Here in New England, the warm weather is right around the corner, and before we know it, we will be packing our cars to head down to the Cape and the Islands or up to the Maine coastline. Due to the ongoing pandemic, we have seen many families invest in a second residence or make plans to upgrade their current summer home to have their own private getaway. These home improvements can range from small repairs to major remodeling projects. If you’ve been thinking about upgrading your summer oasis, we’ve put together some of the most popular home renovations to consider in 2021:
1. Outdoor spaces
Summer is all about outdoor living spaces. Outdoor living spaces can offer the homeowner a perfect place to lounge next to the pool, dine alfresco, or take in the surrounding landscape. Since the pandemic, we have also seen the addition of several types of outdoor spaces as a way to maximize the space on your property. This ranges from an outdoor porch or patio to additional outdoor dining options. Another popular addition has been outdoor recreation and communal fire pits for the whole family to enjoy.
2. Screened-in porches
Adding a screened-in porch is the perfect way to connect your outdoor spaces with indoor living. You can get the benefits of being outside while avoiding the mess and pests that can come with it. These screened-in porches have become increasingly popular as three-season rooms. This has been due primarily to homeowners enjoying their summer homes, not just during the summer months.
3. Bluestone patios
Bluestone patios can be a wonderful addition to your backyard. By adding a bluestone patio, you have the opportunity to make your outdoor area seem much bigger—without a time-consuming renovation. Not only does it add an elegant look to your backyard, but if you are adding any kind of stone wall nearby, bluestone is easier to work with. Bluestone is also extremely durable. If sealed and maintained correctly, a bluestone patio can last homeowners decades. It is also resistant to harsh, cold temperature changes — perfect for the changing New England weather.
4. Covered decks with fans
For homeowners who want to enjoy the outdoors without the blazing sun’s heat, covered decks and patios are a perfect solution. A covered deck is much more than a shade cover. At its heart, a covered deck is a room and usually a well-loved room. Many people rate their covered deck as their favorite space in their home. Maybe it is because it’s closer to nature. On your porch, you can hear the sounds of nature around you and take in the rich smells of the outdoors. Additionally, if you opt for a ceiling fan, they deliver a cool breeze reliably, assisting with ventilation and air circulation in your covered deck. There are so many stylish and functional types of fans on the market now. You’ll have no shortage of options if you want to purchase additional fans to use on your porch. If you want an outdoor space that’s comfortable during the summer months, you truly do need a covered deck.
5. Outdoor Kitchens
Outdoor kitchens continue to grow in popularity. Outdoor kitchen designs often imitate their indoor counterparts. Not only do they successfully transition the indoors to the outdoors, but they also help to make use of previously unused outdoor space or repurpose them. Many people stop at a grill or barbeque island, but an outdoor kitchen can be expanded to include additional cooking appliances such as a pizza oven, flat-top grill, and a smoker. Depending on the design layout, such as an island configuration, guests can gather around the kitchen, socialize and watch the chef perform culinary magic.
The sun is shining, and the weather will be sweet — why not enjoy summer by making upgrades to your summertime home now. Summer home renovations don’t have to be a hassle when you have GMT Home Designs on your team. We help homeowners add beauty and value to their property by providing the highest quality designs and service.