Over the last few years, our outdoor living spaces have changed dramatically. This is due in large part to the pandemic, when desire for porches and patios was at an all-time high. The demand for beautifully designed, carefully curated outdoor spaces has shown little sign of abating since then – and we're thinking more about furnishing these spaces than ever before.
With this new interest has come a wave of new outdoor living trends. Expect these spaces to look more beautiful than ever in 2025, from earth-tone furniture to full kitchen suites.
Indoor goes outside
One of the biggest trends in the world of exterior design is the move toward outdoor spaces that resemble indoor spaces. So instead of just a few lounge chairs and a side table, people are designing entire living rooms for their backyard.
“In terms of design, outdoor furniture can no longer be distinguished from indoor furniture, and it will stay that way,” says Tobias Petri, managing director of the interior design studio Holzrausch. “Materials will remain durable for outdoor conditions, but their feel, aesthetics and functionality will increasingly reflect indoor furniture.”
Another aspect of this trend is a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces in both floor plan and construction. Jordana Moche, managing director of tile and kitchen brand Porcelanosa, says this will be achieved through retractable glass walls and multifunctional furniture. “The aesthetic continuity between indoor and outdoor floors will play a key role, creating a fluid, visual transition that blurs the boundaries between the two environments,” she says.
Neutrals and earth tones
It should come as no surprise that earth tones will be trending outdoors in the new year. These hues have made waves in the house; The great outdoors seems even more natural to them. “In 2025, outdoor spaces will embrace neutral tones like warm taupes, terracotta and olive greens, paired with grounding accents like deep forest greens, charcoal grays and rusty metallics,” says interior designer Vanessa DeLeon.
However, that doesn't mean that outdoor areas look boring. There's still room for lighter tones – if anything, a neutral background will make a pop of color stand out even more. “We will see bold color accents emerge that add vibrancy and personality,” says Petri. “As outdoor spaces increasingly reflect indoor aesthetics, color palettes will also adapt to incorporate warmer, homey hues that create a sense of comfort and cohesion.”
Lush green
Of course, plants are an important part of an outdoor living space. In the past, the focus has often been on a clean look, but designers say that's changing. “There is a move away from overly fussy landscaping and toward incorporating native plants that are more wild in nature,” says Lindsay Kissel, senior vice president of product management and design at Tuuci, a maker of outdoor patio umbrellas. “This free-form landscaping design is perfect for finding a little oasis in the garden where you can reflect, relax and enjoy nature.”
“The connection to nature will continue to be at the forefront,” DeLeon adds. “Landscapes are designed to thrive in changing climates – think drought-tolerant green spaces, regenerative materials and native plantings that create harmony with the environment.”
Fully equipped kitchens
Now let's cook. Kitchens, long an integral part of indoor spaces, are now part of outdoor living. We're not talking about a single grill oven here either – these newer versions have pretty much everything you could want. “We have already installed outdoor kitchens in several projects,” says Petri. “In the future, the planning of these technical requirements will be even more precise, so that fully functional outdoor kitchens can be created that fulfill multiple functions.”
DeLeon notices a special outdoor cooking feature that she's noticed more and more often. “Brick pizza ovens have become a sought-after feature in outdoor living spaces,” she says. “These ovens offer more than just a delicious dining experience – they create an inviting focal point that enhances the outdoor ambience.”
Mixed materials
Instead of just teak, outdoor areas in 2025 will feature a wide range of materials. Part of this has to do with new technologies and innovations that enable the safe use of different surfaces and textiles outdoors. “When choosing materials, the focus is on texture and sustainability,” says DeLeon. “Raw stone, reclaimed wood and clay surfaces will be the focus.”
Petri agrees, pointing out that natural materials are complemented by more elegant finishes such as precious metals. “Mixed materials continue to be trendy in outdoor spaces,” adds Ben Collins, president of outdoor furniture brand Brown Jordan. “We have recently introduced a few collections that are primarily made from aluminum, which offers the durability and low maintenance we are known for, but also has an accent of teak or rope.”
Smart technology
Yes, smart technology is coming to your garden too. These innovations will manifest themselves in outdoor kitchens, where technology is increasingly playing a role, but also elsewhere, such as automated lighting solutions. “Technology will enhance these spaces,” DeLeon adds. “Intelligent systems will create something [increasingly] personalized environments and immersive experiences.”
Built to last
Interior design by Lindsay Anyon Brier
Sustainability is top of mind these days and influences the way we treat outdoor spaces. In the past, garden furniture was often not well made and only lasted one season before it had to be thrown away. In 2025, people will invest in higher quality home furnishings.
“People are gravitating toward really well-made outdoor pieces that last,” says Lindsay Anyon Brier, founder and principal designer of Anyon Interior Design. “They understand that this is the most environmentally conscious course of action.”