Whether your goal is to create a space for entertaining or to design a backyard oasis for relaxing after a long day, you may find yourself asking the same question as many homeowners: How much should I spend on an outdoor living space? From cozy patios with a fireplace to expansive decks surrounded by lush landscaping, the possibilities are endless. However, understanding the costs involved is essential for making informed decisions when designing your perfect space. In this comprehensive guide, we'll break down the costs of various outdoor living space features, explain what contributes to the range in prices, and ultimately, guide you towards creating the outdoor retreat of your dreams with Puget Construction and Landscape.

Understanding Outdoor Living Space Costs

You’ll notice that many of the projects below have a wide budget range. While some baseline costs are consistent for every project, there are far more costs that depend on your choices. For example, demolishing existing structures, hiring an expert, getting the highest quality appliances for your outdoor kitchen, or splurging on extras like sun shades and misters for summertime. So, these numbers are not set in stone. To get the most accurate estimate for your project, give us a call today to talk to one of our outdoor living space designers.

Patio or Deck

Budget Range: $2,000 to $30,000+

Factors Affecting Cost:

Landscaping

Budget Range: $3,000 to $10,000+

Factors Affecting Cost:

Outdoor Kitchen

Budget Range: $7,500 to $50,000+ with luxury outdoor kitchens ranging from $65,000 to $100,000+

Factors Affecting Cost:

Budget Tip: Placing your outdoor kitchen right by your house minimizes the cost of extending the electricity, gas, or water hookups.

Fire Pit or Fireplace

Budget Range: $500 to $10,000+

Factors Affecting Cost:

Outdoor Lighting

Budget Range: $500 to $5,000+

Factors Affecting Cost:

Sunrooms

Budget Range: $10,000 to $80,000+

Factors Affecting Cost:

What Influences the Cost of Outdoor Living Spaces?

As professionals in the construction and landscape industry, we design, build, and maintain indoor and outdoor living spaces. We have the knowledge and experience to help you set the right budget for your project. As we outlined above, several factors affect the cost of your dream outdoor living space. Below we dive deeper into the details of what influences the cost of outdoor living spaces:

1. Materials

This is first on the list because the choice of materials significantly impacts the overall cost. High-end materials like natural stone and hardwoods will come with a higher price tag compared to alternatives like concrete and composite decking. The great news is this part of the budget is in your hands! Our outdoor living space contractors can provide their advice on the pros and cons of various materials to help you make an informed decision.

2. Size and Complexity

Larger and more intricate designs will naturally require more materials and labor, leading to higher costs. Additionally, custom features will also add to the complexity and overall expense.

3. Site Conditions

Factors such as terrain, accessibility, and existing infrastructure can affect the cost of site preparation and installation. Sites with challenging terrain or limited access may require additional labor and equipment, driving up costs. Furthermore, costs can vary depending on whether you are renovating an existing space or starting with a blank canvas. For example, a dirt backyard at a newly built home will require more site preparation.

4. Labor Costs

Skilled labor is essential for creating quality outdoor living spaces. Labor costs vary depending on the level of expertise required for the project. For example, projects requiring plumbing and electricity will involve professionals in those areas.

Why Choose Puget Construction and Landscape for Your Outdoor Living Space?

By understanding all the factors that go into your outdoor living space and working with a trusted contractor like Puget Construction and Landscape, you can create a beautiful and functional outdoor oasis that fits your budget and exceeds your expectations.

landscape construction bellingham wa

At Puget Construction and Landscape, we understand that every outdoor living space is unique, and we're committed to bringing your vision to life within your budget. As experienced outdoor living space designers and contractors, we offer:

Are you ready to transform your outdoor space into a stunning retreat? Contact Puget Construction and Landscape today for a free consultation and quote. Our team of experts is here to guide you through the process and create the outdoor living space of your dreams. Let's bring your vision to life together!

Since the pandemic, outdoor living spaces have become an amenity high on the list of many homebuyers. It allows you to enjoy a slice of the outdoors within the comfort and safety of your home. Outdoor living spaces enable people to go outside without actually leaving their properties. As a result of this demand, homebuyers are willing to pay extra for properties that have functional and attractive outdoor living spaces. Thus, updating your deck, patio, or backyard can increase your property’s resell value.

But how much does an outdoor living space add to home value? This post will try to answer this question by looking at the different types of outdoor living spaces and what they bring to the table.

Common Updates to Outdoor Living Spaces

1. Adding Function to a Yard

Both the front and backyard make up the major outdoor living space of a home. Your yard should be more than a plot of land between your home and its property limits. A functional yard means a space outside your home that lets you do activities such as entertaining, playing, or exercising. It can even be a space for hobbies such as gardening or arts and crafts. Adding function to a yard can be as simple and inexpensive as setting up a garden table and chairs. It can also be as complex and costly as building a swimming pool, gym, or studio.

