JACKSONVILLE, Florida – When it comes to home design, one of the best rooms in the house may be outdoors.  An inviting and comfortable outdoor living space is today’s hottest home improvement trend.

“More and more people are looking to move their indoor activities outside and turn their outdoor rooms into active living spaces,” said Judith Sisler Johnston, president of Sisler Johnston Interior Design and ASID Allied Member.  “With the availability of sophisticated home products intended for outdoor use, these spaces can be elegant, well appointed and designed to suit every lifestyle.”

Sisler Johnston isn’t the only one who believes well designed outdoor rooms are becoming the favorite place in the home.  The American Institute of Architects (AIA) reports outdoor living is the No. 1 growth category.

Outdoor rooms can enhance a home’s resale value.  The AIA estimates home values increase approximately 15 to 20 percent when an outdoor room is added.  The organization also calculates outdoor rooms added to the home will return more than 100 percent of their cost.

Outdoor rooms and kitchens are becoming standards in new home construction, according to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB).  The NAHB estimates 70 percent of new construction upscale homes will feature an outdoor fireplace.

Northeast Florida’s moderate climate makes it possible to use outdoor spaces year-round.  An outdoor fireplace, firepit or patio heater can warm an outdoor room on chilly nights while ceiling and floor fans provide cool relief when temperatures rise.

Structure is important in defining an outdoor room or space and creating a serene place in which to relax and entertain.  While outdoor spaces can be open to the elements, coverage provides privacy and also makes it possible to use the space in less favorable weather conditions.

Outdoor living spaces are being designed with defined areas for cooking, dining, relaxation and recreation.  Some could be mistaken for lavish indoor spaces.  Many are equipped with home theaters, stainless steel kitchens and dining room settings.

Outdoor kitchens continue to grow in popularity.  Some cooks have found a kitchen outdoors provides a great space to prepare certain foods, such as fried fish or lobster, which may leave a strong odor inside the home.  The most sought-after appliance for outdoor spaces is the grill and gas grills are the most popular.

Stainless steel remains the material of choice for outdoor kitchen appliances but it is important for homeowners to consider what they will really need and use.  An instant hot water heater will replace the need to plumb for hot water.  A dishwasher offers convenience, but it may be easier to bring the dirty dishes inside unless the outdoor kitchen is situated far away from the indoor kitchen or if the dishware is stored outside.

Stone is the most popular finish for outdoor kitchen islands.  Consumers can choose real stone, stone veneers or faux stone.  Granite is the most popular choice for counter space.  Other options are concrete, tile and solid surface.

Comfortable upscale furnishings add style and panache to outdoor spaces.  While beach-style chairs and umbrellas will always remain popular, many are choosing oversized seating with plush cushions in water resistant fabrics.  Seating groups can be accompanied by end or accent tables.

Rugs and mats add a wonderful decorative accent to outdoor spaces.  In addition to offering a variety of colors and styles, most are designed with durable fabrics that are quick drying and easy to clean.  Modular deck tiles are also ideal for open-air areas, such as decks, patios, swimming pools or spas.  The tiles are relatively easy to install and remove.

Outdoor lighting choices are available in a wide price range.  In addition to simple string lighting, floor and table lamps are available as well as chandeliers designed for outdoor use.  Lighting can illuminates the home and showcase its beautiful setting or amenities, such as the pool.  Lighting can also make it more convenient to enjoy the outdoor space after the sun sets.

Favorite home entertainment choices are growing in popularity for outdoor use and enjoyment.  Televisions, CD/stereo/MP3 systems with game capability and wireless Internet access are showing up in outdoor spaces.

The importance of good design and an emphasis on pre-planning is becoming increasingly significant with outdoor rooms as the available options, amenities and elements continue to grow.  This is especially critical if the project is to be completed in stages.  Careful planning avoids costly problems with utility lines or the need to rip out and re-do landscaping.

“When planning or designing an outdoor living space, it is important to consider all of the furniture and features the homeowner wants the space to accommodate now and in the future so they can also plan for technology needed for the area’s intended use,” Sisler Johnston said.  “This should include electrical capability, running cable lines and providing wireless Internet access if desired.”

Sisler Johnston recommends homeowners consult with a licensed interior designer before beginning any home interior design project, including do-it-yourself endeavors.  It can be a valuable investment to have an expert review the plan and provide recommendations.

Sisler Johnston Interior Design offers comprehensive interior design services for residential and commercial clients.  The company designs private residences, builder model homes, community centers, hotel guest accommodations and office suites.  Sisler Johnston Interior Design also provides marketable designs for senior lifestyle communities.
                                               
Sisler Johnston Interior Design offers comprehensive interior design services for residential and commercial clients.  The company designs private residences, builder model homes, community centers, hotel guest accommodations and office suites.  Sisler Johnston Interior Design also provides marketable designs for senior lifestyle communities.

ASID Allied Member Judith Sisler Johnston and her team of licensed, talented designers help clients enhance their surroundings with designs that range from traditional elegance to classic contemporary style.  Sisler Johnston is Jacksonville’s leading authority on designing spectacular spaces that are beautiful, functional and reflect her clients’ personalities and lifestyles.

Sisler Johnston’s design work has been featured in numerous books, newspapers, magazines and television programs.  Sisler Johnston Interior Design celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2004 and has been recognized with more than 100 industry awards.

For more information about Sisler Johnston Interior Design, call (904) 288-0908 or visit www.sislerjohnston.com.

Photography:

1. Judith Sisler Johnston, president of Sisler Johnston Interior Design, believes outdoor living spaces are today’s hottest home improvement trend.

2. Lanai - The fireplace entertainment wall is the centerpiece in Sisler Johnston’s design for the outdoor living area of ICI’s Emerald model at Plantation Bay.

3. Tuscany - Sisler Johnston selected outdoor ornamental wrought aluminum in bronze and added luxury fabrics and cords to this elegant oceanfront condo in Hammock Dunes.
   
   
4. St. Augustine - The décor in this outdoor living space complements Sisler Johnston’s furnishings in the adjacent interior spaces.