Home Remodeling Trends 2025

As we approach 2025, home remodeling is evolving to reflect changing lifestyles, technological advancements, and growing environmental consciousness. The upcoming trends emphasize sustainability, smart technology integration, multifunctional spaces, and wellness-centric designs, creating homes that are not only beautiful but also healthy, personalized, and highly functional. Below is an overview of the key trends expected to shape home remodeling in 2025.

1. Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Upgrades

One of the most significant trends for 2025 is the rising emphasis on sustainability. Homeowners are prioritizing eco-friendly materials such as bamboo, reclaimed wood, recycled glass, and other renewable resources. Energy efficiency is critical, with increasing adoption of solar panels, energy-saving appliances, green roofs, and advanced insulation techniques.

Additionally, sustainable practices such as rainwater harvesting and composting systems are becoming more common, allowing homeowners to reduce their environmental footprint and contribute to a greener future. These environmentally conscious upgrades not only help conserve resources but also add long-term value to homes. (trustdale.com)

2. Smart Home Integration

Technology continues to play a transformative role in home remodeling. In 2025, smart homes are becoming more integrated and seamless rather than a collection of individual gadgets. Voice-controlled systems, automated blinds, smart lighting, and advanced security systems are interconnected to provide convenience, energy efficiency, and enhanced safety.

Homeowners are opting for whole-home automation platforms that allow centralized control via smartphones or voice assistants, enabling customized automation routines tailored to daily habits. Smart appliances that adjust performance based on usage patterns are also gaining popularity.

3. Multifunctional Spaces for Evolving Lifestyles

With remote work and dynamic family needs influencing how space is used, multifunctional rooms have become essential. Flexible layouts that can easily transition between work, fitness, entertainment, and relaxation are highly sought after.

Design solutions include adaptable furniture, hidden workstations, fold-away equipment, and layouts that maximize usability without sacrificing aesthetics. Room divisions with sliding panels and movable partitions help customize space as lifestyles shift.

4. Biophilic Design

Connecting with nature indoors remains a prominent trend. Biophilic design incorporates natural light through expansive windows, abundant greenery, and organic materials like stone and wood to create serene environments that promote well-being.

This approach helps reduce stress, improve air quality, and enhance mood by fostering a closer connection to the natural world. Expect to see more indoor gardens, living walls, and natural textures integrated throughout living spaces.

5. Wellness-Centric Remodeling

Health and wellness are focal points in home remodeling projects. Bathrooms increasingly resemble personal spas featuring steam showers, saunas, and therapeutic lighting. Dedicated fitness areas in homes are becoming standard, equipped with ventilation systems that ensure fresh, clean air.

Technologies that monitor and improve indoor air quality, humidity control systems, and non-toxic building materials bolster these wellness initiatives, creating environments conducive to physical and mental health.

6. Bold and Dark Color Palettes

Color trends for 2025 are shifting away from the all-white and overly neutral palettes of previous years. Rich, moody hues such as navy blue, charcoal grey, deep forest green, and elegant plum add sophistication and depth to interiors.

These bold colors are used either as accent walls or integrated into cabinetry, furniture, and decor, creating striking contrasts that enhance architectural details and provide cozy atmospheres.

7. Streamlined and Minimalist Kitchens

Kitchens are embracing sleek, minimalist designs with clean lines and functional layouts. Handleless cabinetry, concealed storage, and integrated smart appliances streamline spaces while maintaining a high level of functionality.

Large kitchen islands remain an important feature, serving multiple purposes including food preparation, dining, and socializing. This trend balances simplicity with adaptability, catering to modern culinary and social needs.

8. Outdoor Living Spaces

Extending living areas outdoors continues to grow in popularity. Outdoor kitchens, dining areas, and comfortable lounging spaces create seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor environments, often facilitated by large glass doors and retractable walls.

These spaces are designed for relaxation, entertainment, and connecting with nature, making outdoor living an integral part of the overall home design strategy.

9. Customization and Personalization

Homeowners are increasingly seeking personalized design elements that reflect their unique tastes and lifestyles. Bespoke cabinetry, custom-built furniture, and unique decor pieces replace generic, mass-produced alternatives.

