The #1 Mistake Homeowners Make When Designing Outdoor Spaces

Design creativity is not limited to the space inside the home. In fact, creating an outdoor space is one of the most thrilling aspects of homeownership. Who doesn’t get excited about the idea of transforming an unused patio or porch into a treasured family oasis?

Yet, when tackling these projects, I see far too many homeowners fall into the common trap of prioritizing trends over timeless functionality. The allure of what’s “hot” right now can be deceptively strong, but chasing trends without focusing on practical design principles often leads to regrets, headaches, and wasted money.

If your customer is planning an outdoor upgrade, before letting them get swept up by Pinterest boards or showroom displays - help them by focusing on three key areas to help the outdoor space stand out: symmetry, shade coverage, and sight lines. Add to that the importance of considering the local climate and the role of smart features, such as adjustable louvers, and you’ll have a strategy that creates not only beauty but also lasting value and comfort. 

PERGOLUX North America

Symmetry, Shade Coverage & Sight Lines Matter More Than Trends

It’s easy to scroll Instagram, spot a fancy modern fire pit or colorful patio pavers, but without carefully considering the layout of the space, these additions risk making the yard appear visually overcrowded.

Outdoor design thrives on balance. For thousands of years, the most remarkable and memorable outdoor spaces have all had three elements in common: symmetry, shade coverage, and sight lines. Trends come and go, but these three components will make or break any patio, porch, deck, or pergola.

Symmetry is the understated secret behind inviting spaces. In a word, it creates peace. It gives the eye a place to rest. Align seating areas evenly, balance greenery throughout, and ensure pathways flow seamlessly with the layout of your home. Best of all, a symmetrical design fosters a calming environment and never feels dated.

If your customer plans to enjoy their outdoor space, shade is non-negotiable. Sure, spending time outdoors sounds idyllic, at least until people are baking in direct sunlight with no protection. A well-designed outdoor space incorporates ample shade from elements like umbrellas, shade sails, or the adjustable louvers on a pergola’s roof. Not only does shade improve comfort, but it also prolongs the lifespan of furniture and finishes being exposed to the elements.

In an outdoor space, sight lines always add a touch of magic. When you cleverly craft layers of natural elements to lead the eye to a single focal point, you transform a space from “meh” to “wow!”

Imagine sitting in the outdoor space and enjoying a clear view of lush greenery, a sparkling water feature, or even a cozy focal point like a fire pit. Designing the space with intentional sight lines is far more impactful — and timeless — than jumping on whatever furniture trend is currently dominating social media.

PERGOLUX North America

Ignoring the Local Climate Sabotages Outdoor Upgrades

One of the least glamorous but most essential parts of outdoor design is considering the client's local climate. When homeowners forget this in pursuit of the latest aesthetic, weather conditions quickly turn their upgrades into a disaster.

For example, if you're working in a region with frequent rain, investing in outdoor cushions that aren’t waterproof will have customers constantly battling mildew. Regions prone to wind will wreak havoc on lightweight patio furniture or flimsy shade canopies. Sunny climates call for UV-resistant materials to keep colors from fading. Areas with heavy snowfall can cause irreparable damage to pergolas and gazebos that are not designed to withstand the challenge.

Understanding the climate shapes your design from start to finish, impacting everything from the outdoor flooring you lay first to the accent plants that will thrive in your finished space. Considering the climate can save time, money, and frustration in the long run.

Outdoor Spaces with Smart Features

Trends in outdoor spaces will come and go, but some of the most groundbreaking innovations will upgrade the outdoor space for years to come. For example, many pergolas were traditionally built with slatted roofs to offer a dappled mix of sun and shade. Today, adjustable louvers provide a controllable solution protecting customers from the sun, heat, and even a bit of rain. 

Aside from providing flexible shade coverage, adjustable louvers protect outdoor furniture from long-term weather damage, meaning fewer replacements over time. They also extend your yard’s usability, turning it into a relaxing haven regardless of the season. More importantly, they’re an upgrade most homebuyers are thrilled to see. Adding modern, practical features like these boosts resale appeal far more effectively than trendy decor choices that may feel dated within a year or two.

Integrated smart features are just starting to appear in outdoor spaces. For the first time, a smart pergola can be controlled with a smart home hub. This future-proof technology ensures compatibility across different smart home brands and allows for voice-controlled operation from anywhere, making it ideal for homeowners who want their technology to evolve with their needs, rather than becoming obsolete.

Designing Outdoor Spaces That Stand the Test of Time

It can be tempting to chase trends when designing an outdoor space, especially when glossy magazines and social media are full of gorgeous inspiration, but the true test of a successful outdoor design is how well it works year after year.

Prioritizing symmetry, shade, sight lines, and climate-friendly choices will ensure the space remains functional, beautiful, and deeply comfortable over time. Top it off with smart features like voice and mobile command, and you’ll not only create a space your customer will love but one that future buyers will covet too.

Before jumping onto the latest trend, take a step back and ask: “Will this space work for my client, their climate, and their home in the long term?” When you design with purpose, your customer can enjoy their outdoors without compromise — and that beats any fleeting trend every single time.