Here in the Midwest, we have a limited amount of time to enjoy the warm weather— so we need to make the most of it! Spruce up your yard with these must-have summer 2022 trends.

structured outdoor areas

Homeowners are taking their outdoor space to the next level by creating open air bonus living areas. Decks and patios are the perfect spot to create well-defined room-like hangouts. Wayfair's 2022 Outdoor Trends Report noted a 369% increase in searches for outdoor pergola kits compared to the year prior.

petscaping

Barkitecture, also known as animal-first architecture, is all the rage right now. Barkitecture aims to create pet-friendly spaces that are aesthetically pleasing. Homeowners are incorporating doghouses, pet furniture, dig pits, catios, and features that provide enrichment into their outdoor designs. Petscaping also focuses on safety with many owners opting to skip the pesticides and remove toxic or thorny plants.

cabana stripes

This bold, minimalistic pattern has evoked nautical vibes since the mid-1800s. Cabana Stripes are a timeless style that combines fun and opulence. In order to be a true Cabana Stripe, one of the stripes needs to be white and they're wider than a pinstripe. Cabana Stripes can run vertically or horizontally. Utilizing this design in your outdoor space will make you feel like you're sitting poolside at a posh resort all summer long.

expansive outdoor cooking

Grill retailers reported a 14% growth in revenue in 2021, a trend that's expected to continue into this summer. Consumers are venturing beyond standard propane grills and taking their outdoor kitchens up a notch with pellet grills, pizza ovens, and cooktops.

vertical gardens

Vertical gardens are a space-saving solution that allow you to plant dozens of veggies and flowers without taking up the whole yard. If you only have a patio or balcony, this is the perfect way to bring greenery to the space! Vertical gardens are visually appealing and will add structure to your outdoor area.

permeable pavers

Not only are these pavers visually interesting, they're also a great way to go green! Permeable concrete or grass pavers are installed on top of stones or aggregate that act as a filter for stormwater. Instead of collecting water on the surface of your patio, this system allows rainwater to seep back into the ground. In turn, this reduces erosion from dead grass and lessens the burden on storm drains and natural bodies of water. Using these pavers, you can build a gorgeous patio with a positive eco impact!