This trend embraces individuality and craftsmanship, ensuring each remodeling project results in a truly one-of-a-kind home environment.

10. Smart Storage Solutions

Maximizing space through innovative storage solutions is crucial in multifunctional homes. Hidden compartments, modular shelving, under-stair storage, and multi-use furniture designs help keep homes organized without sacrificing style.

Efficient storage systems also support decluttering, resulting in cleaner, more comfortable living spaces that easily adapt to changing needs.

Trends Declining in 2025

Several design elements that have dominated recent years are expected to wane in popularity, including:

• Excessive gray tones, especially in flooring.
• Disorganized open kitchen shelving.
• All-white interior designs.
• Overly engineered or artificial materials, with a return to natural textures.
• Ultra-modern, sterile aesthetics, moving towards warmer, lived-in looks.
• Fixed, single-purpose rooms as multifunctionality becomes key.
• Overly ornate or cluttered decor.
• A slight shift away from open-concept kitchens in favor of more distinct, functional spaces.
• Cement tiles, often replaced by porcelain versions that mimic handmade styles.

Conclusion

The home remodeling trends for 2025 reflect a balanced blend of sustainability, technology, versatility, and wellness. By incorporating eco-friendly materials, smart-home systems, and personalized designs, homeowners can create spaces that not only enhance daily living but also contribute positively to the environment and their well-being.

Designs will become more fluid and multifunctional, catering to evolving lifestyles, while maintaining a warm, inviting atmosphere through natural elements and bold colors. Outdoor living areas and wellness features will further extend the home’s comfort and usability.

Staying informed about these trends will help homeowners and designers make thoughtful choices that combine innovation with timeless comfort.

**Private Guided Tours of New Orleans**

Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and captivating history of New Orleans with a private guided tour tailored exclusively to your interests. Explore the city's iconic landmarks, hidden gems, and local traditions at your own pace, with an expert guide who will provide insightful commentary and ensure an unforgettable experience.

**Customizable Itineraries**

At Henley's, our New Orleans private tours are designed to meet your specific preferences. Whether you're a history buff seeking a deep dive into the city's past or a foodie eager to sample its renowned cuisine, we can create an itinerary that caters to your passions. From exploring the French Quarter to visiting the National World War II Museum, the possibilities are endless. For mobility scooter and electric wheelchair rental we recommend JoJo's GoGos - located in New Orleans they offer a wide array of mobility scooters for rent in the French Quarter and across the city.

**Personalized Attention**

With a private tour, you'll receive undivided attention from your knowledgeable guide. Ask questions, engage in lively discussions, and gain a deeper understanding of the city's unique character. Our guides are passionate about the rich history and culture of New Orleans and eager to share their insights with you.

**Exclusive Access**

Our private tours of the French Quarter often include access to exclusive experiences and locations not available to the general public. Visit historic mansions, attend private gatherings, or delve into the city's vibrant music scene with insider access. These special moments will create lasting memories and provide a truly immersive experience.

**Flexibility and Convenience**

Private tours of NOLA offer unparalleled flexibility. Choose the starting time, duration, and pace that best suits your schedule. Our guides at Henley's will meet you at your preferred location, ensuring a convenient and hassle-free experience. Whether you're a solo traveler, a couple, or a group, we can accommodate your needs.

​New Orleans is a city steeped in rich history, vibrant culture, and unique traditions, making it a captivating destination for visitors. Private tours in New Orleans offer an intimate way to explore the city's hidden gems, allowing you to delve deeper into its fascinating narratives. With a knowledgeable local guide, you can wander through the charming streets of the French Quarter, where the sounds of jazz echo through the air and the scent of Creole cuisine wafts from nearby restaurants. These tailored experiences can range from ghost tours that unravel the city's supernatural lore to culinary adventures that introduce you to the flavors of gumbo and beignets. Whether you're interested in the haunting tales of St. Louis Cemetery or the intricate architecture of Garden District mansions, private tours provide the flexibility to create a personalized itinerary that aligns with your interests. By opting for a private tour, you not only gain insider insights but also enjoy a more relaxed pace, making your exploration of New Orleans truly unforgettable.