2. Landscaping

Landscaping involves creating a visibly pleasing home surrounding with the use of trees, plants, and other features such as fences and paths. Modifying the landscape of your home allows you to create areas with varying themes intended for different outdoor activities. A simple landscaping update like reseeding a patchy lawn or rehabilitating unhealthy plants can increase the home’s appeal to buyers.

3. Clean-up and Maintenance

Homes with outdoor living spaces that are clean and well-maintained benefit the health and safety of their inhabitants. These homes have high value because homebuyers are willing to pay a premium for properties that do not appear neglected and unsafe. Examples of outdoor clean-up include pressure-washing driveways, cleaning roofs and gutters, or decluttering the lawn. Maintenance includes repairing the exterior of the home such as filling cracks, replacing missing shingles, and repainting or restaining.

4. Building Additional Living Space

One of the major updates to a home can be building additional living space that provides extra space with outdoor access. This type of living space can be attached to the home, like a deck or porch, or separate, like a shed or cottage house. A deck or a porch can serve as an outdoor kitchen, living, or dining area. A shed or cottage, on the other hand, can be an office, studio, or store room. These additional structures add to a home’s usable floorplan, thus increasing its value. The additional living spaces you build can depend on your purpose, climate and weather patterns, and existing home structures.

5. Refreshing Doors and Windows

Doors and windows are also essential parts of a home’s outdoor living space. A well-designed and maintained door or window can make a big difference to a home’s perceived value. You can refresh doors by painting, replacing the tarnished or outdated handles, and redesigning the knockers, numbers, and other accessories. Similarly, you can refresh windows with a fresh coat of paint, and by replacing cracked or foggy glass and updating accessories. As you create your outdoor living space, you may even want to upgrade your doors and windows to better integrate your indoor and outdoor living spaces. Some popular options include folding or sliding glass door systems or a pass-through kitchen window connected to your outdoor kitchen or bar.

How Much Can Outdoor Living Spaces Add to Home Value?

The added value that the above updates can bring to your home will depend on the type of update and the quality of the work. It can also depend on the current demands of homebuyers within your area. For example, simply adding tables and chairs in your yard will not add as much resell value as building a patio, an in-demand outdoor space. Below are some examples to help you gauge the added home value of an updated outdoor living space:

Patio or Deck

A premium patio costing around $5,000 can increase the resell value of a home by up to 10%, earning a return on investment of at least 80%. Simply adding outdoor furniture cannot significantly increase a home’s resell value unless these pieces are custom-fitted or unique to the house and convey with purchase. Renovating an existing patio, on the other hand, can come at a lower cost of less than $2,000 while increasing a home’s value similar to building a patio from scratch. Thus, patio renovations and remodeling can result in higher ROIs of up to 500%.

Wooden decks tend to be more expensive and have a lower ROI percentage. Homeowners spend $16,000 to $20,000 on average and experience a 66% return. This number can vary drastically depending on the current lumber rates, as the lumber industry experienced a drop in supply and a spike in costs after the pandemic. Similar to patio renovation, if you can restore an existing deck, you have a much lower upfront cost and higher ROI.

do outdoor living spaces add value to your home 2

Landscaping

When it comes to landscaping, professional services can cost from $3,000 to $10,000 with annual upkeep of up to $3,000. The American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) estimates that at these costs, landscaping can add 15-20% to the home value. Some experts say professional landscaping can easily add $10,000 to a home’s listing price. Again, this added value depends on the type of landscaping and the quality of the work done. Homebuyers look for quality landscaping with irrigation and mature trees and plants as a value-add. This is one of the major selling points of buying an existing home instead of a new build, as new builds generally don’t have any landscaping.

Outdoor Kitchen

Outdoor kitchens are currently one of the on-trend and in-demand outdoor living spaces. You can build a functional and high-quality outdoor kitchen with an investment of around $20,000. Expect your home value to increase by more or less the same amount. Experts report an ROI for outdoor kitchens to be at 100-200%. Although higher returns are expected for homes located in areas with warmer climates, outdoor kitchens with cold-adaptive features are also profitable in colder areas. For example, outdoor kitchens in Washington should be in a covered space to provide shelter from the rain.

Additionally, it is crucial to consider that the must-haves for your outdoor kitchen might not be the same for every homebuyer. For instance, splurging on an outdoor pizza oven may be your dream, but a buyer who doesn’t see themselves using it won’t see the value.

