2025 Outdoor Living Trends Forecast

The POLYWOOD team worked with top design professionals to predict the outdoor living trends set to shine in the coming year. We gathered valuable insights from Jessica Duce, owner and principal designer at JDuce Design; Nikki Watson, owner and staging coordinator at The Design Quad; and Megan Pierson, EVP of Business Development at POLYWOOD.

Explore fresh ideas for exterior design, color schemes, landscaping, lighting, and more—along with style tips for incorporating multiple trends into your outdoor space.

Outdoor Design and Style

Picture your next patio refresh with these new and ongoing outdoor trends.

1. Sustainable Patio Furniture

In a world increasingly focused on responsible living, sustainable furniture isn’t just a passing trend—it’s a mainstay. This smart and stylish commitment to the planet continues to thrive because it connects aesthetics with sustainability. As consumers continue to educate themselves on environmental issues, they’re drawn to do their part. So they seek designs that not only look good but also do good.

Plus, furniture with a story carries a certain appeal—whether it's upcycling to create something new, reviving vintage finds, or crafting through closed-loop manufacturing.

2. Multiuse Outdoor Areas

Multi-functional spaces continue to trend because homeowners, especially those working with limited room, see the value in them. They can maximize every inch of their properties and create one spot that fills so many roles, from a dining room to a workspace.

Adding in the sustainability component, people also appreciate that one versatile space reduces waste: The need for excess furnishings is reduced, which leads to fewer discarded items over time. Instead of buying separate items for different rooms, homeowners can invest in adaptable furniture that serves multiple purposes, such as a table with built-in storage or a dining set that doubles as a daytime desk.

3. Sensorial Designs

Homeowners are drawn to the sensorial design approach because it elevates everyday areas into inviting and relaxing multi-sensory settings. Through a thoughtful blend of visuals, scents, textures, and sounds, people can craft immersive outdoor spaces that promote health and well-being.

Water features like fountains are an easy way to incorporate sensorial design into outdoor spaces. The soothing trickling sound and the visual appeal of moving water create a calming mood.

4. Blending Indoor and Outdoor Spaces

Blurring the lines between interiors and nature has become popular not only for homeowners but also for vacation rental hosts. This trend allows them to extend living spaces into the outdoors, where guests can cozy up by the fire, enjoy family meals, or watch movies with surround sound—all while immersed in the fresh air.

5. Accessible Spaces

Inclusive outdoor areas have steadily gained popularity because of a growing commitment to making homes safe, comfortable, and accessible for all. By weaving in features like smooth pathways, wide entrances, and adaptable seating, these areas ensure that anyone, regardless of mobility, can enjoy the outdoors.

For instance, an upper deck designed with anti-slip treads on stairs, a convenient wheelchair ramp, and adjustable furniture becomes the ideal hangout for gatherings and leisurely afternoons, inviting everyone to mingle without a hitch.

Colors and Materials

Explore new hues and materials reshaping outdoor living.

6. Jewel Tones

Jewel tones are still popular in outdoor design, transforming spaces into inviting retreats. Rich colors like emerald green, ruby red, and deep amethyst create a vibrant backdrop that draws the eye and enhances the natural surroundings. These bold hues add depth and evoke a sense of luxury and comfort, elevating outdoor settings.

Blend these beautiful shades through plush seating decked with jewel-toned cushions and throws. Pair a sapphire sofa with emerald accent pillows and use deep amethyst planters to showcase colorful blooms. For added warmth, drape twinkling lights overhead, creating a cozy ambiance that fosters relaxation and enjoyment.

7. Warm and Cozy Colors

“We are seeing warm, earthy tones with rosy tints in the upcoming collections,” Jessica says. “People are embracing these cozy colors because they’re comforting and welcoming, two things we all want guests to feel when they step into our homes.”

Rich hues like teak, mahogany, terra-cotta, and clay make outdoor spaces feel inviting. Their aesthetics blend seamlessly with the surrounding landscapes too, creating connections to nature.

Bring these hues home through a wood-toned sofa topped with dusky rose cushions. Flank it with terra-cotta and clay-colored planters filled with vibrant greenery and strands of lights overhead that cast a warm glow over the entire space.

8. Metallic Accents

People are all in on pairing various outdoor materials with metallic details. “It's giving modern farmhouse meets CEO energy,” Nikki states. “And who doesn’t want that vibe?”