Dallas-based (or Lake Dallas, to be more precise) The Hangover Cure is back after years of hibernation. The popular hangover prevention dietary supplement drink mix was big in the early 2010's and is being rebranded now that the original owner has control of the product again. Rumors have circulated for years and it seems the relaunch is underway.

The popular drink mix can be purchased here for just $19 with free shipping worldwide. That's a pretty sweet deal for our readers. The site is predictably full of madness but we would expect nothing less. Go get em, champ. Because we've all been drinking lately.

(The Hangover Cure is a non-addictive all natural dietary supplement formulated to help with awful hangovers. Just drink before bed. We rarely do product shout outs but this one is so good and we are such long time users that I couldn't resist. The Hangover Cure is not designed to treat, prevent or cure any disease per the FDA.)

The average cost of hiring a tree service to perform tree removal in Carrollton, Texas is around $640 (range $370 to $1,310 depending on factors below). These costs and prices will vary based on issues native to your project such as: age of the tree, accessibility, condition of the tree, and size. Location in your yard can be a significant factor. Areas with a higher cost of living will be at the higher end of the range because of the complexity of the work involved.

This blog post is meant to give you a rough guess on the price to remove or prune a tree in your area. However, since costs will vary by season, we suggest that the easiest way to get an accurate price quote is to request a bid for your specific project.

Cost to cut down a tree in Carrollton in 2021
The price for such tree work in Carrollton, Texas is around $640 (ranging from $290 to $1,310). Trickier projects can cost thousands more when multiple trees are involved, or the work requires multiple crews.

The average cost to cut down a tree based on the height of the tree:
Cost to remove a 20 foot tree: $300 to $440
Pricing to remove a 60 foot tree: $600 to $1020
Cost to trim a tree in Carrollton (3-person crew)

Factors that Influence Tree Service Costs in Carrollton TX

When a tree company comes to your property to give you a price quote, they will consider several issues that can increase or decrease the cost. Cost for tree removal can vary based on the height of the tree and the ease of access to the tree on the site. The type of expertise needed can impact the price quote you receive also. Consider the following when thinking about price:

• You have a large tree (the bigger the circumference, the more pricey the job).
• You have a difficult yard to maintain.
• There are high voltage power lines near the tree.
• A crane must be brought in.
• The tree is in a poor or damaged condition.
• You are requesting an after-hours service.

Lower price factors:

• You have a tiny tree.
• You are requesting the service in the off season.
• Your site is easy to get to.
• The tree has already fallen over.
• The work can be done without heavy equipment.

Bids from Tree Services Near Carrollton, TX

US Tree Care Tree Service The good folks at US Tree Care are your local tree service near I-35 in Dallas. They are proud to assist residents in the Dallas / Ft. Worth Metroplex. Since 2002, they have been offering affordable, reliable and fantastic tree services for the residents and businesses of Dallas / Ft. Worth. Contact US Tree Care for a quote on your next project today!

Top Bathroom Updates for 2020

For many homeowners the bathroom is a place for escape and unwinding after a long day.  Unfortunately, it’s also a room that can become quite outdated rather quickly and lose some of that appeal.  That’s why we’ve come up with a quick list of top remodeling trends for those in need of a bathroom refresher for the year 2020.  The following ideas are sure to bring that perfect calming yet luxurious feel back to your personal sanctuary.

1. Vintage Style Stand-Alone Tubs

Up first is a continuing trend that just speaks of spa room luxury at first sight.  We’re talking about the stand alone bathtub.  Taking out the standard bathtub and adding a stand alone will create a wow factor immediately to any bathroom.  For the most part a full sized bathroom is best for this feature so that the eye is drawn to the sculptural element of the tub.  Some designers are even using bold colors such as deep blues and even black to create even more of an impact with this bathroom feature.  There is even a way to have a stand alone tub made out of sealed wood!

Additionally, some home remodelers are adding stand alone sinks to their repertoire.  Just another option to keep in mind!