Irrigation System

An effective irrigation system is critical for a beautiful landscape, optimized water use, and proper drainage. Homebuyers will pay more for a home that already has a system that takes care of the lawn and keeps plants green with minimal maintenance. You can spend up to $4,000 for a high-quality irrigation system with a potential ROI on the home resale value of 85-90%.

Fire Pit

A fire pit is an in-demand feature for your outdoor living space, especially here in the Pacific Northwest. As with all of the updates here, the value added depends on the design, materials, and quality of work. It also depends on the fuel of choice, such as incorporating propane or natural gas lines into the fire pit. On average, you can expect a 78% return on investment for a well-built fire pit.

Consult a Professional Outdoor Living Spaces Designer

In addition, at Puget Construction and Landscape, we offer comprehensive design-to-build services, ensuring that every aspect of your outdoor living space is meticulously planned and executed. Our team specializes in carefully crafting your project to meet your needs by honing in on your desires paired with our expertise. From the initial concept to the final touches, we work closely with you to bring your vision to life, ensuring that every detail is thoughtfully considered and flawlessly implemented. With our expertise and dedication to excellence, you can trust us to transform your outdoor living space into a haven that not only enhances your lifestyle but also adds significant value to your home.

Whether transforming your landscape, building additional living space, optimizing your irrigation, or remodeling your existing structure, you can count on us to provide the quality design and build that will meet your needs and achieve your financial goals. Boosting home value through outdoor living space updates can be a complex process. For an expert professional’s perspective, reach out to Puget Construction and Landscape today!

Many homeowners fail to use their properties to the fullest, with the yard often being the most underutilized area. If your outdoor space needs sprucing up or you want to expand your living space to the outdoors, this post is for you. As experienced landscape designers and contractors, we’re sharing everything you need to know about setting up a functional and beautiful outdoor living space.

What is an Outdoor Living Space for?

A well-designed space outside your home can be used for many of the activities that you would normally do inside. What you use an outdoor living space for depends on your interests and purposes. Below are some common examples of outdoor living spaces:

With the right design and quality construction, you can transform your front yard, backyard, patio, or deck into a comfortable extension of your home.

What are the Benefits of Outdoor Living Spaces?

Why extend your living space beyond the walls of your home? Everyone will have different benefits based on their space and how they use it, but the most common benefits include:

Expand the floor plan.

Setting up an outdoor living space extends a home’s living space. When you are creating a new outdoor space or even renovating an existing area, you have an opportunity to adjust your home space according to your needs. Maybe your kitchen doesn’t have enough counter space or seating for the dinner parties you love to host. Instead of dealing with those limitations, you can create your dream kitchen and entertaining area outside. Also, unlike regular home extensions like adding a room or indoor floor space, an outdoor living space adds additional space without as much cost or hassle. 

Increase the home value.

If there is even a slight possibility of reselling your home in the future, setting up an outdoor living space is always a great idea. The extra amenities that an outdoor living space adds guarantee an increase in home listing price, as well as being a highly marketable feature. On top of that, well-made and Pinterest-worthy outdoor living spaces add to the home’s curb appeal, further bumping up its resale value.

Better entertaining.

Entertaining can be one of the most common uses of a home’s living area. By extending your living space outside, you can accommodate more guests and enjoy the open air and sunlight (or the moonlit and starry sky, if at night). You can also organize more varied activities like outdoor games, garden tours, and if you have the resources, swimming, outdoor movies, or backyard camping. The options are only limited by your imagination.

Improve your health.

Being outdoors provides positive health effects even if you only go as far as outside your front door. Getting outside lets your body absorb sunlight necessary for making Vitamin D, an essential nutrient for immunity and bone health. Natural sights and sounds like flowing water or rustling leaves let your senses take a break from electronic devices, allowing you to relax and unwind from daily life stresses. Outdoor air also has an invigorating and refreshing ability that can lighten your mood. 

how to set up an outdoor living space

How to Set Up an Outdoor Living Space

Can’t wait to set up your very own outdoor living space? Below is our step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Think of your needs.

First ask, what do you want your space to be? Write down everything you need to have in your outdoor space. Do you need an area to cook, dine, entertain, play, etc.? Make a list, narrow it down, and put your top priority first on the list. You can further decide by looking up design ideas and inspirations on social media and other online resources.

Step 2: Consider your space.

Any outdoor living space you choose to set up must keep in line with the structure and other characteristics of your current space. You don’t want to set up a porch that will clash with your home design or an outdoor fireplace that is unsafe to use with your building. Weather and climate conditions in your area also affect the type and features of any outdoor space you want to create.

