Outdoor Living Trends We’re Seeing in Wisconsin This Year

Homeowners across Northeast Wisconsin are investing more into outdoor living than ever.

Here are the trends we’re seeing locally, that you could consider if you’re interested in transforming your outdoor space into one that is functional, beautiful, and perfect for your lifestyle.

Top Trends

Multi-purpose patios

We are seeing more customer’s request patios that serve multiple purposes. From dining and lounging zones, to grill stations and wet bars. Think about how you use your space the most — is it for hosting? Is it for happy hour with your significant other? Is it for activities to keep the grandkids busy while they are at the lake house? The days of having a concrete patio with only furniture are over, choose a space that you’ll want to use all year round.

Covered Structures

We’re seeing a major increase in demand for covered structures, and for good reason. Homeowners across Northeast Wisconsin are bringing back the idea of “three-season” outdoor rooms that allow them to enjoy their space longer throughout the year.

Covered patios, pergolas, and enclosed structures provide shade in the summer, protection from rain, and a comfortable place to gather well into spring and fall. Because Orion Landscapes for Living is both a landscaping and general contractor, we can design and build these spaces as fully integrated extensions of your home.

Whether it’s a pergola over a patio, a roofed outdoor living area, or a custom three-season room, we focus on structures that are functional, durable, and built to handle Wisconsin weather.

Functional Plants

Plant choices today are becoming more intentional. We’re seeing increased demand for:

• Privacy plantings to block neighboring views and define outdoor spaces

• Low-maintenance plant selections that thrive in Wisconsin’s climate

• Native and hardy varieties that require less watering and upkeep

• Lakeshore plantings for erosion control and wildlife.

When designed correctly, functional plants can create natural privacy screens, soften hardscapes, reduce maintenance, and improve drainage, all while enhancing the overall look of your outdoor space.

Low-maintenance designs

We only get a certain window in Wisconsin to enjoy the outdoors, so we don’t want to be spending our time cleaning, maintaining, and fixing our outdoor areas. Instead, customers are opting for more low-maintenance designs that don’t require as much attention. That means gravel over mulch, low maintenance plants, integrated lighting, pavers over concrete, and hiring Orion to do all the in-betweens.

Layered Lighting

Lighting is one aspect we always encourage customer to go with. Ditch the cheap string lights and dim patio light and instead opt for layered lighting for safety and appeal. This can elevate your entire backyard and shed even more focus to your beautiful outdoor area.

Designs that blend functionality with durability are especially popular in Wisconsin’s climate.