4 Outdoor Design Tips Backed by What Homeowners Actually Use

Today’s homeowners are investing more time and money outside but not every yard upgrade gets used. According to national data, the number of new homes built with patios has jumped from 47% to 64% in the last 15 years. Meanwhile, average outdoor time has risen by 22% in just one year.

What separates a yard that sits empty from one that’s used every week? Smart planning rooted in how people live, relax, and connect.

Here are four research-backed principles to help your clients design outdoor spaces that deliver real utility and lasting value.

1. Match features to lifestyle, not trends. Ask your clients what their day-to-day looks like. How often do they host? Do they eat outside? Garden? Clients who connect outdoor design to lifestyle goals are more likely to use the space regularly. In fact, 82% of millennial homeowners with backyards say they spend all available time outside.

2. Prioritize low-maintenance choices. Native and drought-tolerant plants are preferred by over 83% of homeowners. And for good reason. They use less water, require less care, and stay resilient in climate extremes. Pair them with features like drip irrigation and permeable pavers to reduce maintenance time and long-term costs.

3. Design for well-being and connection. Access to greenery has been linked to reduced stress, improved mood, and stronger community ties. Biophilic elements: shade trees, garden zones, small water features aren’t just aesthetic choices. They directly impact how often people use the space and how good they feel in it. Mental health outcomes improve by up to 62% when greenery is built into the environment.

4. Think in terms of year-round utility and resale. Well-designed landscapes can increase home value by up to 12.7%. Features like fire pits, built-in seating, and ambient lighting increase seasonal usability and add curb appeal. Buyers want function, not flash and these features consistently rank in the top 5 requests among landscaping clients.

If you’re managing a property, guiding a renovation, or helping homeowners increase long-term value, start with what people will actually use. These tips aren’t trends, they’re backed by how people live, spend, and buy.