Top 5 Ideas to Maximize Your Outdoor Living Space in Maryland

Valley Deck & Patio designs and builds custom patios, decks and landscapes in Severna Park, Ellicott City, Towson, Eldersburg, and other areas throughout Maryland. Read the Top 5 tips for getting the most from your patio, deck, and backyard space in Maryland.

Bring the Kitchen Outside

Did someone say outdoor kitchen? Adding an outdoor kitchen elevates not only your cooking experience, but the overall look of your outdoor space. At parties most of the time people end up hanging in the kitchen, right? Make the kitchen the place to be…. outside! Unlike a portable grill, a fully equipped outdoor kitchen offers the all-in-one convenience of a barbecue, storage space and prep surface — along with the option to add a sink and drinks fridge — in one unit, so no more traipsing in and out to your main kitchen.

Create Ambiance

The number one priority is to design the patio or deck space so it delivers the functionality you need and include destination areas to suit the activities you most like to enjoy the most. A dining table, sofa, kitchen with social bar, fire feature with seating wall,

Don’t forget accent lighting and planting! 

Quality Deck Materials

If you’re redoing your outdoor space, it’s crucial to get the foundations right with quality decking. Not only does it visually set the tone, but it provides the durability and safety needed in any outside living area.

Natural wood has a tremendous amount of upkeep. Composite decking from manufacturers such as Trex and Timber Tech is the better alternative to wood decking. There are many color and style options available in the market. You can expect a virtually maintenance free long usable life from composite decking and warranties to back it up. 

Add Character With Stone

Stone is on trending right now. The right stone design and installation is perfect for adding warmth and texture to a home both inside and out. Cast stone and artificial stone panels are a budget friendly alternative to natural stone.

Stone is a great finish for vertical space. Filling the vertical dimension with texture complements the horizontal spaces and gives your eyes a 3D masterpiece to behold.

Stay Toasty and Cozy

If you are building an outdoor space in Maryland you will want to extend the season of usability. Don’t limit your outdoor living to the warm months.. Adding an outdoor fireplace or fire bowl is a great place to start, bringing warmth, coziness and an irresistible focal point that will draw people outside. Including some low voltage lights will make the space feel cozy and inviting in the dark evenings. 

Position furniture topped with plump cushions in front of the flames, and add a rug, pillows and some blankets. Choose furniture and décor pieces in the same colors and materials as your indoor styles to enhance the connection between interior and exterior.

Need Help Designing Your Outdoor Space?

Valley Deck & Patio is a full service design - build company and we are here to help. Get expert advice from an experienced team of professionals. We build patios, decks, and install new landscapes in Ellicott City, Severna Park, Towson, Eldersburg, Bethesda, and other areas throughout Maryland. Check out our idea book and schedule a consultation.