The contrast between textures like wood, stone, high-density polyethylene (HDPE) plastic, or brick and the sleek smoothness of metals invites depth and visual interest to outdoor settings. Metallic accents also offer versatility, blending beautifully with many design styles while giving homeowners the opportunity to elevate their aesthetic. Additionally, metals are durable, making them a practical outdoor option.

Make metallic accents feel right at home with these suggested pairings:

• Matte bronze hardware on a dark greige front door
• Cedar siding with brushed copper gutters
• Teak-toned lounge chairs with brass-finished side tables
• Concrete pavers surrounding a sleek black metal fire pit
• Natural stone walls with bronze light fixtures
• Black deep seating sofas paired with stainless steel coffee tables
• Bamboo planters atop matte silver stands
• Slate pathways with brass-toned landscape lights
• Exposed brick walls adorned with iron lanterns

9. Bold Patterns and Colors

After years of minimalism and neutral tones dominating design, homeowners are starting to embrace bright hues and lively patterns. The shift reflects a need for self-expression and more personalized settings where one can color outside the lines.

10. Textured Materials

“Texture is still very big, and I don’t see that going anywhere,” Jessica says. “Outdoor bouclé is still in high demand and it performs well in private residences as well as short-term rentals where it has to stand up to high traffic.”

We're seeing a growing emphasis on textured materials in outdoor design, enhancing both sensory experiences and aesthetics. Beyond fabrics like weather-resistant chenille and the aforementioned bouclé, POLYWOOD’s varied lumber finishes offer additional texture and dimension. From smooth surfaces to wire brush-inspired finishes to textures with tonal depth, these materials bring a rich tactile quality to any outdoor setting.

Pairing textured surfaces—like plush cushions, sleek woven rugs, and our distinct lumber finishes—creates depth and visual appeal, effortlessly complementing design styles from minimalism to bohemian. These elements invite relaxation and provide lasting durability, perfect for styling cozy and inviting outdoor spaces.

11. Lounge Layering

Cushions are taking the spotlight in this comfy concept. Instead of traditional chairs, this approach uses a mix of pillows and cushions to create inviting, adaptable seating areas. Picture a sun-drenched patio where thick cushions in warm earth tones invite guests to kick back and relax, giving cozy bohemian vibes.

Not only does lounge layering bring a cushy, stylish aesthetic, but it also embraces flexibility—perfect for impromptu gatherings or personal retreats. Best of all, this trend works beautifully for spaces of any size and type, transforming everything from small balconies to sprawling backyards into plush, comfortable havens.

Landscaping and Hardscaping

Take in these fresh designs and enduring elements transforming our backyards.

12. Natural Stone

“Natural stone is a big hit among homeowners because it adds a timeless and elegant vibe to patios and garden pathways,” Nikki says.

We couldn’t agree more. Natural stone is available in diverse textures and colors that complement the surrounding landscapes. The depth and sophistication this material infuses into a space is enhanced by its durability which ensures style with staying power.

Consider using flagstone pavers to create a meandering path through your backyard. Mark the entrances with arbors twined with vining flowers, and line the passage with neutral-toned benches and softly glowing landscaping lights to create a whimsical walkway.

13. Curated Spaces

Creating a designated sanctuary within your outdoor space can elevate your experience to new heights. This trend embraces the idea of crafting private areas alongside larger entertaining spaces, allowing for a balance between socializing and solitude. Imagine a cozy nook tucked away amidst lush greenery, featuring a deep seating chair and ottoman draped with soft throws in rich jewel tones, providing an intimate retreat for quiet moments.

Consider transforming a secluded corner into a serene space where you can escape into a good book or practice mindfulness surrounded by nature. An Adirondack chair and complementing side table enshrouded by strategically placed planters with thick shrubbery or trellises draped with climbing vines ensures a protected and private hideaway. This approach enhances the overall functionality of your outdoor areas, giving every gathering its own dedicated space for unwinding while maintaining an inviting atmosphere for guests.

14. Edible Plants Mixed Into Landscaping

Gone are the days of hidden backyard plots; fruits, vegetables, and herbs are sprouting up right alongside flowers and shrubs. It’s a tasty trend that enhances curb appeal and brings a fresh, farm-to-table feel to your outdoor aesthetic.

Blending vegetable patches into your landscape design adds a practical, planet-friendly touch while maintaining visual appeal. It’s all about integrating nature into your setup in a way that pleases the eye and the palette. Whether you’re working with a sprawling backyard or a limited space outside your terrace apartment, this trend fits spaces of any size, giving you endless ways to nurture your home and your harvest.