Step 3: Draft a layout for your Outdoor Living Space

Like indoor spaces, outdoor living spaces must also follow a logical and functional flow for ease of use. Your kitchen, for example, makes more sense to be located near the dining area than near the bedroom. Thus, plan your outdoor kitchen following a similar concept. Create a layout that follows the natural flow of activities that you plan to do in your outdoor living space. Furthermore, you can also plan a layout that maximizes the space, dividing it into levels or “rooms” for varied and separate activities. You can create a kid-friendly play area separate from the firepit lounge area, for example.

Step 4: Identify the hardscape and landscape.

The hardscape is any man-made features that you will build or add to your outdoor living space. The landscape consists of plants, trees, and other vegetation. The hardscape and landscape must be in harmony in terms of function and aesthetics. Make sure to balance form and function, having elements that are both practical and beautiful. 

Step 5: Plan for the utilities.

Many outdoor living space plans forget to implement the water, lighting, and heating or cooling for the area. These utilities are especially important for outdoor kitchens, lounging, or dining areas. Landscaping your garden may also require you to consider an irrigation and sprinkler system. A greenhouse or outdoor office also requires you to plan for the water, light, and heating for it. How you set up these utilities can make or break your space. A poorly heated backyard office or an outdoor kitchen with no running water makes your outdoor living space uncomfortable and less functional.

Step 6: Create a budget.

A budget gives you insight into your capabilities in realizing the outdoor living space you want. Having a budget guides you in deciding which features to build, items to buy, materials to use, and even the timeline of your project. This step is also a great way to prioritize and make better decisions for the success of your project. If you are setting up an outdoor living space to increase your home’s resale value, a budget helps you keep within your investment limits, thus optimizing your return on investment.

Step 7: Bring in a professional.

Expert advice saves you from headaches, project delays, unsafe conditions, and dollars worth of wrong materials, renovations, and building regulatory penalties. It’s okay to opt out of professional designers, architects, or landscape artists, but make sure to hire a licensed and insured outdoor living space contractor. Go for contractors that have experience with the type of project you are planning, can provide detailed plans for materials and timeline, and offer warranties in their contract. Work with professionals with whom you can work closely and with ease from the project’s conception to its completion.

Step 8: Maintain and update.

Include the maintenance and upkeep of your outdoor living space in your plans. After completion, make sure to implement any steps to clean and protect the space from the elements. You can research and discuss these steps with landscape designers and other professionals for the best results. 

Puget Construction and Landscape: Here to Share our Outdoor Living Space Expertise

Setting up an outdoor living space can be a complicated process. Success is possible and guaranteed with thorough planning and expert support. For experienced experts, look no further than Puget Construction and Landscape. We are passionate professionals who offer varied services for people dreaming of that perfect outdoor space. You can trust us with projects, from landscaping to outdoor kitchens, from building from scratch to renovating existing structures, and even with maintaining your spaces.

Do not let your yard space go to waste. You can transform it into the outdoor living space of your dreams. Start by consulting with our expert outdoor living space designers today!

Your backyard is more than just a patch of grass behind your home—it's your personal oasis, a space where you can relax, entertain, and connect with nature. But turning your outdoor area into a dream retreat requires careful planning and thoughtful design. In this guide, we'll walk you through the essential steps to creating the backyard of your dreams, from dreaming and brainstorming to executing your vision in logical stages.

dream big
Planning is critical to the success of your dream outdoor living space.

Dream Big

Before diving into the nitty-gritty details, take some time to envision your ideal outdoor space. What do you want to use the yard for? Is it a place for hosting barbecues and pool parties, or do you envision a tranquil retreat for lounging and reading? Consider your preferences, lifestyle, and budget as you brainstorm ideas for your backyard makeover.

Assess Your Property

Take a stroll around your yard and take note of its existing features and potential challenges. Identify elements you want to keep, such as mature trees or a charming garden, and what needs to go, like a crumbling deck or overgrown shrubs. Consider factors like sunlight exposure, drainage, and local regulations as you evaluate your outdoor space.

Know the Rules

Before breaking ground on any significant projects, familiarize yourself with your city's zoning regulations and any homeowner's association guidelines that may apply. From fence heights to permit requirements, understanding the rules upfront can save you headaches—and potential fines—down the line.

Create a Master Plan

Once you have a clear vision of your outdoor space, it's time to put pen to paper and create a master plan. Sketch out the layout of your yard, including key features like patios, pathways, and landscaping elements. Pay attention to the flow between different areas and how each space connects to the next.

Focus on Functionality

A well-designed outdoor space should look beautiful and function seamlessly with your daily life. Consider how you move through your yard, from the kitchen window to the back gate, and ensure that your design accommodates these traffic patterns and practical needs.

