Grand Rapids-based Deckorators, a brand of UFP Industries Inc. also in Grand Rapids, released its annual Outdoor Living Report, featuring insights and commentary from expert contractors on the top outdoor design trends for 2024.
Deckorators provides decking, railing, and outdoor accessory products. The 2024 report, developed based on consultations with Deckorators’ contractor network, focuses on what homeowners have been requesting most for their outdoor spaces, including functional design, regional color trends, and more.
“Our experts are seeing homeowners prioritize a balance of form and function,” says Michelle Hendricks, category marketing manager for Deckorators. “It’s all about creating a flexible-use space full of elements that enhance the enjoyment of the outdoor experience. Our mission at Deckorators is to push the boundaries of what’s possible in outdoor living spaces, and help homeowners bring their ideas to life.”
Trend highlights from the 2024 Outdoor Living Report include:
- Functional design: Homeowners are looking to utilize their outdoor spaces for multiple purposes, and in all kinds of weather, from season to season. Flexible-use zones throughout the deck are becoming a design standard, revealing a trend toward maximizing utility and prioritizing spatial flow.
- Cocktail rails: Signifying a shift away from the structured dining table, the recent spike in bar rail additions frees up space on the deck and creates additional opportunities for socializing.
- Monochrome moment: Homeowners’ preferences for deck colors are becoming more minimalistic, opening up more opportunities for pops of color and texture elsewhere that can be easily updated with changing trends.
- Privacy walls and shade structures: These features make the outdoor experience more comfortable, offering seclusion from neighbors and protection from the elements. Privacy walls commonly serve dual purpose, incorporating entertainment centers and greenery.
- Heaters and fire features: Homeowners are challenging the seasonality of their outdoor spaces with heated elements, whether it be the sleek, discreet warmth of outdoor heaters or the eye-catching ambience of a central fireplace.
- Dock Upgrades: Waterfront spaces are evolving to include upgraded elements that encourage gathering and connection.
- Outdoor kitchens: Homeowners are treating the outdoor kitchen as a place for both cooking and camaraderie, showing increased interest in upgrades such as extended counter space and built-in appliances.
- Designer/homeowner collaboration: Overall, homeowners are showing more interest in being involved in the outdoor design process, from start to finish.
The annual Outdoor Living Report is part of Deckorators’ ongoing efforts to remain at the forefront of the evolving outdoor industry while continuing to support its network of consumers and contractors.
