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Key Takeaways: Learn about all of the assets you can add to improve your outdoor living space including; grills, decks and patios, fire features, water features, stamped concrete walkways, and shade structures. Compare their pricing options and hear what features landscaping experts recommend. |
Best Ways to Improve Your Outdoor Living Spaces
Outdoor Living Spaces are spaces that extend your indoor living area into the outdoors with functional amenities. Some of the best ways to improve your outdoor living space include adding features like; grills, decks and patios, fire features, water features, stamped concrete walkways, and shade structures. Create a seamless transition from indoors to a beautiful outdoor living space with everything you need plus, plus fresh air! If you enjoy being outdoors then learn more about these highly recommended outdoor living features.
Essential Outdoor Living Features
Your outdoor living space is more than just a backyard, it’s an extension of your home, a sanctuary for relaxation, entertainment, and re-connecting with nature. Learn more about these outdoor living features that can dramatically enhance your lifestyle and property value.
Grills
Bring the kitchen outdoors with a custom built grill station that provides shelter from rainy days. It doesn’t have to be a full blown kitchen with appliances. Grills, smokers, or combos can turn outdoor cooking into a hobby. Outdoor Living Experts recommend these industry leading brands:
For Grills: Blaze, Napoleon, Weber, Genesis, Monument and Char-Broil.
For Smokers: Traeger, Weber Smokey Mountain, and Masterbuilt Gravity Series, and Kamado Joe Classic.
Combination Grill and Smokers: Weber, Searwood Pellet Grill, Char-Griller Akorn Kamado.
Decks and Patios
Composite decks and patios expand your living space and create a seamless transition between indoors and outdoors. A well-designed deck provides the perfect setting for entertaining, relaxing, dining, and enjoying your backyard. Experts recommend: Trex, TimberTech (AZEK), Fiberon and Dekorators for composite decking.
Fire Pits
Fire Features for Ambiance and Warmth. A fire pit or outdoor fireplace creates a cozy atmosphere, extends your outdoor season, and becomes a natural gathering point. Choose from built-in stone fire pits, portable models, or elegant fireplaces that double as focal points. For Fire Pits; Belgard, Eagle Bay, Techo-Bloc, Unilock, Ledgestone
Shade Structures and Shelter
Shade Structures and Shelter. Stay comfortable on sunny days with pergolas, gazebos, umbrellas, or covered patios. These features not only protect you from the elements but also define separate zones and add architectural interest to your space. Industry leading brands include; Shade Sails & Bigley Retractable Awnings
Water Features
Create a sense of tranquility and relaxation with water features like fountains, waterfalls, and ponds. A popular addition to any outdoor living space because they add both a visual interest and the soothing sounds of the environment.
Stamped Concrete Walkways
Stamped concrete is a decorative concrete overlay that mimics the look of other materials like brick, stone, tile, or wood. Well-defined paths connect different zones and add structure to your design. Leading landscaping companies choose the Brickform brand for their stamps and for their additives and colors.
| Feature | Price Range | Typical Lifespan | Value Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fire Features | $3,000 – $6,000 | 10–20 years | Gas systems last longer than wood-burning. Minimal maintenance beyond cleaning and occasional component replacement. |
| Water Features | $4,000 – $8,000 | 15–25 years | Pumps may need replacement every 3–7 years. Proper winterization extends lifespan significantly. |
| Wood Decks | $6,000 – $15,000 | 10–15 years | Requires regular staining/sealing. Lower upfront cost but higher long-term maintenance. |
| Composite Decks | $10,000 – $25,000 | 25–30+ years | Higher initial cost but minimal maintenance and longer lifespan. |
| Concrete Patio (Broom Finish) | $3,000 – $9,000 | 25–30 years | Very durable and low maintenance. May require resealing every few years. |
| Stamped Concrete Patio | $6,000 – $12,000 | 25–30 years | Decorative finish requires resealing to prevent fading and surface wear. |
| Walkway (Broom Finish) | $3,000 – $6,000 | 25–30 years | Strong and cost-effective; low upkeep. |
| Walkway (Stamped Concrete) | $4,000 – $8,000 | 25–30 years | Higher curb appeal; periodic sealing recommended. |
| Walkway (Stone w/ Slate Stepping Stones) | $4,000 – $8,000 | 30+ years | Premium look and extremely durable if properly installed. |
| Pergola | $4,000 – $8,000 | 15–20 years (wood) / 20–30+ years (vinyl/aluminum) | Lifespan depends heavily on material choice. |
| Pavilion | $6,000 – $12,000 | 20–30+ years | Larger structural investment; roofing material impacts longevity. |
| Grill Station | $6,000 – $9,000 | 10–20 years | Appliance components may need replacement before the structure does. |
Hear From the Experts in Outdoor Living Space Design
At Dr. Dan’s Landscaping & Architectural Design we recommend that homeowners consider adding a shade structure or covered area to their outdoor living space. There are many reasons for this and you can learn more specifics by checking out our blog. It is especially helpful to add either of these to lower temperatures and protect from harmful UV rays. It gives the space an area that truly extends the indoors into the outdoors. Another bonus is that it protects your outdoor furniture from fading, and the elements if placed under a covered area.
