We don’t often think about backyard décor and landscaping when we consider the latest design trends. But just like interior design and clothing styles, outdoor décor styles change year-after-year. So, if it has been a while since you have changed your backyard or patio space, now could be the perfect time to include up-and-coming spring trends.
While some designs are totally timeless, there are plenty of décor elements that can be easily incorporated to make it look modern and trendy. And with the winter weather (hopefully) winding down and spring just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to check out new trends and designs.
Here are some of the latest backyard furniture, landscape, and design styles that you’ll be seeing everywhere this year.
1. Eco-Friendly Designs
Sustainability is an important feature to many people. Many of us are doing what we can to be a little more green by recycling more, buying eco-friendly furniture pieces, or using energy-efficient appliances throughout our home.
But eco-conscious design is no longer limited to clothes and furniture – your backyard can be greener, too.
We are seeing a lot of backyard furniture and landscape designs shifting to use more sustainable materials. Rather than using synthetic materials like plastic, which are terrible for the environment, consider purchasing items made of natural wood and wicker.
This also extends to landscaping design elements.
Some companies offer recycled materials like cement or crushed stones to be used for pavers, garden beds, and stepping stones. You can incorporate eco-friendly design in small ways, too, with elements like solar-powered lighting fixtures or sustainable plants like bamboo.
2. Functional Patio Furniture
As many of us are spending far more time at home since the pandemic hit in 2024, the backyard and patio space has become a true extension of the house. It can be a great place to gather with the family to eat dinner, lounge in the sun, or even get some work done.
Another trend is using functional and comfortable patio furniture that creates an inviting and usable space. Soft well-cushioned couches and chairs are preferable to hard materials like metal chairs or wooden benches. Expect to see backyard décor that looks similar to outdoor living rooms with lots of comfortable surfaces and ergonomic seating designs.
Now, it is important to remember to use materials that are compatible with your space. If you get a lot of rain or direct sunlight, your patio cushions need to be made of weather-proof fabrics.
Do it the right way and consult a patio furniture buying guide by Family Leisure to see which types of cushions and furniture materials are best for your needs, location, and budget.
3. Functional Garden Spaces
It’s kind of silly to say that gardens are “trending”. They never have (and likely never will) go out of style. However, incorporating more greenery and impressive foliage even in small outdoor spaces will likely be a top trend for the spring.
Vertical gardens are expected to be common, especially in smaller backyards or patios. If you have a small balcony, consider getting a stackable garden bed or installing trellises to support vine-type plants.
Gardens are also becoming more functional – rather than just for decoration. Cultivating edible gardens is a popular trend. When the spring weather rolls around, it’s a great time to try your hand at planting herbs or vegetables.
Don’t have a green thumb?
No worries – there are plenty of low maintenance plants that thrive in most environments. Many herbs like peppermint, thyme, and chives will grow quickly and easily so you always have fresh ones to throw into a salad or cocktail for a burst of flavor.
4. Stone and Concrete Accent Pieces
Upcoming spring is all about incorporating more modern design elements. Cooler toned materials like stone and cement are perfect for giving your backyard a cutting-edge design without needing a total revamp.
One great way to incorporate this trend is to lay down square stone or cement pavers for walkways around the perimeter of your yard. Small rounded stones can be used in place of mulch for garden beds as well.
5. Water Features as Center Design Focal Points
Your backyard is a perfect place to escape and relax out in nature. One of the easiest ways to create a more tranquil environment is with water features. The latest trend is to make them the focal point of backyard design.
Garden fountains (especially fountain walls) are a major trend for spring. If you already have a pool in your backyard, consider adding in fountains to flow in for a modern, “spa-like” design.
If you don’t have space (or budget) to install a pool or fountain in your yard, smaller water elements are great ways to get on the trend. Consider digging small ponds into your garden space or adding a few little garden fountains around the patio. This can help to create a calming atmosphere.
6. Warm, Earthy Hues for Décor Accessories
Adding in subtle elements with the latest color trends is a great way to add a modern look to your backyard without totally remodeling it. Designers are predicting that 2024 is all about warm earth tones with subtle pops of bright color.
Think taupe, sage green, cool blues, terra cotta, and moss, along with accents of burnt orange and rusty red. Soft neutrals blend in perfectly with natural wood and grey stone, but you can shake things up with colorful patterns on pillows or outdoor rugs to give the place a bit of pizazz.
Conclusion
Spring is just around the corner and before you know it, we will be spending long summer days and nights out in the backyard. Be sure to get ahead of the up and coming trends now so you have a beautiful, impressive patio, yard, or balcony to relax and unwind in once the warmer weather arrives.
Which of these latest trends will you be trying out with your outdoor and backyard décor?
