provide a fun and functional way to entertain guests and prepare meals outside. Outdoor kitchens can be designed with all the features of an indoor kitchen, including a grill, refrigerator, sink, and even a pizza oven.

Outdoor Fire Features

Fire features, such as fire pits and outdoor fireplaces, continue to be a popular trend in outdoor living design. Not only do they provide warmth and light, but they also create a cozy and inviting atmosphere that’s perfect for entertaining. Fire features can be designed in a variety of styles, from rustic and natural to sleek and modern.

Fire brings literal warmth to an outdoor space, of course, but it also brings a cozy sense of togetherness, perhaps unlike any other outdoor feature.

Types of fire features include:

• Fire pits
• Outdoor fireplaces
• Linear gas fire features
• Torch or goblet fire features

You can also install thermostatically controlled radiant heaters to expand your season!

Multi-Functional Outdoor Spaces

Outdoor living spaces are no longer limited to just one function. Homeowners are seeking versatile outdoor spaces that can be used for a variety of activities, from dining and lounging to gardening and playing games. As a result, multi-functional spaces are becoming a popular trend in outdoor living design. This means designing outdoor spaces with flexible seating arrangements, movable furniture, and spaces that can easily transition from day to night.

Smart Outdoor Technology

Smart technology is no longer limited to just the indoors. In 2023, we can expect to see more outdoor living spaces designed with smart technology, including outdoor speakers, Wi-Fi, and smart lighting. This allows homeowners to control their outdoor living spaces with the touch of a button, making it easier to create the perfect ambiance for any occasion.

Bold Colors and Patterns

While natural and neutral colors have been popular in outdoor living design, bold colors and patterns are expected to make a comeback in 2023. Bright colors and bold patterns can add a pop of personality and make outdoor spaces feel more vibrant and energetic. Some popular colors and patterns to look out for include shades of blue, green, and yellow, as well as geometric patterns and floral prints.

Vertical Gardens

Vertical gardens, also known as living walls, are becoming an increasingly popular trend in outdoor living design. These gardens are created by attaching plants to a wall or other vertical surface, allowing homeowners to enjoy the benefits of gardening without sacrificing valuable ground space. Vertical gardens can be designed in a variety of styles, from lush and tropical to sleek and modern. With many homes in Northern Virginia being spaced close to neighbors, adding specimen trees to create privacy and beautify your outdoor living space is another popular design idea.

Luxury Swimming Pools

Bring the resort experience straight to your backyard! The team at Freedom Design + Build, Inc. specializes in custom, luxury swimming pool installation in Northern Virginia. 

Our award-winning design team will guide you through a custom design experience, making recommendations on features, materials, & technology to ensure you fully enjoy your swimming pool.

Common types of swimming pools include:

• Classic pools
• Vanishing edges or infinity pools
• Natural pools
• Freeform pools
• Contemporary pools
• Saltwater swimming pool

Outdoor Water Features

Water features, such as fountains and waterfalls, are a trend that’s expected to continue into 2023. Achieve a sense of calmness & serenity with a custom water feature. Much like with a fire feature, you’ll want to consider the size, placement, & type of water feature. Depending on your desires, you may want to add a waterfall, fountain, pond, or other water feature to your outdoor space.

Types of water features include:

• Sheer descent waterfalls
• Natural stone waterfalls
• Koi ponds
• Fountains
• Deck jets
• Laminar jets

Luxury Outdoor Living Contractor in Great Falls, VA

There are many exciting outdoor living trends to look out for in 2023. From sustainable and eco-friendly design to bold colors and patterns, homeowners have many options when it comes to creating the perfect outdoor living space. By incorporating these trends into their designs, homeowners can create a space that’s both functional and stylish, and that they can enjoy for years to come.