As a nation, the global pandemic taught us the importance and value of our outdoor spaces. For the best part of two years, we were forced to re-evaluate the role of our homes and gardens, resulting in many of us choosing to invest more in our outdoor spaces than ever before.

For UK homeowners, the multiple lockdowns reignited our love for the great outdoors, creating a “holiday at home” culture that’s continued to flourish over the last couple of years, and shows no signs of slowing down. This trend has been fuelled by several factors including the desire for extra living space, an increased focus on health and wellbeing and a keen interest in adding to the value of our properties in the current volatile housing market.

 

The importance of green spaces 

 

According to research, approximately 87% of British homes have gardens – with 7 out of 8 households having access to either a private or shared garden – equating to around 23 million residential outdoor spaces across the UK. 

Another survey carried out by Hamptons – “The Home Experts” – revealed that 61% of respondents who moved home in the last two years stated that outdoor space was a very important factor when choosing a property, while 78% confirmed that they invest financially in their garden every year.  

The demand for homes with larger gardens and outside space has increased significantly over the past three years, as buyers place a greater value on the lifestyle and wellbeing elements of a home. Because of this, more and more homeowners are seeking quality products that allow them to utilise their garden by helping to blur the boundaries between indoor and outdoor living.    

 

Increased property value

 

A well-maintained outdoor space can make the world of difference in terms of curb appeal and property value – regardless of its size. A study carried out by the Post Office in 2020 revealed that a landscaped garden could add up to 77% to the value of a property.

Whilst a landscaped outdoor space may not be within everyone’s budget, there are a number of improvements you can make to the exterior of your home that are quick, easy and affordable and achieve the same result.  

 

Home improvements

 

The UK has experienced a significant increase in home improvements and a drive to create the most stylish and luxury garden designs. This drive has been powered further by the rise of the ‘home influencer’ sharing Instagram-worthy content to inspire consumers to renovate and rejuvenate their homes and outdoor spaces.

One of the key reasons behind this shift towards outdoor living is the desire for additional living areas. Many homeowners are looking to create an extension of their indoor living space by adding features such as decking, hot tubs, outdoor kitchens and additional seating areas including pergolas and covered patios. These spaces not only provide extra room for entertaining friends and family but also increase property value.

For hospitality and commercial establishments, previous social distancing rules and restrictions meant they had to reconsider the use and functionality of their outdoor areas, and for many, this is still a priority. Today, the commercial sector continues to aim to utilise every inch of available outdoor space – with year-round flexible solutions being a popular option.

 

Changing weather patterns 

 

Although the UK isn’t renowned for its hot weather, the past few summers have been an exception with long spells of uncomfortable heat, causing the nation to question whether they’re prepared for the warmer weather and likely heatwaves the country is predicted to experience over the coming years.

On the other hand, as we transition into the winter months, it’s important that our outdoor spaces are equipped to stand up to the UK’s adverse weather conditions, including wind, rain and snow.

This is where premium solutions such as all-weather pergolas, louvered roof canopies and patio awnings come in. These products have the ability to adapt to these changing ambient conditions, providing an open-air alfresco feel when left fully open, and ensuring a completely water, wind and even snow-tight roof when closed. No matter the size of your outdoor space, these products can act as an extension of the roof of your property, linking the home and garden and making both areas look and feel bigger.

 

The homebuilding industry 

 

Just as outdoor living has climbed its way to the top of homeowner wish lists, it has also become a priority for architects and design professionals focused on residential design. 

In 2022, the New Home Trends Institute (NHTI) published ‘The Future of Home Design’ survey which targeted over 300 industry professionals including residential architects, designers and builders. Offering insight into a number of home design trends expected to rise over the next three to five years, 58% of respondents confirmed that connection to the outdoors/nature will be an important influence on their design choices in the coming years, while 45% said outdoor entertaining will also receive increased attention.

To conclude, the home represents the biggest ROI, with people spending more time at home now than ever before. This combined with a home improvement sector that’s ripe for continued growth means the scope for outdoor living and additional extended living solutions is huge.  

 

By Stuart Dantzic
Managing Director, Caribbean Blinds UK

Stuart Dantzic is a forward-thinking entrepreneur and Managing Director of Caribbean Blinds – the UK’s leading manufacturer and installer of luxury external shading systems.

Stuart recently decided to extend Caribbean Blinds’ factory site by 10,000sq/ft (increasing production facility by 50%) and helping to facilitate further growth by playing a part in an ambitious strategy to more than double the size of the company over the next 3 years.
Caribbean Blinds was ranked 17th in the Top 100 UK SME Awards 2023, while Stuart was also selected for the prestigious Suffolk 100 list for 2022.

 

For over 35 years, Caribbean Blinds has been devoted to transforming the use, functionality and enjoyment of both residential properties and commercial spaces, with products available through their trade partners and specified by architects and designers.