15. Biophilic Landscaping

Weave nature directly into your living spaces with biophilic landscaping. This approach focuses on creating a deep connection to the natural world, integrating elements like water features, native plants, and organic elements. Picture a garden bursting with lush greenery, flowing water, and natural stone paths that draw you in and invite you to unwind and immerse yourself in nature.

Biophilic design is as beautiful as it is versatile. You can sew nature’s soothing elements into the fabric of any aesthetic, from a vertical garden on a sleek and chic rooftop terrace to salt-tolerant wildflowers and sea oats throughout a chill coastal property dressed for days at the beach.

16. Sustainable Landscaping

Sustainable landscaping is all about creating eco-friendly outdoor spaces that look stunning while saving resources. “The trend toward water-wise landscapes is here to stay,” Nikki states. “We’re talking drought-tolerant plants, so your garden stays fab without increasing your water bill—perfect for those who accidentally forget to water every now and then. It blends practicality with that ‘wow’ factor, keeping things low maintenance but high style.”

Planting native species in your yard is a great place to start, as they’re already acclimated to your local climate without needing extra water or chemicals to thrive. Xeriscaping, particularly popular in dry regions, focuses on minimizing water use by incorporating hardy plants, gravel, and efficient irrigation systems.

Outdoor Lighting and Technology

See the innovative gadgets and illuminating solutions we’re loving for 2025.

17. Human-Centric Lighting

This illuminating idea tailors color temperature, exposure, and brightness to mimic natural light patterns, which supports the body’s circadian rhythms. Designers and homeowners alike love the concept because it’s adaptable, changing to accommodate our varying comfort and ambiance needs throughout the day.

If you want to try this at home, install adjustable lights that shift from cool, energizing tones during the day to warm, calming hues in the evening to help set the stage for a lively brunch or a quiet night of journaling.

18. Statement and Mood Lighting

Statement and mood lighting continue to be hot topics because they give people control over the vibe in their outdoor spaces. With the flick of a switch, they can create the ideal ambiance for a cozy date night, an energetic party, or a peaceful evening by the fire. “If your outdoor lighting isn’t giving ‘romantic dinner at sunset,’ it’s time to upgrade—nobody’s here for bad mood lighting,” Nikki states.

Eye-catching fixtures, like blown-glass pendant lights or a trio of forged iron lanterns, not only illuminate a space but also elevate the style. The mix of form and function is a delightful touch that makes moments spent outside feel extra special.

19. Solar-Powered Lighting

Solar power isn’t a new trend, but one that’s held its glow for years thanks to its unmatched mix of convenience and style. Families love that these low-maintenance lights work independently once installed, charging throughout the day and then turning on at dusk.

Try weaving strands of solar-powered lights through the lattice on your pergola or hiding garden globes among your flowerbeds’ ornamental grasses to create an ethereal atmosphere that comes alive every evening.

“When we first moved into our house, our lights popped on at dusk, and we screamed, ‘Woah!’ like we had seen a magic trick,” Nikki exclaims. "It eliminates the worry of remembering to turn the lights on. Even better, if you're away from home, no one would know because your lights come on at the same time every day."

20. Smart Decor

Smart technology has been around for some time, but in the beginning, it often lacked visual appeal, or the designs were bulky standalone pieces. Now, outdoor decor with built-in home automation is gaining popularity due to its blend of form and function.

Imagine self-watering decorative planters that keep your flowers alive while you travel, water fountains synced to your favorite playlist, or wall art that doubles as a weather sensor. These tech-savvy enhancements are both comely and convenient, allowing people to save time and energy in style.

21. Layered Lights

Layering task, ambient, and accent lighting in outdoor spaces has become popular among property owners because the final result invites depth, versatility, ambiance, and functionality to a setting. Whether to set the tone for evening entertaining, highlight landscape features, or ensure safety, layered lighting allows flexibility to curate the ideal mood.

Follow Jessica’s lead to style perfectly layered lighting for your home. “We create our rental spaces with high and low lighting, path lighting, and colored lights in the trees and bushes to complement the outdoor design and ensure guest safety,” Jessica explains. “We even use small speakers that look like path lights to create sound zones so a large space can experience music, but it cannot be heard outside of the zone. This means your neighbors won’t be annoyed, but you can enjoy your favorite music or movie at your preferred volume.”