2. Open Showers

While the stand alone tub has a modern vintage feel, the open shower is decidedly modern and definitely trending.  An open shower can also make your bathroom appear bigger instantly.  This type of shower is not for everyone, but there is an element of luxury involved that many find appealing.  Both the stand alone bathtub and open shower take their cues from day spa retreats and this is what many remodelers are seeking to emulate.  Whether you incorporate both concepts or just one, you will have a bathroom statement piece. 

3.   Brass and Gold Finishes

Modern vintage romance is the look, and one way to head in that direction with your personal sanctuary is with warm gold or brass fixtures and finishes.  

From faucets to towel racks to framed mirrors, these warmer, vintage inspired tones add depth and warmth to the modern bathroom, especially when paired with our next trending update.

4.  Marble and Marble look

The perfect pairing to romantic brass fixtures is the use of marble in your bathroom update.  Marble is timeless, classic, and luxurious.  Some home designers are using it floor to ceiling in bathrooms with incredible effects.  A much less expensive option is marble look wallpaper which still makes a statement, but is better suited to smaller bathrooms or half-baths.

5.  Bold and Shiny

While Marble is timeless and classic, there is a growing trend brand new for 2020 and that’s high color, high gloss tiling.  If you’re ready for a big change, then this is a great option for changing things up.  We’re talking dramatic, jewel-toned and super shiny.. On the wall, on the floor, floor to ceiling, or any way in between, these new tile options are on the rise.

6.  Bringing the Outdoors In

Once reserved for living rooms and dining rooms, plants and greenery are making a big splash in the latest bathroom updates.  Spa luxury is again the key phrase here and the use of live plants can also add the right amount of color to liven things up.   All you need to do is bring in a few potted plants, or maybe some wall mounts if you’re feeling adventurous.  This is sure to breathe some life into an outdated bathroom and is one of the easiest things you can do to transform the space.

7.  Minimalist Storage

Streamlined compacted bathroom storage options are a definite trend for bathroom updates in 2020.  The concept is to keep things as simple as possible to create the least amount of stress in your space.  This, of course, is a trend that home builders and renovators are moving toward throughout the entire house.  But you can start with your bathroom if you dream of a clutter free inner sanctuary.  Some options include hidden cabinets and under vanity storage.


8.  Heated Flooring

And finally, a trend that comes from Japan is the heated floor.  This comes from the idea of the wet room, which is a fully waterproof room without shower doors.. The floor is sloped and heated to encourage quick evaporation and drainage.  However, modern home builders around the world are beginning to include heated floors in bathrooms as a luxury option.  No more cold feet in the bathroom!


      We hope you enjoy creating your own personal spa getaway with one or more of these great bathroom remodel ideas for 2020.

Exciting New Kitchen Trends for 2020

Most home improvement experts can agree that the kitchen is the star space of any home and also the point of interest that jumps out at home buyers during showings.  A great updated kitchen can make or break a sale.  Some small adjustments can also reinvigorate and breath new life into a home.  Such updates may just make you choose to stay rather than sell!  Here’s a look at the top kitchen updates for 2020:

Get Rid of Those Upper Cabinets!

Number one is still the removal of upper cabinets.  No one knows why this hasn’t been a trend until recently, considering how little use those “too far up to reach” cabinets seem to get.  It’s almost comical that they even existed in the first place!  Who wants to use a step stool every time you need a certain serving dish or blender.

    If you’re like most people,  you will end up finding something that you completely forgot about during a spring cleaning or move.  Perhaps you even bought more of something you already had!  The fact is, those upper cabinets are awkward and removing them in favor of smarter storage options can make a big difference in the feel of a kitchen.

   In addition to modernizing the look and feel of a kitchen, this also opens up the space and makes it appear bigger than before.  And this leads to the second most popular trend, which is:


Custom Storage!

Storage options for specific appliances and kitchen tools.  Lots of older kitchens have been built without a consideration for what exactly the storage space would be used for.  The cabinets and drawers are often too small for storing larger appliances or too wide for optimal organization of things like dishes and cups.

