Category Archives: Outdoor Design Ideas

Centuries ago, wicker was the primary material used to craft various items in ancient Egypt and China. But it wasn’t until the 1800s that woven-rattan became a mainstay in the United States. The Victorian motif that wicker often personifies has made it a stylish addition to both indoor and outdoor rooms.

Wicker is timeless and can be mixed with many different materials, finishes and colors. It’s also very durable although it does need to be sheltered from natural outdoor elements. These days, many furniture manufacturers are giving wicker a more diverse, modern twist which makes it even more appealing to the average consumer. It’s also a great furniture choice no matter what outdoor seating trends are hot right now.

If you need some wicker inspiration, take a look at these modern twists on an old time favorite!

Outdoor Environments wants to know: Do you own wicker furniture? Leave a comment below!

Images and information from Elle Decor

Analysts have predicted that by 2015, U.S. consumers will spend more than $4.4 billion on outdoor furniture. More than half of that will be spent on dining sets alone. Across the U.S., families everywhere have long been married to the idea of backyard barbecues and picnics. This has led to an up-tick in the number of outdoor kitchens and plenty of seating for everyone to relax and enjoy the outdoors. And while traditional love seats and side chairs are dominant, sectional sofas especially for the outdoors are becoming a trend. It also appears that consumers place more emphasis on ample seating, often forgoing more formal dining tables and chairs.

This year, seating is taking on a bright face. As far as color trends go, orange is in. Shades of mandarin, tangerine and carrot are blended with rusty beiges and browns to create the most comfortable and appealing outdoor living space full of earth tones. And don’t forget to toss in a few bright pillows!

Outdoor Environments can help you to achieve this perfect outdoor living atmosphere with plenty of plush and stylish seating for your spring and summer entertaining. Call us at 913-897-2706 for more information about our services around Kansas City and Overland Park.

Information from SacBee

Image from Houzz

Why go through the trouble of investing in a second property or vacation home when you can create your very own patio retreat in your backyard? And have you seen gas prices lately? It’s just another reason for you to invest in a backyard renovation now so that you won’t have to worry about always leaving home to have a good time. Backyard patios can be enhanced with:

• Swimming pools
• Outdoor kitchens
• Landscaping, natural stone and masonry features
• Patio furniture

Speaking of patio furniture, manufacturers are enhancing features to make outdoor relaxing more comfortable. This includes swivels, sofas, love seats and gliding chairs with deeper seats and extra-oversized lounge chairs that encourage curling up barefoot.

A well-designed patio serves as an extensive of the home’s interior. It’s also perfect for this time of year when you may not want to stay indoors, but you also don’t want to leave home. You can have a backyard retreat that feels like an escape without ever leaving home!

Outdoor Environments in Kansas City can help you to achieve the perfect patio. Call us at 913-897-2706 to discuss your outdoor living options today!

Patio shown was designed by Outdoor Environments

It’s still National Deck Safety Month!  And it’s a popular time of year for decks. Since home improvements seem to peak during the spring, it’s important to note that deck construction and upgrades are the third most popular home remodeling project behind kitchen and bath remodels. And what are consumer looking for in upgraded decks this year? They want more deck add-ons, particularly outdoor lighting.

Consumers are interested in adding value. They don’t necessarily have to have the best or biggest deck on the block. They want features that will enhance their outdoor living experience while adding beauty and safety. That’s why outdoor lighting is such a hot commodity.

The types of lighting that consumers can choose from include:

• Tiny, recessed LEDs for deck edges
• LED strips for running underneath deck railing
• Light with remote controlled dimming
• Energy-efficient lighting that incorporates some or all of the above

All of these lighting options help to create a safer outdoor living environment if you plan to use your deck after the sun goes down. If your deck is in need of remodeling and outdoor lighting, call Outdoor Environments in Overland Park/Kansas City at 913-897-2706.

Information from KPVI

Image from Houzz

You might remember us talking recently about how the addition of a deck can help you to sell your home. And since everyone knows that location is the primary factor in the world of real estate, it’s time to consider where your deck will be located. Have you considered a deck in your front yard? Reliable Remodeler thinks it’s worth a try!

A deck in the front yard is welcoming and neighborly–a place to enjoy mimosas on a Sunday morning or host happy hour on a Friday evening. It adds instant curb appeal with an attribute of friendliness. In the backyard, a deck can extend your living quarters, adding virtual square footage and helping any property show well during an open house.

Even if you still insist on a backyard or even a side deck, you won’t be disappointed! Outdoor Environments is your premiere source for decks throughout Overland Park and Kansas City. Give us a call at 913-897-2706 to discuss your outdoor living options today!

Deck shown is by Outdoor Environments

Deck railings are a necessary feature that not only keeps your outdoor living area safe, it adds beauty and style. But once a deck is installed, many homeowners forgo the railing. Instead, railings seem more popular with consumers who have already invested in decks and are looking for ways to add value to it.

Since it’s Deck Safety Month, we want you to know that railings keep everyone on your deck foundation safe by preventing slips, falls and other dangerous mishaps. Outdoor furniture, grills and other equipment are also kept in place with a railing. Best of all, consumers on a tighter budget can usually expect railings to cost significantly less than their initial deck construction.

In particular, composite railings are gaining more popularity because they are so strong and typically don’t require additional metal reinforcements. Using multi-layer technology, many composite decks are so thick and stiff that they can meet building code with no other materials for reinforcement. Composite decks and railings are extremely durable but still offer the convenience of low-maintenance.

