Top 10 Outdoor Remodeling Trends for 2025

Chicago homeowners are reimagining their outdoor spaces in ways that go beyond simple patios or grilling stations. Outdoor remodeling has become a tool to create beautiful extensions of our homes, combining functionality, design, and sustainability to make the most of every square foot. These spaces are no longer limited to warm summer evenings; they are thoughtfully designed havens created for enjoyment in every season.

If you’re considering adding value and charm to your outdoor areas, our design team is here to walk you through the top outdoor remodeling trends for 2025. From cutting-edge designs to eco-friendly solutions, here’s everything you need to know to transform your outdoors.

Trend 1: Outdoor Kitchens

Imagine dining under the stars with a fully functional kitchen at your fingertips. Outdoor kitchens are no longer just a grill in the corner; they’ve evolved into complete culinary spaces. Equipped with refrigerators, sinks, pizza ovens, and even bar seating, outdoor kitchens bring a whole new meaning to entertaining at home.

For Chicago homeowners, functionality and durability are crucial. Opt for weather-resistant materials like stainless steel for appliances and stone countertops that can handle heavy winters. Consider modular designs if you’re working with limited space or adding components in phases over time.

Want to take your outdoor kitchen to the next level? Add features like built-in smokers, beverage coolers, or hidden storage to keep your space as tidy as it is functional.

Trend 2: Fire Pits and Fireplaces

Nothing makes Chicago’s chillier evenings more inviting than a warm glow from a fire pit or outdoor fireplace. These cozy gathering spots continue to trend as a must-have for outdoor living spaces, with designs that range from rustic stone to sleek and modern. Gas-powered units have risen in popularity due to their convenience and safety. If you want to enjoy your outdoor space well into the fall, a fire pit or outdoor fireplace is absolutely essential.

For homes with children or pets, safety is key. Investing in features like protective fire screens or spark guards can give you peace of mind while adding style to your project. Choose materials like heat-resistant concrete or built-in brick to stand up to Chicago’s seasonal extremes.

Whether it’s for roasting marshmallows or setting the ambiance, a fire feature instantly transforms an outdoor gathering into something unforgettable.

Trend 3: Sustainable Landscaping

Chicago homeowners are becoming more mindful of their environmental impact, and sustainable landscaping is gaining momentum. From drought-resistant native plants to rainwater harvesting systems, eco-friendly designs are as beautiful as they are responsible.

Consider swapping water-hungry lawns for alternatives like clover or ornamental grasses that thrive in the local climate. Native Chicago plants, such as butterfly weed or prairie dropseed, are also excellent options as they require less water and support local ecosystems. You could also incorporate plants like lavender or marigolds, which naturally repel pests. Pair these choices with drip irrigation systems for efficient water use. Permeable pavers for walkways and driveways are also trending because they reduce runoff and improve drainage.

Sustainable landscaping not only supports the environment but also reduces long-term maintenance costs, saving you time and money.

Trend 4: Smart Outdoor Lighting

Smart technology has moved beyond the walls of your home and is now illuminating your outdoor spaces in brilliant new ways. Energy-efficient LED fixtures, motion sensors, and app-controlled lighting systems allow you to customize your outdoor ambiance with ease.

Imagine patio lights that automatically adjust at dusk or pathways that light up as you walk by. Need a warm glow for dinner or vibrant hues for a party? With the latest smart outdoor lighting innovations, you’re in charge.

For Chicago weather, consider weatherproof light fixtures with IP65 ratings or higher. These will handle rain, snow, and freezing temperatures while keeping the ambiance impeccable.

Trend 5: Multi-Season Rooms

Sometimes, the weather in the Windy City doesn’t play nice. Multi-season rooms, like enclosed patios or sunrooms, allow homeowners to enjoy their outdoor space year-round. If you really want to get the most out of your outdoor area, consider fully insulated four-season rooms or semi-enclosed areas with retractable walls that adapt to any season.

Equipped with space heaters or ceiling fans, multi-season rooms are versatile spaces perfect for dinners, relaxing, or even work-from-home setups with a view. Add plush seating and weatherproof décor to make the room cozy no matter the time of year.

Trend 6: Deck and Patio Upgrades

Gone are the days of plain, wooden decks. Today’s designs incorporate a range of materials like composite decking, natural stone, or polished concrete. These updated materials offer durability, lower maintenance, and endless design possibilities.

Chicago homeowners are also getting creative with dual-level decks or patios that define spaces for different activities. Consider adding built-in seating, raised plant beds, or even outdoor heating systems to keep your space functional and comfortable year-round.

Trend 7: Pergolas and Gazebos

For those who love outdoor living but want some shade, pergolas and gazebos are taking center stage. Contemporary pergolas go beyond their rustic roots with modern materials like aluminum or weather-treated woods. Many even come equipped with retractable canopies, heaters, or integrated lighting systems.

Gazebos, on the other hand, provide a more enclosed option that still feels open to the outdoors. As brutal as Chicago weather can be in the winter, summers are equally as harsh, making shade and comfort essential for outdoor living. Whether for a quiet escape, a dinner nook, or an entertaining hub, both options add a touch of elegance and functionality to your yard.

Trend 8: Outdoor Audio-Visual Systems

Movie nights and game days under the open sky are now easier than ever. Weatherproof televisions, hidden speaker systems, and integrated sound solutions allow homeowners to create impressive outdoor entertainment spaces.

Look for systems with wireless connectivity so you can control your entertainment with ease. Landscape speakers disguised as rocks or built-in projection systems are clever ways to maintain a sleek look while offering high-quality sound and visuals.

Trend 9: Biophilic Design with Vertical Gardens and Green Walls

Biophilic design embraces our connection to nature, and vertical gardens are a perfect example. These lush green walls, from ivy-covered surfaces to modular systems for herbs and flowers, transform unused spaces into vibrant, living art.

More than just beautiful, green walls promote wellness by improving air quality and providing natural insulation—perfect for Chicago’s fluctuating climate. Incorporate drip irrigation for effortless upkeep and a sustainable touch.

Whether on a patio, balcony, or as a striking feature in larger spaces, vertical gardens bring the calming essence of nature closer to home.

Trend 10: Bold Colors

Bold, vibrant colors are making a striking comeback in modern design, bringing energy and personality to both indoor and outdoor spaces. From deep cobalt blues to fiery oranges and lush greens, these hues provide a refreshing contrast to neutral palettes often seen in recent years.

Incorporating bold colors into furniture, planters, or accent walls can instantly enliven a space and create a focal point that reflects individuality. This trend is about unapologetically celebrating color, whether through bright textiles, painted surfaces, or even statement garden accessories. It’s a vivid and inviting way to infuse character into any environment.

Areté: Reimagine Your Chicago Outdoor Space

Outdoor remodeling in Chicago isn’t just about adding value to your property; it’s about creating spaces where you and your loved ones can build lasting memories. Whether you’re planning an outdoor kitchen, introducing sustainable landscaping, or designing your dream multi-season room, the trends for 2025 offer something for every type of homeowner.

Feeling inspired? Start small with a single project or go bold with a complete outdoor transformation. Whatever your vision, our team of experts is here to guide you through it all.

Need help bringing your ideas to life? At Areté, we design spaces that reflect the people who live in them. Contact Arete’ Renovators at 773-683-3033 to start transforming your outdoor space today.