So design aspects integrated into a kitchen with specific kitchen items in mind is a hot and growing trend.  Appliance garages for things like coffee pots, blenders, mixers and food processors can make a kitchen much easier to organize and far more efficient.  Built in drawer dividers for cutlery and utensils, pull out racks for spices, roll out organizers for pots and pans, waste baskets and recyclables are updates that will make a kitchen feel seamless.


Here Comes the Smart Kitchen!

  Adding to this new custom feel is the move toward the smart kitchen.  Not only can you have a kitchen that takes all the stress out of organization, but how about one that tells you when you’re running low on certain grocery items?!  This is an available update for those who enjoy smart home features.  For the savvy home remodeler, there are plenty of these options.  Smart refrigerators to smart ovens that tell you when your food is perfectly cooked… These are on the forefront of the newest in home and kitchen technology.  Then of course you can wash your hands with smart sensor faucets!



Color!

  In addition to the tech savvy updates on the horizon, is the growing trend toward painted or wood cabinets and colored appliances.  This is more about the aesthetic than organization, but still a great way to revive a basic, boring or outdated kitchen.  Moving away from the classic white cabinets and stainless steel appliances, these fun and functional color schemes bring warmth into the heart of the house.  Major appliance manufacturers are bringing color into their lines for 2020.  Keep your eye out for these new designs and don’t be afraid to play with color!


Streamlined Countertops and Sinks!

On the other hand, there is a new trend in countertops toward softer, muted colors without as much veining and pattern in the stone.  Quartz is still the material of choice due to the ease of upkeep, but there is less desire for the complex veining and particulate patterns that mimic granite.  This is in tune with the continued trend toward the streamlined, modern kitchen and offsets the bold color choices of painted cabinets and colored appliances as well.

Along with a more streamlined look for countertops, is a trend toward inset sinks of the same material as the countertops.  This lends itself to the refined look of the kitchen as a whole.


Beautiful, Yet Functional Flooring!

And last but not least is flooring.  Although wood flooring is still a hit with homeowners and buyers, we’re seeing a move toward ceramic tile flooring for 2020.  And of course this is in line with the desire for ease of use and modern simplicity in the kitchen.  


While wood flooring is certainly beautiful, ceramic tile is just the easiest to clean and keep free of bacteria.  Plus there are seemingly infinite options for color and style, including ceramic tile that looks exactly like hardwood but is far easier to keep clean.

These are just a handful of trending remodel options for the modern kitchen of 2020.  Whether you choose one update or many, your kitchen will look and feel refreshed and is sure to be a hit on the market or with friends and family. Bon Appetit! 

Quick hit - this site is expanding into offering resources for phone screen repair. Our first two zip codes are 75214 and 75205. If this mini-launch is successful, we will consider adding similar offerings in other areas of Texas.

Comfort
You’ll be more comfortable on a patio where adjustments have been made for particular climate problems.  Getting and maintaining a comfortable patio “room temperature” often depends on using the right combination of design elements (location, overheads, vertical screens) to modify strong prevailing winds or excessive summer temperatures.

Flexibility
Good patio design should accommodate and adjust to your family’s varying activities-- casual gatherings, children’s games, reading, outdoor dinners, barbecues, and so on.  A good way to achieve flexibility is to give design elements multiple jobs: built-in benches that store sports equipment, fire pits that double as low tables.  Creating access to your patio from more than one of your main indoor living areas also makes it more flexible.

Safety
Make it a point to learn about the properties of various patio building materials-- and avoid using any that might encourage accidents.  For example, some paving materials become slippery when wet; others are too uneven for children’s games, and some deck railings, though architecturally appealing, are not substantial enough to be safe.

Plan for safe traffic patterns between your house and patio and your patio and garden, and provide good lighting at steps along garden paths.

Beauty
Well put-together patios are successful because they achieve a certain balance-- both architecturally and aesthetically-- in the overall garden scheme.  Materials used in patio construction blend with those used in the house, and colors and textures harmonize in the patio plants and decorative touches.  Attention to construction and decorative details will contribute greatly to your patio’s overall atmosphere.

Getting Started

The first thing to do is decide what functions you want a patio to serve.  Then you can examine your landscape to see what you have to work with and where you want your patio to go.

