When spring hits, Dallasites flock to the outdoors. Even as summer progresses and the days heat up, you'll still find us outside during the cooler evenings, enjoying the color-drenched sunsets from our patio perches and basking in the nighttime breeze.
That craving for al fresco areas extends to our own homes, as Dallas custom homebuilder Hawkins-Welwood Homes has found. Its experts have noticed that homeowners are putting more thought and attention into their outdoor spaces than ever before, with certain elements emerging as of-the-moment trends.
Here's what's in for the outdoors right now:
High style, low maintenance
Just as artificial plants are becoming more accepted in living rooms and kitchens, they're making their mark outside too. You might be surprised at the quality of today's faux plants — you often can't tell they're not real unless you have the leaf in hand. Real grass, too, is falling out of favor, with artificial turf options providing a lush green lawn without the need to weed or water.
Living outside the box
Outdoor living rooms aren't a new trend, but they also don't show any signs of going away. With sliding or foldable doors, you can practically erase the boundary between indoors and out. Built-in misters are a must for the summer, while heaters make a porch or patio cozy in the winter. Professionals know just how to design for outdoor televisions, making sure that they're protected from the elements. A custom fire pit or water feature (or both!) makes for a memorable final touch.
Killer kitchens
The numbers don't lie: Dallas homeowners love a good outdoor kitchen. Consider practicality and ease-of-use when adding an outdoor kitchen to your custom home, and don't be afraid of built-ins. A grill that's just the right size for the space and features such as an extra sink or beverage fridge go a long way toward making entertaining seamless.
Let the team at Hawkins-Welwood Homes guide you toward the outdoor space of your dreams — that conveniently will be attached to the custom home of your dreams. Visit their website, call 972-931-1006, email Kelly Ongena at Kelly@hwhomes.com, or stop by their office at 17480 N. Dallas Pkwy., suite 217. Follow them on Facebook to see how limitless your new-home options can be.
Bring your indoor amenities outside.
