An elegant pavilion, charming deck, or rustic shed can transform your outdoor space into an appealing and functional haven. The right structure will become a natural extension of your living space–serving as an ‘extra room’—an outdoor structure that is modern yet classic with multi-functional features.
When strategically planning your structures–your outdoors can become a salubrious space to relax, socialize with friends, or simply connect with nature. But with the plethora of structure alternatives available in the market–which one is best for you: a shed, a pavilion, a pergola, or a pool house?
That’s why, here, we are listing down our top five picks for such outdoor structures to empower your flexible living and storage:
Outdoor Patios
With 63.7% of residential homes equipped with the structure, Patios have become an essential element–for all the right reasons. They are an outdoor structure usually attached to the house. It’s a paved area made of materials like bricks, stone, concrete, or pavers, set directly on the ground without a roof.
Patios are incredibly versatile spaces. They can be used for family meals, quiet lounging, barbeque parties, and a variety of other activities. Plus, they require relatively less construction and maintenance than most enclosed structures, thus saving you big bucks.
Decorate your patio with double-duty furniture, such as storage benches and tables. To enhance the functionality of your space even more, add deck boxes, cabinets, wall hooks, and planters with storage.
Deck
Whether you choose a lavish, small, minimalist, or modernist deck, this outdoor structure will become your personal sanctuary for entertaining and relaxing.
The best part is that decks offer ultimate customization. They can be attached, freestanding, single-level, or multi-level decks. You can also get them built out of wood, composite, or other synthetic materials.
But first, start by determining the size and layout of your Deck. Include spaces for dining and seating. You can also fancy up the deck to become the center of your outdoor space with a fire table, outdoor kitchen, and entertainment areas.
Multi-level decks are the best option for storage. The lower level can be dedicated to storage, while the upper surface will become the house’s relaxing or entertaining hub.
A Shed
If you have enough space outdoors, consider a shed. While traditionally used for storing everything from needles to patio furniture, a modern shed can be so much more than just a storage unit.
Customizable design and style options allow you to build a shed for every purpose—a home office, guest room, or creativity den–and store essentials.
Plus, if your budget is a little tight, you can get a rent-to-own structure. This will allow you to enjoy the ownership benefits with flexibility on the rental agreement (36 or 60 months) – a smart alternative to save upfront expenditure.
However, choosing the right material makes all the difference regarding durability, weather resistance, and ease of maintenance. Resins, for example, are excellent options for low-maintenance and weather-resistant sheds. On the other hand, a wooden shed offers a timeless rustic feel that blends perfectly with nature.
Also, you can personalize the shed with windows and skylight–especially if you plan to use it as an office or studio. Paint the exterior to match your home’s overall landscape. You can even extend the roof for additional living space.
Pergolas
Pergolas are practical and attractive shade structures. They can be stand-alone elements or cover the patio with vertical posts and upper frameworks of crossbeams. For added shade, you can layer the pergolas with cloth or mesh.
Use clever storage solutions to maximize the utility of the structure. Install hanging storage options–hooks for garden tools and string light with storage cubbies. Wall-mounted, freestanding, and corner shelves, along with storage benches, will offer even more storage space in the outdoors.
Pergolas are a great way to define outdoor space–especially when built over walkways, pool decks, or sitting areas. Leveraging its functional yet charming appeal, you can create designated outdoor living spaces around the property.
For example, a pergola near your garden would be the perfect spot to enjoy evening tea. Wherever you add it–pergolas will surely lend an essence of sophistication and storage.
Gazebo
Gazebos are freestanding, open garden structures (mostly octagonal or hexagonal) with a roof. They make a great outdoor structure, especially when bejeweled with flowering vines that take over some parts (pillar or roof section).
Gazebos can become the focal point in landscaped outdoors–something to be enjoyed and appreciated. If your property has elevated land, building the Gazebo on the elevation will provide the ideal view while sheltering you from the sun.
Usually, these are built with built-in seating inside the sheltered area. However, you can customize them to add storage space under the seats. For added privacy, you can use latticework, outdoor curtains, or drapes around the open area.
Choose Your Outdoor Structure Wisely
While there are dozens of outdoor structure options in the market, the above-shared five alternatives are the perfect starting point. Adding any of the above to your property will improve the visual appeal of the outdoors while providing functionality–like lounging, entertaining, and storage space.
So, add one of the outdoor structures to your front or backyard. And as the need grows, consider lavishing your exterior with even more beautiful and functional buildings along the way.