Evaluate your needs

Your first thought should focus on your family’s needs and habits.  Considering the way you live, make a list of what is most important to you (if you have children, get their input too); then, if you need to compromise, you can compromise on the less important things.  

Here are some questions to consider:

Do you like to entertain with frequent outdoor dinners?  Do the neighborhood kids like to play in your yard?  Do you like to garden?  How much time do you have to keep your patio in good condition?  Do you prefer formal or casual living?  Will your pets damage fragile patio plants or furniture?  Your answers to these questions will determine some basic design elements for your patio. 

Sizing up the Landscape

Next, take stock of your yard’s assets and liabilities.  Even if you plan to enlist the services of a landscape architect, architect, or landscape designer, you should have a good understanding of your existing landscape.

Can your patio plan capitalize on a fine view?  Is your property bounded by woods?  Perhaps your design can take advantage of a sunny southern exposure, a mature garden, or an impressive tree.
Consider also your yard’s handicaps-- is your lot on a steep slope?  Is much of the lot exposed to traffic? 

Is humidity a problem in summer?  Does your present patio open off the wrong room, get too much sun or shade, or lack sufficient space?  You’ll want to plan a patio that minimizes your special problems.

Choosing a patio location

Where your patio goes will depend largely on the size of your lot, the way your house sits on it, the uses you have in mind for the patio, and your climate.  Even if you’re stuck with a slab of concrete off the wrong room, you can still remedy a poor patio location.

Locations and lot sizes
If your house sits on a small lot, you probably have room for only one patio, most likely in a conventional spot off the living room, dining room, or kitchen.  For an L or U-shaped house, however, a single patio can link and expand two or three interior rooms without consuming additional space.

If most of your yard space is in the front, perhaps your patio belongs there, protected from street traffic and noise by a screen of shrubs or fencing.  And don’t overlook a narrow side yard or a garage roof-- you may be surprised how a little imagination can transform dead space into a cozy outdoor room.

If your lot is steep with no ground room for a patio, plan a wood deck constructed above ground.  It can relieve horizontal claustrophobia by extending one or more rooms to open up the whole interior.

Homeowners with generous lots often find that several related patios suit their needs better than a single large one.  If your lot is large, consider breaking up the space with two patios, one close to the house, the other at the far end of the garden.  With patios at different spots in the yard, you can take advantage of their different exposures to sun and shade.  

Separate patios off the living room, kitchen, and master bedroom-- planned for entertaining, informal outdoor dining and solitude-- provide alternatives for a family’s changing and sometimes conflicting needs.


Remedies for hand-me-downs
If you’ve inherited a poorly planned patio along with your house, you can renovate it to suit your landscape plan.  Try enlarging it, resurfacing it, or connecting it to a new patio by a garden path.  If you’re leaning heavily toward changing the patio completely, it’s wise to remove the old patio and start with a totally new design.

Many people spread landscape fabric, also known as weed cloth, over the excavated area before adding gravel. While the fabric can keep gravel from sinking into soggy clay, it is no panacea for stopping weeds.

Landscape fabric blocks only sprouts and runners that might come up from below: it doesn't prevent seeds that land on the surface from sprouting. You can prevent weed growth just as effectively by building your path thick enough to block sunlight from the soil - and keeping the path clean of leaves and needles. 

Without decaying organic matter to nourish them, any seeds that land on the gravel and sprout will probably die on their own. If they don't, pull them by hand while they're still small. Otherwise, loosen the gravel with a pick and remove the weeds, roots and all.

Adding edging:

Gravel paths require edging materials, and most other stone pathways benefit from it as well. Besides helping to lock the paving into place, edging material often contributes to the overall appeal of a path. Some edging is barely noticeable - a good choice if you want to create an illusion that your path is winding naturally across a site.

Plastic edging is available at any masonry supply store in several styles. For gravel paths, get rolls with a wide, rounded top edge. For stone paving, look for the type designed for brick paving. An electrician can also install outdoor lighting to complete the look.