Fine-Tune the Details

With your master plan in place, it's time to zoom in on the details and refine each area of your outdoor space. Add privacy screens, adjust seating arrangements, and incorporate special touches like arbors or water features to enhance the ambiance and functionality of your backyard.

Think Long-Term

Remember to plan for the future as you bring your outdoor vision to life. Even if you can't tackle every project at once, lay the groundwork for future improvements, such as installing gas lines for future outdoor kitchens or designing flexible spaces that can evolve with your changing needs.

Conclusion

Planning your outdoor space is an exciting opportunity to create a backyard retreat that reflects your personality and lifestyle. You can transform your yard into a true outdoor sanctuary by taking a holistic approach to design, considering both big-picture goals and small-scale details. So grab your sketchbook, roll up your sleeves, and prepare to bring your backyard dreams to life!

Outdoor living spaces aren't just a summer luxury; they're an extension of your home's indoor comfort, designed to be enjoyed year-round. With a few strategic upgrades, you can transform your yard, patio, balcony, or porch into a year-round sanctuary. Here are seven expert-approved ways to enhance your outdoor space and make it the ultimate destination for relaxation and entertainment.

family celebrating a birthday in their outdoor living space
Celebrate with the ones you love with cost outdoor lighting.

Enhance Lighting

Adding lighting to your outdoor space increases its style quotient and extends its functionality. We recommend simple additions like candles and string lights to create a cozy ambiance that encourages outdoor gatherings. Additionally, consider installing deck lighting for added sophistication and safety, ensuring your outdoor space is always inviting.

friend gather around outdoor firepit
Enjoy the convenience of having a private fire pit in your outdoor living space.

Incorporate Fire Features In Your Outdoor LIving Space

A fire pit or outdoor fireplace adds warmth and charm to any outdoor setting. Making it a perfect focal point for year-round enjoyment. We suggest exploring various options. From portable fire pits to built-in fireplaces, find the right fit for your space and budget. Whether you prefer the crackle of wood or the convenience of gas, a fire feature creates a cozy atmosphere that's perfect for chilly evenings.

upgrade your deck
Create space to enjoy the outdoors with an upgraded deck space.

Upgrade Your Deck

Investing in a high-quality deck enhances your outdoor space's aesthetics and improves its usability throughout the year. Composite decking materials offer durability, low maintenance, and resistance to fading and mold, making them ideal for year-round outdoor living. With heat-mitigating technology to keep boards cool in the sun, composite decks seamlessly blend indoor comfort with outdoor beauty, creating a space you'll love to use in every season.

welcoming outdoor rug
Create an inviting space with a fresh outdoor rug

Add an Outdoor Rug

A simple outdoor rug can instantly transform your outdoor living space into a more inviting and comfortable space. Not only does it provide insulation against heat loss. It also reduces direct sun exposure, making your outdoor area more enjoyable during warmer months. Experiment with different colors and patterns to customize your outdoor decor and create a welcoming atmosphere for guests.

inviting outdoor furniture
Elevate your backyard with a comfortable gathering space for friends and family.

Invest in Weatherproof Furniture

Choose weatherproof furniture that can withstand the elements while providing comfort and style in your outdoor living space. All-weather materials like wicker and aluminum are perfect for outdoor use, especially when paired with plush cushions and blankets for added coziness. Don't forget to incorporate storage solutions to protect your furniture during inclement weather, ensuring it stays in top condition for years.

create privacy in your backyard
Create a private spot using pergolas and greenery.

Create Privacy

Enhance your outdoor space with shade and privacy features, such as umbrellas, pergolas, or natural greenery. Large umbrellas provide sun protection and privacy, while hedges or vertical gardens create a natural barrier against prying eyes. Add bamboo shoots or lattice vines for elegance and seclusion, making your outdoor space feel like a private retreat.

elegant outdoor kitchen
Cook for friends in an elegant outdoor kitchen.

Build an Outdoor Kitchen

Take your outdoor entertaining to the next level with a fully-equipped outdoor kitchen. From grilling stations to pizza ovens, outdoor kitchens offer endless possibilities for culinary creativity and social gatherings. With the growing trend of outdoor living. Homeowners are investing more in their outdoor kitchens, creating functional spaces that rival their indoor counterparts. Complete your outdoor dining experience with vibrant decor and comfortable seating, making every meal memorable.

Incorporating these expert tips into your outdoor living space allows you to create a versatile and inviting oasis perfect for year-round enjoyment. Whether hosting a summer barbecue or cozying up by the fire in winter, your outdoor space will become the ultimate destination for relaxation and entertainment, no matter the season.

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