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!

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.
Show More

Share Us!

Xscape 2 Nature Blog

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.
Gray stamped concrete patio with square stone pattern.
By chris darr November 16, 2025
Learn how patios, pavers, and professional hardscaping increase home value in Maryland. Discover why design expertise and proper installation make a difference.
Backyard patio with a stone fire pit and outdoor kitchen, adjacent to a two-story beige house
By chris darr November 9, 2025
Explore Maryland’s top landscaping and hardscaping trends for 2025. Xscape 2 Nature designs outdoor living spaces, patios, and kitchens that elevate your backyard.
Backyard view of a white two-story house with decks, stairs, and a stone wall patio designed by X2N
By chris darr October 30, 2025
Discover design ideas and materials for the perfect patio upgrade. Learn how lighting, fire features, and smart planning can transform your outdoor living space.
Custom paver patio under construction by X2N, a Maryland outdoor living and hardscaping company
By chris darr October 20, 2025
Winter is the perfect time to design your spring patio. Work with Maryland’s leading custom patio builder, Xscape 2 Nature, to plan your outdoor space today.
Custom outdoor fire pit and patio combination designed and built by Xscape 2 Nature
By chris darr October 14, 2025
Learn how to choose the best materials for your outdoor fire pit or fireplace. Get expert tips from Maryland’s leading hardscaping and outdoor living company.
Overhead view of a complete patio installation with seating, outdoor fire place and walkway
By chris darr October 6, 2025
Protect your patio from winter damage with expert maintenance tips from Xscape 2 Nature, Maryland’s trusted landscape and outdoor living company.
Brand new custom patio with outdoor grill in Maryland
By William Randazzo September 29, 2025
Learn expert Maryland patio installation and design tips. Create a functional, beautiful backyard patio you’ll actually use with guidance from pros.
More Posts