Ready For the Outdoor Living Space of your Dreams?
Turn your yard into your outdoor home. Let Dr. Dan’s create an extension of your interior living space outdoors. Adding a patio, kitchen, fire feature, etc., only adds to your home’s enjoyment and value!
Call (757) 496-8100 Today or Request a Consultation Now.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular features to add to an outdoor living space?
Some of the most popular additions include outdoor kitchens, fire pits or fireplaces, covered patios, pergolas, built-in seating, and landscape lighting. Many homeowners also add paver patios, water features, and outdoor entertainment systems to create a comfortable, functional extension of their home.
Should I choose a pergola, pavilion, or covered patio?
It depends on how much protection you want from the elements. Pergolas provide partial shade and architectural interest, while pavilions and covered patios offer full protection from sun and rain. Your climate, budget, and intended use of the space all play an important role in determining the best option.
Is an outdoor kitchen worth the investment?
An outdoor kitchen is a great investment if you enjoy entertaining or cooking outside. Features like built-in grills, refrigerators, prep space, and storage make hosting easier and more enjoyable. A well-designed outdoor kitchen can also increase your home’s value and overall appeal.
What type of fire feature should I add?
Fire pits create a casual, social atmosphere and are great for gathering with friends and family. Outdoor fireplaces offer a more formal look and can act as a focal point for your space. Gas options provide convenience, while wood-burning features offer a traditional experience.
How important is outdoor lighting?
Outdoor lighting is essential for both safety and ambiance. Path lights, uplighting, string lights, and under-cap lighting enhance visibility while highlighting architectural and landscape features. Proper lighting allows you to use your outdoor space comfortably well into the evening.
How do I choose features that fit my budget?
Start by identifying how you plan to use the space—relaxing, entertaining, dining, or all three. Prioritize foundational elements like patios and seating areas, then add enhancements such as fire features or kitchens as your budget allows. Working with a professional designer can help you phase your project strategically while maximizing long-term value.
Hear what Our Customers Have Said
“After many years of waiting to pursue some outdoor projects on my “to do” list I finally reached out to Dr. Dan’s Landscaping. An appointment was immediately set up and Dr. Dan came to our property to discuss what we needed done. A work sketch was presented to us and we immediately decided “yes” we wanted to go ahead and get the jobs scheduled. We were never disappointed ……. Dr. Dan and company are experts and extremely professional. They are dedicated to meeting the clients needs in a timely manner and do an outstanding job. They take pride in their work and are dedicated to pleasing the homeowner.
We had major trees trimmed, an irrigation system installed, outdoor lighting installed, and a beautiful new sidewalk installed.
My husband and I highly recommend Dr. Dan’s Team. They are experts at what they do, extremely knowledgeable, and great people to work with ….. We appreciate all of you…..Thanks!”
-Susan Hagadorn, Virginia Beach
“To Whom It May Concern:
What an Incredible New Yard!
I first contracted with “Dr. Dan” to put in a new fence in our backyard. Our old one was in terrible condition. They did such a fantastic job and our new fence looks so beautiful. I feel they went WAY above and beyond giving me more than I asked for at a very reasonable price.
They did such a great job with the fence that I asked them about the possibility of updating our landscaping. WE recently had several home remodel projects done and the contractors tore up the backyard. Dr. Dan and his crews designed a beautiful landscape plan for us and now, rather than an eye sore, I believe we have the best looking yard in the neighborhood. Or at least we will once the newly planted grass seed grows in. They put metal edging around all the flower beds and filled them with top quality mulch. Again, they went way above and beyond and even pruned back some of our existing shrubbery.
If you are looking for the best fence and/or landscape contractor in Virginia Beach, look no further than Dr. Dan’s Outdoor Living.”
Sincerely,
-Sidney and Sandy Allwein – Virginia Beach