Summertime, and the living is . . . outdoors!
When you live in the Western North Carolina mountains, it’s easy to want to spend most of your time outside – especially during our pleasant summer evenings. Whether you love to host friends for a festive summer barbecue, or enjoy relaxing in the peaceful sanctuary of your own backyard, it’s great to tailor your outdoor living spaces to meet your needs. And, did you know that spending more time outdoors will benefit your mood and your health — studies show that spending time outside can assist with good memory, ward off depression, and maintain a lower blood pressure. It’s also a perfect way to enjoy the fresh mountain air.
When considering an addition to your outdoor living space, it’s important to keep in mind some key factors, just as you would for an addition inside your home:
- Budget
- Size of space
- Location
- Materials
- How often you’ll use it
- Type and availability of fuel, like gas or electric
- Maintenance
- Climate
- Lighting
The best news – there are many ways to bring the indoors, outside. Read on to see what might be a good fit for you and your lifestyle!
Porch Additions and Decks
There’s no more natural way to expand your living space and to enjoy the natural beauty of your own backyard, than through a porch addition or deck. This is a popular choice with homeowners, regardless of home style, and depending on your needs, it can even be quite budget-friendly.
There are many materials that can be used, and the possibilities are endless . . . see the photo below, of a custom deck crafted by Semper Fi Custom Remodeling that included a slide for the owner’s young grandchildren. According to Remodeling Magazine, a 16′ x 20′ wood deck with stairs and railings can expect a return of investment of about 75%. Especially in an area with a mild climate like the greater Asheville area, outdoor living spaces can be enjoyed nearly year-round, and provide increased value to your home for years to come.
Kitchens
What’s cooking this summer? Are you an avid grill master or smoker? Do you believe in the power of cooking with an open flame – or just love spending time al fresco? An outdoor kitchen might be for you! You’re not alone – three in four adults in the United States own a grill or smoker, according to the most recent report from the Hearth, Patio, & Barbecue Association (HPBA).
The cost of building an outdoor kitchen, much like indoor kitchen renovation, varies depending on the materials and appliances you choose. An outdoor kitchen could be a simple set up with a grill and seating, or you may be interested in any number of equipment, from grills, stove burners, pizza ovens, refrigerators, wine storage, and more. Whatever you choose, it’s important to only select appliances designed for outdoor use. Possible shelters and durability should be top of mind, to help your appliances whether the element year-round.
Finally, how does it stack up as far as investments go? Well, remodeling.net cites around a 55% return on investment (ROI) on an outdoor patio space that includes a kitchen area. Though a greater investment than a simple deck, we like to say that you should leave in your own dream home, not someone else’s dream home. Depending on your needs and budget, an outdoor kitchen can add so much to your enjoyment and entertaining capabilities at home.
