Our Favorite Outdoor Trends For 2022

With outdoor gatherings as the new norm, many people are looking to renovate their yards or porches - adding comfort and luxury into everyday life. This year we expect the construction industry to place a greater emphasis on outdoor spaces, creating designs that consider our unique context and make people’s lives more relaxing. Here are three outdoor trends you’ll see more of this year:

Pergolas and Shade Structures

Santa Barbara regularly sees sunny days and 70-degree weather by noon, even through the winter. Pergolas and shade structures can spruce up any backyard and provide a welcoming outdoor space protected from the sun. 

Utt Construction had the privilege of installing this elegant pergola to a San Roque home. Our client envisioned a modern oasis in his interior courtyard, and collaborating with him on the design was a pleasure— the space transformed into a contemporary haven with hanging lounge chairs and gorgeous landscaping. 

Sustainable Landscaping

As sustainability becomes increasingly important, we expect to see more landscape architecture positively contributing to the environment. Using native, drought-tolerant plants and installing rainwater-catching irrigation systems are a few strategies to make your home more eco-friendly— all while beautifying your space. 

In collaboration with our client’s wishes and Dawn Sherry & Associates Architects, we had the pleasure of completing a landscape staircase on Cambridge Drive. With plain organic ingenuity while conforming to existing conditions, we used landscape ties with a compacted base and decomposed granite finish - incorporating concrete retaining wall and rock for stability of grade. Complete with water-wise planting, the staircase is a welcomed addition to the neighborhood.

Decks and Terraces

By including amenities like infrared heaters, a fireplace, or even an adobe wood-fire pizza oven, a terrace can quickly become the most beloved area of any home. 

Our team worked with a local family to build this terrace from the ground up. What once was a bed of dirt transformed into a beautiful space to enjoy the outdoors. From building out the structure to fine-tuning the smallest details, such as the tile, fencing, planters, and custom linear bar drain, we were thrilled with the final product. 

Renovate Your Outdoor Space Today

With clear skies and 70-degree weather, Santa Barbara is one of the best places to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors from your own home. Utt Construction would be honored to transform your outdoor space. Contact us today, and let’s start the bidding process.