The trend continues where homeowners are transforming ordinary backyards into extraordinary outdoor living spaces. With 83% of households now featuring some form of outdoor retreat, these areas are becoming essential extensions of the home. From cable railing systems to architectural panels, today’s designs emphasize form and functionality.
A recent National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP) survey notes that some of the most popular outdoor trends include designing spaces that do double duty – for example, building a vertical garden that also serves as a privacy fence – incorporating smart technology such as programmable lighting and wireless sound systems, and utilizing greenery and other natural elements throughout a space to create a connection with nature.
Follow along and we highlight some of our top design tips for creating a stylish, long-lasting outdoor retreat.
Tip 1: Connect Indoors and Outdoors Seamlessly.
One of the most important outdoor design strategies is creating indoor-outdoor living spaces that flow together. Large sliding glass doors, stacked door systems, and expansive windows create natural transitions that make homes feel bigger and brighter.
For luxury home design, this approach expands square footage while reinforcing wellness by keeping residents visually connected to nature. Using modern deck railings like CableRail® stainless steel infill or DesignRail® aluminum railing systems ensures clean lines and open views that won’t obstruct gardens, city skylines, or mountain vistas. These architectural railings deliver safety and code compliance while still highlighting the beauty of the outdoors.
Tip 2: Define Privacy and Comfort with Style.
To truly feel like a retreat, outdoor spaces need both structure and comfort. That often means creating privacy walls that double as architectural accents, especially if neighboring homes are in close proximity to each other. Homeowners are increasingly mixing materials such as wood, powder-coated aluminum, and stone to achieve a contemporary design with personality.
A standout new option is the Feeney x Kerrie Kelly LaserCut™ Collection, designed to bring both privacy and artistry to indoor and outdoor living spaces. These designer railing panels feature bold, modern patterns that act as both partitions and statement pieces, perfect for homeowners looking to blend privacy and personality.
For a softer, greener solution, Feeney Trellises make it easy to incorporate climbing plants into outdoor spaces. Available in different variations, these trellises add natural beauty while also serving as privacy screens or living walls. They’re engineered from recycled aluminum and stainless steel for a low-maintenance, weather-resistant design that lasts season after season.
Tip 3: Elevate Outdoor Living with Vertical Sapce.
Thinking beyond the ground level, rooftops and elevated decks offer incredible opportunities for outdoor retreats. Flat or partially flat roofs can be converted into rooftop decks that deliver panoramic views, while wraparound porches and perimeter decks create inviting, shaded extensions of the home.
For safety and long-term durability, engineered-to-last railing hardware, corrosion-resistant stainless steel, and weather-resistant design features are essential. Adding Feeney Awning Kits offer stylish shade and year-round comfort. It’s important to make sure the rooftop area is still able to shed water properly and that structures are anchored to the home’s flashing. In addition, keep in mind that access to the underlying roof is necessary for maintenance.
As outdoor spaces make the transition from basic backyards and decks to cozy, inviting retreats, the design possibilities are truly endless. In addition to the suggestions above, cable rail can be paired with glass infill to extend views, or with panels constructed of stainless steel wire mesh or laser cut aluminum to add visual interest.
For more design inspiration and custom railing solutions for your next architectural project, visit www.feeneyinc.com.
