According to The Freedonia Group, the $5 billion outdoor furniture and grill industry will continue to grow 5.4% annually through 2008. An obvious indicator that Americans are “living to the outdoors” more than ever.
Home furnishings expert and author Jennifer Litwin explains that the “outdoor room”’s popularity among homeowners is driving patio furniture and grill sales. “Today’s outdoor living area reflects the homeowner’s indoor style,” Litwin explains. “The days when the patio is filled with flimsy plastic furniture and umbrellas that blow away in the wind are gone.”
Litwin explains that this year’s trends for outdoor furniture and accessories are: weather sustainability, plush seating, elegant flooring and an entertainment area that provides proper electricity, gas and water for the space.
Some of Litwin’s favorites are:
LIGHTING
Low-voltage, well-designed lighting can increase a home’s value, showcase a beautiful garden and get rid of unwanted animals.
Litwin pick: At Lowe’s, you can find the Brightscapes Collection, for $119 (set of 10 lights).
GRILLS
Trends in grilling include: sideburners, hybrids (can use mixture of gas and charcoal), and quality and durability that mirrors what you might find in an indoor kitchen.
Litwin pick: The Weber Genesis (E310) is a great all-around gas grill that retails for around $360 (www.buy.com).
FIREPLACES
Many fireplaces cost $5-10,000, but pits are fairly easy to install yourself for under $1,000. Safe ventilation and foundation is critical, and you must meet the code in your local area.
Litwin pick: The Heater Store retails this portable fireplace for $178.50.
FURNITURE/FABRIC
Popular materials this season include a heavy-weight polyester paint on treated foam, powder-coated steel and titanium. These are materials that maintain their look and construction even in the winter months.
Litwin pick: Design Within Reach offers many classic contemporary styles using the latest weatherproof materials.
FLOORING
Many floors need a protective sealant for outdoors, especially near cooking areas. Stylish outdoor carpets are an economical way to cover up a bad floor underneath. Good drainage will help a flooring system last longer.
Litwin pick: Tiles can be easily linked together from about $7 per tile from Linkdeck.com.
UMBRELLAS
This season’s umbrellas are larger, more colorful and have remote tilting options not seen much in previous seasons.
Litwin pick: Wal-Mart’s Better Homes & Gardens Collection offers this 9’ tilting umbrella for $129.
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