Summer in New England doesn’t last long, but it sure is a fun time of year. From later sunsets to backyard barbecues, there’s never been a better time to enhance your outdoor spaces. Whether you own a historic home in Cambridge or a coastal cottage on the Cape, the right outdoor renovations can transform your property into a seasonal retreat for entertainment and relaxation.
Here are some of the best outdoor renovation ideas for making the most of summer life in New England. Partnering with an experienced Boston area contractor can bring the whole vision together seamlessly.
Build or Upgrade a Deck
A well-designed deck creates the perfect setting for grilling, dining, reading, or just enjoying a quiet evening. Composite decking is an increasingly popular choice for its durability and low maintenance. However, if you prefer rustic, classic charm, go with natural wood. You may want to add built-in seating, rail lighting, or planter boxes to enhance usability and style.
Add a Fire Pit or Outdoor Fireplace
New England evenings can get cool fast, even in summer. Incorporating a fire feature that everyone can gather around is a wise investment. Not only does a fire pit keep your outdoor space warm and cozy, it offers a natural gathering place for friends and family. From rustic to built-in stone, nothing achieves ambiance and functionality like a fire pit.
Consider a Covered Patio or Pergola
A covered patio or pergola offers shade of varying degrees from the summer sun, extending the outdoor season thanks to its shelter from light rain or wind. Complement your yard’s lush summer greenery with pergolas featuring climbing vines like wisteria or clematis. If you want to go with a more finished look, consider retractable canopies, ceiling fans, or outdoor heaters for chilly evenings.
Install Walkways and Landscapes
Walkways and landscaping add beauty to your property, of course, but they also improve flow, safety, and function. Transform your yard with strategic landscape lighting, flagstone or bluestone paths, as well as defined planting beds. Incorporate native plants like hydrangeas, daylilies, and hostas to add a pop of seasonal color with minimal upkeep. Manage elevation changes by adding stone walls or raised beds.
Design an Outdoor Kitchen
Love to entertain? Wouldn’t an outdoor kitchen make everything easier? No more sprinting between your indoor kitchen and outdoor entertainment areas. Now you can have everything in one spot. Consider a simple built-in grill station with counter space or get more elaborate with a sink, fridge, or pizza oven. Add granite countertops offset by stainless steel appliances that will weather all of New England’s seasonal changes.
Create a Multi-Zone Backyard
Instead of a large open space, divide your backyard into zones: dining, lounging, playing, and gardening. You can get more function out of this layout while making for easier maintenance. To define each space, use planters, elevation changes, or low walls. For example, pair a raised deck with a sunken fire pit area to improve flow and add texture to your outdoor space.
Outdoor renovations in New England are about so much more than just aesthetics. They’re about making the most of a season that is far too short in this region. From decks and patios to kitchens and fire features, making the right upgrades will lead to enjoyment and convenience for years to come.
Contact AD Construction
Ready to kick off your summer in style? Call us at 1-877-345-BUILD and our Boston builders will book a consultation and free estimate.
