GHBA Remodelers Council Shares Tips for Building Functional and Fun Outdoor Living Spaces

HOUSTON, TX – Thinking about a home makeover, but don’t know where to begin? Why not start in the backyard?

Members of the Remodelers Council of the Greater Houston Builders Association say many homeowners are transforming the exteriors of their houses to add extra living space and, with a little finesse, those outdoor spaces can rival the interiors.

Outdoor kitchens just kind of exploded over the past five years, said Stephen McNiel, founder of Creative Property Restoration, Inc. People used to just have a Weber grill. Now they are putting in an entire kitchen. In Houston, you can be outside from October to May, and people want to take advantage of the weather.

But that’s just the beginning.

Kenneth Charanza, president of Charanza Contracting Inc., has also seen a rise in outdoor renovations. It extends your house, he said. You can take the indoors out. Your backyard becomes another great entertainment area.

Among the ways builders recommend improving outdoor space:

— Stay in the shade. In Houston, shade structures, or even ceiling fans are essential. People can utilize outdoor space year-round, Charanza said. But if you don’t have any cover, you’re stuck with scorching Houston heat.

— Lighten up. Good lighting makes outdoor living spaces safer and extends the use of a deck or lawn into the evening. LEDs are transforming the lighting industry, McNiel said.

— Fire up the grill. Charanza and McNiel both report that many homeowners are adding refrigerators, sinks, pizza ovens, counter space and even bars. Commercial-grade grills, stainless steel cabinets and granite countertops are high on homeowners wish lists.

— Just add water. Water features are also popular, McNiel said, creating a beautiful ambiance when you are sitting outside. Especially in the Inner Loop, a water feature can become the focal point of a small space.

— Gather round the fire. People are adding outdoor seating areas around a fire, Charanza said. Gas logs are also a popular option. They can be turned on with a switch, and require less maintenance.

— Make it more entertaining. Entertainment systems added to outdoor living space can include big screen televisions and sound systems that range from small and budget-friendly to extraordinary and pricey, the builders said.

Adding unique features to an outdoor space can improve property value. People are seeing a finished entertainment space, instead of just a lawn full of grass, McNiel said, and if you have a small house, you can really extend your space. You’re creating something you can use for years.

The Remodelers Council is an excellent resource for both homeowners and industry professionals. Members include contractors, designers, building suppliers and other industry professionals. For information about the Remodelers Council of the Greater Houston Builders Association, call 281-970-8970 FREE or visit ghba.org/consumers.

The Remodelers Council of the Greater Houston Builders Association is an organization of remodelers and industry associates dedicated to the promotion of excellence and professionalism within, and public awareness of, the Remodelers Council. The Council achieves its mission through education, certification and service to the members, industry and community.