22. All-in-One Outdoor Home Automation

Smart technology is here to stay, and being able to run your sprinkler system, timed exterior lights, and security cameras from your phone on one app is the next step in this innovation’s evolution. Home automation apps like Amazon Alexa, Ecobee, and Google Home can handle a variety of tasks and support multiple devices at once, giving people the comfort, ease, and control they crave.

“Controlling all your outdoor features from a single app is a common request from my clients,” Jessica explains. “It appeals to everyone from homebuyers and sellers, to short-term rental and business owners.”

6 Ways to Try the Trends

Inspired by the latest outdoor living trends? Our curated mood boards are here to stimulate your creativity and help you style your backyard.

Sustainable Luxe Lounge

Imagine comfy chaise lounges crafted from recyclable materials, topped with cozy cushions and knitted throws in terra-cotta hues. Strands of warm-toned solar lights dangle overhead from a pergola woven with grape vines, and the space is further lit with low-profile landscape lights amidst a flower garden bursting with colorful blooms.

1. Vineyard Chaise with Arms and Wheels and Newport 18" Side Table in Teak, Chaise Cushion in Leaf Dune Burlap
2. Cushion Performance Fabric in Chartreuse Boucle

Curated Jewel-Toned Retreat

Picture a dreamy deck with a sustainably made deep seating sectional as its centerpiece, set atop a patterned rug that ties the space together. Vibrant turquoise and citrine cushions crown the seats, and metal side tables in deep sapphire add an elegant contrast. Nearby, a marble-topped fireplace glows warmly, with flames flickering to life with a simple tap on your smartphone, adding beauty and convenience to the scene.

1. EDGE 4-Piece Modular Deep Seating Set in Black/Ocean Teal
2. Pillow Performance Fabric in Cabana Stripe Glacier Spa

Indoor-Outdoor Fusion

Mingle indoor comforts with outdoor style on a stone patio adorned with consciously crafted deep seating chairs. With recyclable HDPE frames and soft, weather-resistant cushions, they offer visual and tactile appeal. Color-changing wall sconces illuminate the space, transitioning from a cool, stimulating tone that brightens a daytime work-from-home space to a warm, inviting glow cast over evening meals. Lush potted plants enhance the connection to nature, adding tranquility to the aesthetic.

1. Grant Park Deep Seating Chair in White/Sky Blue
2. Cushion Performance Fabric in Ocean Teal

Smart Outdoor Escape

An alfresco space that caters to all begins with an accessible dining set atop a low-profile, non-slip rug for stability. Native blooms and edible plants offer beauty and fresh ingredients at hand. Voice-controlled media systems provide hands-free entertainment, while app-controlled sprinklers keep landscaping lush with minimal manual effort. Solar-powered lights set the mood and improve evening visibility, enhancing safety and ambiance.

1. Modern Adirondack 7-Piece Farmhouse Dining Set with Trestle Legs in Slate Grey
2. Traditional Garden 16” Planter in Slate Grey

All Day, Everyday Alfresco

Transform your outdoor area into a versatile dining, entertaining, or relaxing retreat. An eco-friendly, earth-toned dining set contrasts nicely against vibrant landscaping that features edible plants for fresh flavors at your fingertips. Deep jewel-toned cushions and warm-hued pillows create an inviting atmosphere, offering layered comfort for everything from lively meals to cozy stargazing. Natural stone accents add earthy charm, setting the stage for gatherings or quiet moments in nature.

1. Martha Stewart by POLYWOOD Acadia 7-Piece Dining Set in Mahogany and Martha Stewart by POLYWOOD Acadia Dining Arm Seat Pad in Natural Linen
2. Pillow Performance Fabric in Midnight Linen
3. Outdoor Lumbar Pillow in Safari Spearmint

Cozy Connected Nook

Curl up with a good book and your best four-legged friend in this snuggle-worthy outdoor space. A light cream deep seating set accented with pillows in soft pinks, blues, and playful patterns creates a comfortable and cheerful vibe. Metallic flower vases add a touch of shine, while a mix of lighting—from dimmable table lamps to color-changing LED strips and string lights—lets you adjust the ambiance with your phone, making the space as cozy as it is convenient.

1. Vineyard 6-Piece Deep Seating Set in Sand/Natural Linen
2. Cushion Performance Fabric in Trellis Glacier Spa
3. Martha Stewart by POLYWOOD Chinoiserie Deep Seating Chair in Sand/Natural Linen