For decks and railings in the Kansas City area, call Outdoor Environments at 913-897-2706 today!

Information from LVRJ

Deck and railing shown are by Outdoor Environments

The peak season for your deck will be in full force in just a few weeks, if it’s not already. Why not make some deck upgrades that’ll get it ready for the peak season?

1. First and foremost, your deck should be prepped, cleaned, washed, repaired and/or stained if necessary. Many times, just refreshing a deck is enough to make it look brand new again.
2. Just because your deck takes up a lot of yard space doesn’t mean your gardening dreams are out the window. Use large containers and planters to grow flowers and even vegetables right on your deck!
3. Need a major deck change? How about adding a gazebo, pergola or shade arbor?
4. Gates and railings can be multipurpose. Not only can you sit planters and bird feeders on top of some gates and railings, but many of them also come with decorative and architectural features that make your deck even more beautiful.

For all your deck remodeling and upgrading needs in Kansas City and Overland Park, contact Outdoor Environments at 913-897-2706.

Information and image from BHG

There are many serious considerations to ponder when implementing a new outdoor design at home, particularly during the planning phase. To get a better idea about what outdoor living should be, we’ve summarized the Five Pillars of Outdoor Living Design, courtesy of Residential Design + Build.

Build for the ages

An authentic outdoor living space will never adhere to the cookie-cutter layout that many neighborhoods and subdivisions have succumbed to in recent years. The mass construction of these areas is often done with sub-par materials that will not stand the test of time. The worst part is when those materials look just as mediocre as they are. Are the materials durable and long-lasting? Will the project look as relevant in the future as it does today?

Invent within the rules

Look to other long-standing projects to see what kinds of elements and features were incorporated. You’ll find that a lot of the same rules and concepts apply to almost every outdoor living space you study. Is the space consistent and proportioned? Is it inviting? Can you see evidence of quality and attention to detail?

Respect, complement nature

Now commonly referred to as sustainable design, a good outdoor living space does little to disrupt its surrounding landscape. Making an outdoor design blend in the natural landscape can benefit a project both financially and visually. Is the design environmentally responsible? Do the man-made elements and colors blend well with the existing landscape?

Detail for authenticity

Authenticity and consistency are both key in creating an outdoor oasis that works. Using premium materials for some features and below-standard materials for others will show an overall less than perfect job. Has every detail of the project been maximized?

Incorporate convenience

Outdoor spaces must easily facilitate the lifestyle of those who will be in that space often. Subsequently, these areas must be built for future expansion. Such elements may include LED lighting, water features, wireless networking, sound systems and more. Does the project fit in with the consumer’s lifestyle? Does it allow for future development?

Get started with your outdoor oasis by calling Outdoor Environments at 913-897-2706 today. We specialize in decks, patios, gazebos, pergolas, shade arbors, porches, fireplaces/fire pits and more!

Image from Elle Decor’s Look Book

It’s important to know that when it comes to deck design and layout, the conventional rectangle shape is a thing of the past. Residential Design + Build reports that decks are not a “one size fits all” deal.

According to research,

… “homeowners can take up to two years from the time they think about their deck until the time they actually pull the trigger on a project. Consumers will do everything from Internet research, buying books about design, and visiting showrooms.

Deck design can begin with a simple rectangle, and by cutting back each corner at a 45-degree angle the deck begins to take on character. Add other shapes, spaces, color and levels and it becomes completely unrecognizable as what decks once were. The important step today, though, is making all these variables work together.”

It’s all about customization and making the deck work for the homeowner and their specific needs. Surprisingly, some consumers don’t want a barbecue area or an outdoor kitchen on their deck at all.

Experts say that those considering a deck should consider three main components:

1. How it looks
2. How it functions
3. How much it costs

Also, homeowners seem to be very interested in adding other features to their decks. These features include:

• Lighting for stairs, post cap lights and low-wattage lighting
• Accenting decks with pergolas or gazebos to add shading
• Strategic placement of railings to avoid blocked views but still adhere to building codes

Outdoor Environments builds and remodels decks in the Overland Park and Kansas City areas. Call us at 913-897-2706 to discuss your deck options today!

Image from RDB

Trendy outdoor furniture pieces are the key to bringing your deck or patio to life. No matter what your budget, style or preference, there’s an outdoor furniture option out there for you. Have you considered these types?

If you want traditional:

Wicker – There are typically two types of wicker outdoor furniture: regular and all-weather. Regular wicker can only be used in covered outdoor areas. All-weather wicker, on the other hand, will not get damaged when exposed to mild weather conditions.

If you want sophistication:

Wrought iron – Though it is very heavy and difficult to move around, wrought iron outdoor furniture is ideal for windy areas. Adding bright cushions is a necessity since the finish typically only comes in black, green or white.

If you like the natural look:

Wood – The best quality wood patio furniture is made from center-cut heartwood lumber with consistent wood grain. It should also have zinc-plated or stainless steel screws that can be tightened in case they ever loosen.

If you want convenience:

Resin – Just another name for plastic, resin outdoor furniture is cheap, durable, easy to maintain and move around. Resin furniture is very light weight, so it’s not recommended for windy climates. One other drawback is that all resin furniture virtually looks alike.

If you want durability:

Metal – One of the most popular materials for outdoor furniture, metal is extremely strong while achieving many different looks and styles.

Do you need help creating your outdoor living area? Call Outdoor Environments at 913-897-2706 today.

Information from BHG

Area shown is by Outdoor Environments