As outdoor living spaces evolve, the focus is shifting toward creating multifunctional environments that maximize comfort, functionality, and style. Joe Raboine, Vice President of Design at Oldcastle APG, recently shared his insights on emerging outdoor living trends for 2025. From microspaces to sustainable materials and seamless indoor-outdoor transitions, Raboine highlighted how consumer preferences are redefining the modern backyard.
2025 Outdoor Living Trends: 8 Trends Reshaping Modern Poolside Retreats
Maximizing Small Footprints with Microspaces
With backyards shrinking over the past few decades, homeowners are getting creative with smaller outdoor areas. “The average lot size has been halved in many communities,” said Raboine. “However, these smaller spaces can still offer incredible functionality and aesthetic appeal.”
Raboine emphasized the concept of “microspaces,” a term used to describe small yet functional outdoor areas. These spaces can include everything from cozy seating arrangements to plunge pools and vertical gardens. “It’s all about changing the perception. A 20×50-foot yard may not seem large, but when approached as an extension of indoor living, it becomes an opportunity to create something extraordinary,” he said.
This shift is also encouraging designers and contractors to explore underutilized areas like side yards and front yards. “Adding outdoor features to these spaces not only maximizes square footage but also enhances the overall experience of the home,” said Raboine.
Biophilic Design: A Growing Connection to Nature
One of the most prominent trends for 2025 is biophilic design—a concept that emphasizes harmony with nature. “The pandemic reminded people of how essential outdoor spaces are for their mental and physical well-being,” said Raboine. “We’re seeing more homeowners incorporate natural elements like plantings, water features, and natural textures.”
Biophilic design goes beyond aesthetics, aiming to create spaces that engage the senses. “Think about how the sound of water, the feel of a natural stone paver, or the warmth of sunlight can elevate the experience of being outdoors,” Raboine explained. He also noted the growing popularity of materials that mimic nature, such as textured concrete pavers that resemble stone.
Sustainability Takes Center Stage
Homeowners are increasingly prioritizing eco-friendly options in their outdoor spaces. “Sustainability is no longer a niche preference—it’s mainstream,” Raboine said. “Millennials and Gen Z, in particular, are driving demand for recycled materials, permeable pavers, and native landscaping.”
Permeable pavers, which allow water to pass through and replenish groundwater, are gaining traction as a sustainable solution for driveways and patios. “They’re not just environmentally friendly—they’re also highly functional and visually appealing,” Raboine noted.
Additionally, vertical gardens and built-in planters with raised beds for native plants are becoming staples in urban settings where space is limited. “These features not only support biodiversity but also create vibrant, lush environments,” said Raboine.
The Evolution of Color in Outdoor Design
Color is playing a more significant role in outdoor design than ever before. “It’s not just an afterthought anymore,” Raboine said. “Color is often the first thing homeowners consider because it sets the tone for the entire space.”
According to Raboine, bold and tranquil colors are trending in tandem. “We’re seeing people experiment with striking hues for focal points while using calming tones for the surrounding areas,” he explained. This interplay between bold and serene creates visually dynamic spaces that still feel cohesive.
Mixing Materials for a Striking Look
The trend of mixing materials is redefining outdoor aesthetics. “Consumers are no longer sticking to one material for their entire backyard,” said Raboine. “They’re blending pavers with composite decking, faux turf, decorative stone, and even porcelain to create unique, layered designs.”
These combinations not only draw the eye but also enhance functionality. For example, porcelain pavers paired with concrete can create seamless transitions from patios to pool decks. “Mixed materials allow homeowners to personalize their space and achieve a look that’s both modern and timeless,” Raboine added.
Wellness in the Backyard, a Popular Outdoor Living Trend
As the concept of wellness continues to influence design, more homeowners are transforming their backyards into personal retreats. “People want their outdoor spaces to be sanctuaries where they can relax, recharge, and connect with nature,” said Raboine.
Popular features include meditation areas, yoga spaces, outdoor spas, fire features, and water elements. “It’s all about creating a multi-sensory experience,” Raboine explained. “Soft lighting, soothing sounds from water features, and the warmth of a fire can completely change how a space feels.”
Seamless Transitions: Bringing the Indoors Out
Designers are focusing on creating seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces. “Gone are the days of a single sliding door leading to the backyard,” Raboine said. “Now, we’re seeing folding glass walls, zero-edge transitions, and other innovations that blur the line between indoor and outdoor living.”
Raboine also highlighted the importance of aligning outdoor features with indoor ones. “Think about how a fireplace outside can mirror one inside, or how a bar counter can extend through a window to connect the kitchen with the patio,” he said.
Year-Round Usability
Finally, making outdoor spaces usable year-round is a priority for many homeowners. “Features like pergolas, pavilions, and infrared heaters are enabling people to enjoy their outdoor spaces regardless of the season,” said Raboine. “Even in colder climates, thoughtful design can make these areas comfortable and inviting.”
Heating elements, weather-resistant materials, and adaptable enclosures are just a few solutions that allow for year-round use. “It’s about creating spaces that adapt to the changing seasons while maintaining their aesthetic and functionality,” Raboine explained.
The Impact of These Outdoor Living Trends
The trends shaping outdoor living in 2025 are redefining how homeowners use their spaces. By prioritizing multifunctionality, sustainability, and wellness, these designs are not just about aesthetics—they’re about improving quality of life. “Outdoor living is no longer an afterthought,” Raboine concluded. “It’s an integral part of how we live, and the innovations we’re seeing today are only the beginning.”
From microspaces to year-round usability, these trends highlight the endless possibilities for modern outdoor living. With thoughtful design and innovative solutions, homeowners can create spaces that are not only beautiful but also deeply meaningful.
Ready to take a deeper dive and learn more about the outdoor living trends reshaping today’s modern backyards? Listen in on our conversation with Joe Raboine, VP of Design for Oldcastle AGP, on the Pool Magazine podcast.
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