While most people think of decks as pretty basic additions to homes, 2019 is proving they can be a lot more. So, say good-bye to your standard deck boards and railings because the hottest trend this year is making a deck that doesn’t look anything like a traditional deck!

Design Showcase: Capitalizing on a Large Outdoor Space in Fulton, Maryland

Whether you’re living in an older home on acreage or a more contemporary space with ample square footage, designing an outdoor living space for a large area can actually be quite overwhelming. After all, when you have a lot of space, you have a lot of options, and that can quickly go from liberating to paralyzing. If you’re currently in this conundrum, here's an ongoing project in Fulton, Maryland, that demonstrates one way a large space can be turned into an ideal outdoor living area.

When people are interested in investing in an outdoor living space, one of the primary concerns is how to maximize the usability of that space for as many months of the year as possible. Depending on the particular climate and weather patterns of the region where that outdoor space is being designed, this can mean combating both hot summers and cold winters. In terms of winter months, infrared heaters and other outdoor patio heaters are one common means of battling lower temperatures.

Exciting New Technology in the Outdoor Kitchen Industry

Few industries have changed as dramatically as outdoor living spaces over the last several decades. While they used to be seen as areas wholly separate from the main homes, they are now integrated and coordinated with those primary living spaces. The quality and variety of the furniture, cooking accessories, and everything else associated with outdoor kitchens have increased dramatically over that time frame. The founder and president of Danver Outdoor Kitchens, Mitchell Slater, discussed what’s new and exciting today when it comes to these outdoor entertaining spaces.

Which Outdoor Heater Should I Use and How Many?

Outdoor heaters are an excellent way to extend the life of your outdoor living space—especially if the area you live experiences all four seasons. In that case, heaters can certainly make using your outdoor area during the shoulder seasons more comfortable and enjoyable. The question remains, however, which outdoor heaters will be best for your space and how many you will need to make that area as comfortable as possible.