Another year flew by and uncertain times continue….all of it leaving an impact on the ways we see and use our outdoor space. The increased amount of time spent at home in 2020 and 2021 led families to improve their living space. And an integral part of that living space is our own front and backyards where we could always safely escape.
3D Design of a Backyard Patio and Fireplace
2021 Reflections
In 2021, demand for landscaping was off the charts as more homeowners were appreciating the comforts of their outdoor living space. Since 2021 marked the second year of dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic, landscaping businesses had the same challenges of other businesses with the tight labor market and supply chain.
However, we were never busier and because of the huge demand, there were scheduling challenges and homeowners at times had to be patient. Our goal has always been to serve our customers at the highest level, and we never compromised our quality of service in order to fit more jobs into our already full schedule.
We found that homeowners were willing to pull the trigger on plans they’d held off on in the past such as investing in larger patios, outdoor dining areas, pergolas and outdoor kitchens. Fire pits continued to be popular as well as incorporating heat lamps so that families could stay outdoors even as the temperatures drop.
In years past, yards were used quite differently than they are today. Now our yards expand our homes and there are more perks to draw us outside.
Chester Springs, PA firepit, flagstone patio and lighting.
Looking Forward to 2022
The long pandemic seems to be creeping back up on us which will continue to shape the future of outdoor living. Thoughtful outdoor living design will continue to gain momentum as families spend more time at home.
We are constantly meeting with homeowners and we reflected on the popular requests from this year to help predict landscape design trends.
Front yard renovation in Harleysville, PA
Landscaping Trends for 2022
Expanding Outdoor Spaces. With the desire to spend more time outdoors, families want to incorporate fire pits, fireplaces, water features and swimming pools. If you’re thinking about a backyard update, you might want to read How to Create a Great Backyard Design for Your Backyard Getaway.
Concrete patios are being replaced with pavers and blue flagstone with a clean and repetitive linear design. Landscape designs will be stepped up with raised beds, benches and stairways. See What’s Trending in Patio Pavers in the New Decade.
Outdoor Kitchens. There will be continued interest for outdoor kitchens and al fresco eating areas. This enables families to spend as much time as possible outdoors and with the use of a patio heater, outdoor dining areas can be used throughout the winter.
Front Yard Renovations. Curb appeal has been rising as homeowners are caring more about the way their front landscaping looks. Overgrown, outdated shrubbery and front walkways are being replaced. Pollinator plantings are being installed. ‘Sitting Boulders’ are being strategically placed. Some are even removing a part of their manicured lawn, opting for hospitable spaces for gathering with neighbors. Curb appeal matters to homeowners. Enjoy reading The Best Front Yard Landscaping Tips.
Naturalistic Feel. Mixing Soft and Hard Elements. Filling the landscape with plants is great, but designing the landscape with a mix of landscape elements break up the monotony and create a natural look. Stones and boulders are a great way to mix up the landscape. Soft elements include grasses, perennials and hard elements include natural stones or pavers. Water elements and landscape lighting can take a yard to the next level.
Pollinator Friendly Gardens. In a growing effort to save our bees, pollinator gardens are a growing trend that we do not see going away. A small garden bed or even a few containers can make for a pollinator-friendly oasis. There are lots of different varieties of plants to attract hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees. And don’t forget the milkweed for the caterpillars! Here Are 6 Great Plants to Attract Pollinators.
Native Plants. Native plants restore and preserve biodiversity. They tolerate the conditions of your area and stand the test of time.
Outdoor Lighting. With more LED and solar options available, homeowners are interested in more extensive lighting around their home. Why be left in the dark when daylight ends. With the right lighting, the play of light and shadow can also give your favorite trees and shrubs an entirely new look. See how Outdoor Lighting Makes a Big Difference.
Mixing soft and hard elements in Pottstown, PA
For All of Your Landscaping Needs, Trust Whitehouse Landscaping
For over 20 years, Whitehouse Landscaping has been working with clients to create beautiful landscapes. We are a dependable design-build-maintain company who is knowledgeable and experienced in everything outdoors. Along with the latest trends, we can provide services for all of your other landscape needs.
If you have any questions about your property, or you want to schedule a consultation, get in touch or call 484-300-4290. We’re happy to help!