Inspiring Outdoor Living Ideas

Chris D. • July 14, 2022

There are many benefits to expanding your home to include an outdoor living space. For one thing, it adds a lot of value to the house. There is a high return on investment for adding a patio or covered porch to your property as it's an "extra" that potential buyers place a lot of value in. Furthermore, it can make life a bit more fun for you as a homeowner, even if you don't plan on selling your house in the near future.

Having that outdoor living space will allow you to spend more time outdoors, essentially expanding the capacity of your home. It will also accent the work that you've already done on your yard and garden. According to the National Gardening Survey 2018, each American household spends an average of $503 on lawn and gardening activities, which is no small feat. The question is, what can you do to get creative with your outdoor living spaces? Here are some outdoor living ideas to get inspired by.

1. A Patio

A patio space is perhaps the best opportunity for you to expand your outdoor living space. There is a certain level of variety allowed with a patio. Some patio spaces are simply made with gravel while others are more permanent and set with bricks or laid out with cement. The great thing about a patio is that you can relax with your family, or you could create a kind of grilling space with it.

2. A Porch

Porches can be added to either a front yard or a back yard. While they typically are not as spacious as patios, they do have the advantage of being raised, which means that they're often less impacted by severe weather. Porches can be covered or uncovered. You may want to consider coverings or screens if you live in an area prone to rain or bugs.

3. A Deck

A deck combines the space of a patio with the elevated nature of a porch. While a deck may require more upkeep, it's ultimately worth it. You're able to survey and enjoy your yard easily while at the same time having a space where you can hold small gatherings and even offer meals at your heart's content.

While there are many variations to choose from when it comes to outdoor living spaces, the key is to get started. Begin planning your outdoor expansion now with Xscape 2 Nature. You'll be glad you did!

Stone patio with curved stone bench and fire pit.
By chris darr January 30, 2026
Winter weather can affect patios, walkways, and outdoor features more than homeowners expect. Learn what to watch for to protect hardscapes through colder months.
Snow-covered landscape with a stone retaining wall and winter foliage.
By William Randazzo January 25, 2026
Learn how winter weather affects patios and hardscapes and what homeowners should inspect and fix before spring arrives.
Construction site with workers installing pavers for a patio, with a fire pit and a truck in the background.
January 18, 2026
Compare DIY and professional hardscaping to understand the real differences in cost, time, quality, and long-term durability for Maryland homes.
Show More

Share Us!

Xscape 2 Nature Blog

Stone patio with curved stone bench and fire pit.
By chris darr January 30, 2026
Winter weather can affect patios, walkways, and outdoor features more than homeowners expect. Learn what to watch for to protect hardscapes through colder months.
Snow-covered landscape with a stone retaining wall and winter foliage.
By William Randazzo January 25, 2026
Learn how winter weather affects patios and hardscapes and what homeowners should inspect and fix before spring arrives.
Construction site with workers installing pavers for a patio, with a fire pit and a truck in the background.
January 18, 2026
Compare DIY and professional hardscaping to understand the real differences in cost, time, quality, and long-term durability for Maryland homes.
Backyard patio with fire pit, stone seating, and deck attached to a two-story beige house on a sunny day.
By chris darr January 7, 2026
Explore spring and summer patio ideas that enhance outdoor living, from layout and materials to landscaping integration and long-term design planning.
Pool cover being installed on a patio, with a house in the background. A person kneels, working.
By chris darr December 29, 2025
Thinking about an outdoor living project? Learn why early planning helps with design, scheduling, and creating a space that fits your home and lifestyle.
Stamped concrete patio next to a house with double doors and a grass yard.
By chris darr December 21, 2025
Learn how paver selection affects the performance, durability, and design of hardscaping projects for Maryland outdoor living spaces.
Backyard with a multi-level deck, stone patio, fire pit, and stairs leading down to a lower level.
By chris darr December 15, 2025
Learn how early you can start planning an outdoor kitchen, patio, or landscape project and why early planning leads to better results.
A new stone patio next to a house with grass and a hillside in the background.
By chris darr December 6, 2025
Start the year with a beautiful outdoor upgrade. Xscape 2 Nature shares how to design, plan, and build a new patio that transforms your Maryland backyard.
Stone path and staircase leading uphill through gravel and rocks. Installed by X2N
By chris darr November 28, 2025
Discover seven hardscaping ideas that reduce maintenance and elevate your Maryland yard. Xscape 2 Nature shares designs that blend beauty, durability, and function.
Stone pathway and stairs winding through a landscaped yard with green grass and mulch.
By chris darr November 21, 2025
Learn what to expect when hiring a landscape designer in Maryland. This step by step guide explains the full process, from consultation to installation.
More Posts