Bold Colors and Patterns
We’ve seen a shift away from all-neutral-everything in interiors for a few years now, and designers agree that we can expect to see the same in outdoor living spaces in 2024. Think bright, bold colors and playful patterns.
“Your outdoor setup is a low-stakes place to play with pattern—try it by mixing florals, stripes, and bold hues for that perfectly throw-together look,” says Heather Goerzen, design director at Havenly.
Extending Indoor Spaces
Across the board, nearly all of the design experts we spoke to agreed that they expect the biggest trend of 2024 will be seamlessly blending indoor and outdoor spaces—essentially, making the patio or porch feel like a natural extension of the home’s interior. This involves making design choices like matching the flooring inside the house to the porch or patio flooring materials, choosing matching furniture and decor, sticking to the same color palette, and more.
Outdoor Kitchens
Along similar lines, designers say we can expect to see outdoor kitchens continue to be popular in the New Year. As homeowners increasingly look to spend time at home following the recent travel boom, Lucy Small, founder of home design and supply company State & Season based in North Georgia; says that she expects to see outdoor kitchens expand with more luxurious features. Think: built-in fireplaces, custom pizza ovens, expansive counter space, smokers, wine refrigerators, and more.
Comfortable Seating Areas
Goodbye, uncomfortable plastic patio furniture—you’re not welcome in 2024! Comfortable and functional outdoor seating that is made to last is where it’s at this year. This is a trend we’ve seen for a couple of years now, but designers don’t expect it to go anywhere anytime soon.
Plush outdoor couches, chairs, and outdoor sectionals are increasing in popularity year after year thanks to durable performance fabrics that are designed to withstand the elements.
Organic Materials and Textures
Natural materials and textures like rattan, jute, stone, terracotta, and wood are certainly nothing new in both interior and exterior design, but Goerzen says they’re not going anywhere this year.
Brick Pavers
Brick pavers are truly timeless, but they’ve come back into style in a major way over the past few years. Not only are they incredibly versatile and customizable, but they provide a rustic, slightly lived-in aesthetic that works in any outdoor setup, regardless of the architecture or style of your home, Goerzen says. Plus, they can be laid in lots of different unique patterns, from herringbone to basketweave to stacked and everything in between.
Small Decks and Patios
Low on outdoor space? That’s not stopping homeowners in 2024. Designers agree people are increasingly looking to maximize their outdoor living areas, regardless of size. This means that small decks and patios designed with functionality in mind are set to be trending this year more than ever.
Julie Nobles, a communications representative from home renovation and design platform Houzz, shares that the platform has seen an increasing interest in design solutions for small outdoor spaces.
Enclosed or Partially-Covered Porches
Lastly, enclosed or partially-covered porches that can be closed in are gaining popularity as multi-season spaces, says Smith. For homeowners that experience frequent inclement weather, the additional protection from the elements can dramatically extend how often the space is used. Glass panels, screened-in options, or even a roof with curtains that can be drawn are a few popular options when it comes to enclosing a porch or patio.