5 Hottest Outdoor Decor Trends for Spring and Summer

Let’s face it, after a long winter, there’s no better feeling than getting back outside. This year, making your backyard or patio a true extension of your home is bigger than ever.

I’ve rounded up the top trends that will transform your outdoor space into the perfect spot for relaxing and entertaining.

1. A Functional Outdoor Kitchen

It’s finally that time of year again for backyard parties and barbecues! I think an outdoor kitchen is the perfect way to make everything feel a little more special and so much more comfortable.

These can come in all shapes and sizes, from a simple grill and sink setup to a full-blown kitchen that feels like a seamless extension of your indoor one! It’s all about taking the party outside and making your yard the go-to place for hosting friends and family.

I love how this pass-through window connects the indoor kitchen to the outdoor one. It’s so smart for hosting! [From: AAHA Studio]

Adding an outdoor kitchen can really complete your garden space, making it perfect for get-togethers. [From: sort style and stage]

2. Shade and a Touch of Green

If your backyard gets a little too sunny, it might be time to think about adding a pergola. They’re a game-changer! Pergolas are pretty simple to build, super efficient, and give you just the right amount of shade.

For that picture-perfect outdoor hangout, try pairing one with a wall of greenery, a few lovely vines, and some cute outdoor decor that matches your style.

A living wall of greenery is such a beautiful way to get some privacy for your outdoor hangout spot. [From: Town and Country Gardens]

I just love how the greenery and this stylish little pergola come together in this tiny Mediterranean garden. [From: Kate Eyre Garden Design]

This slim pergola with climbing plants is a brilliant way to create some much-needed shade. [From: Wendy Black Rodgers Interiors]

3. A Totally Relaxing Escape

Spending time in the garden is all about relaxation and feeling good, right? You can make that the main focus of your space by creating a greener garden that also boosts your mental health.

Try adding a water feature to enjoy the soothing sound of flowing water. Or, if you have the room and resources, you could even think about a fabulous natural pond.

A Zen garden for meditation or a koi pond that becomes a total showstopper—the possibilities are truly endless!

A swing bench is just the perfect spot to take a break in the garden. [From: Mur-Sol Builders]

This little Zen garden nook looks like the most relaxing place for a small modern garden.

4. A Garden Home Workspace

With so many of us working from home these days, a backyard workspace or studio is such a clever addition. The trend of more ‘work from home’ time means these are really taking off.

These offices don’t have to be huge; even a small corner of the garden can be turned into a lovely home office with the right design and planning. This could also be your personal little escape, a homework zone for the kids, or even a music room just by switching up the decor.

This small backyard office is super space-savvy and looks like such a peaceful place to work. [From: Sett Studio]

A stylish and contemporary backyard studio design.

5. Fun Accents on a Neutral Base

Don’t want to do a complete overhaul of your outdoor space this year? I get it. This idea is perfect for you. If you want to add a splash of color while keeping the rest of your gardenscape, deck, or patio neutral, you should focus on smart accent pieces.

This could be anything from outdoor chairs, bright floor cushions, and clever decorative items in a corner, to outdoor lights. You can even combine all of those pieces together in a curated way! Adding that cheerful charm can lift your mood in an instant!