Bricks provide a traditional touch that's equally at home in a formal garden or one with a cottage feel. This product is also available at a masonry supply store. A fence stain is another consideration to give your landscaping a distinct feel.

Special thanks to Dallas Stain Pros, DFW Landscaping for contributing their thoughts.

To some people a space for outdoor living means a quiet oasis, a small green world where they can refresh themselves; to others it is a free-swinging activities area, a place to swim or practice chip shots.  

One golf fanatic I know has a regulation sand trap just off his patio, and I once visited a railroad buff whose back yard was overwhelmed by an operating signal tower.

But most outdoor spaces are intended for much the same kinds of activities as indoor ones-- relaxation, eating, entertaining, games-- and it is helpful to think of them in those terms.  Such an outdoor living space is like an indoor “family room,” one of those flexible and durable places designed to accommodate everything from family meals and informal dinner parties to messy projects and impromptu games.  

An outdoor family room can perform many of the same functions, as well as some strictly outdoor ones, if it is designed as a similarly flexible, all-purpose kind of space, adaptable to changing needs, easy to maintain, and, where necessary, sheltered from sun, wind and the neighbors’ eyes.

To function this way, an outdoor room must have the same basic elements that its indoor counterpart has: floor, ceiling and walls.  They will not be as all-enclosing as the floor, ceiling and walls of an indoor room, but they will perform very much the same tasks.  

And because they form the basic structure of the outdoor room, those parts of the elements that already exist must be taken into account during the planning stage.  The house itself, for example, provides some of the walls for the outdoor living room, and generally little can be done about changing them.  

Existing trees must usually be counted on for part of the ceiling;  which ones-- if any-- ought to be cut down will have major influence in determining layout.  But other elements need not be considered until later.  

The furnishings of the outdoor space-- the purely decorative plants, flowers, pools, lighting, statuary or whatever, as well as the actual outdoor furniture-- are, like the furnishings of a house, concerns to be taken up after the basic plan of the room has been worked out to the satisfaction of the prospective users.

The Outdoor Room

A well-designed outdoor room can be a single area behind the house, but more likely it will be divided into two areas:  one for intensive use-- generally a paved terrace near the house for sitting, dining and some children’s play-- and a larger adjoining area that gets lighter wear but can be used for almost anything-- an occasional game of catch or badminton with the kids, an overflow of guests from the terrace during a party, or just looking at to enjoy the feeling of spaciousness it gives.

The layout of these areas depends partly on the design of the house interior.  The outdoor room must be easy to reach from indoors-- ideally, it will be a physical extension of indoor living spaces.  If you have to go out a front or side door and then around the house to get to it, or if you have to go through several rooms or lead your guests through the kitchen to find it, the outdoor room probably will not be used very much, even if you spend a fortune on it.  

So if your yard is not an easy step or two from the living room, dining room or back hall, it will almost certainly be worth the expense, generally a modest one, to convert a rear window into a door.

The location of the access to the back yard usually determines the location of the terrace section.  If this space is kept close to the kitchen, meals and drinks can be served with a minimum of walking back and forth.  

Of course there are exceptions to the rule requiring the terrace to be close to the refrigerator; if by walking to another part of your property you can gain a much better view, say of a lovely river valley, it would be silly to ignore that location and build the terrace next to the house simply to have it handy to the kitchen.  

Or, if you happen to be blessed with a magnificent old shade tree that is not right near the house, a path to a terrace there might well be worth the extra steps.

It is easier to be explicit about the size and shape of a terrace.  For convenient use by a few people-- say a party of six or eight-- it should be at least 12 feet on a side, preferably 15 feet, and more square or round than oblong to allow for natural furniture groupings and room to move around in.  

A terrace that is 20 or even 30 feet across is still better; it will permit the entertaining of a large group on a summer evening, and it will also be roomy enough to do double duty as a children’s play area, one that is easily supervised from windows of the house.

For the larger open space beyond the terrace the main criteria are just that-- large if possible and in any case open.  A yard dotted with trees and shrubs at random becomes an obstacle course that is difficult if not impossible to play touch football or croquet on and, if planted in grass, an eternal nuisance to mow.