As the weather warms up, homeowners are flocking to the great outdoors—right in their own backyards.
And shouldn’t that experience be as inviting and life-affirming as possible? When it comes to outfitting your outdoor space, be sure to include the bare necessities—comfortable furniture and green plants to liven up the space, for starters.
But what other items will help transform your backyard into a space where everybody wants to hang out? We have answers! There’s a bevy of outdoor decor pieces that are resonating with buyers these days. Data collected over the last three months, from online shopping tool Klarna, revealed certain trends taking off with homeowners. So make these easy, backyard upgrades before the year’s warmest weather sets in.
Folding doors are more popular than ever
In the last three months alone, purchases of folding doors have spiked 99%, according to Klarna. This trend makes sense, as people integrate their indoor and outdoor spaces, says Joy Aumann, a licensed real estate agent and the founder of California’s Luxury SoCal Realty.
“Folding doors allow a seamless transition from inside the house to outside, creating a beautiful and functional space that feels larger and more open, Aumann says.
When selecting a folding door, keep your specific climate and needs in mind, advises Jason Farr, an interior designer and the founder of Aviara Pavers, a design and outdoor living space headquartered in San Diego, CA.
“Different materials can offer you year-round energy efficiency and thermal performance, depending on where your home is situated,” Farr says, explaining that folding patio door sets come in a variety of materials and finishes, including premium aluminum, wood, or vinyl. “You can find the style and material that go well with your home’s design, while selecting finish options that go well with your interior and external color scheme.”
An array of folding door options is available at the Home Depot, starting at around $1,999.
It makes sense that demand for outdoor lounge chairs is soaring, but the current most popular styles include wooden chairs (up 363% over the last three months). Purchases of rattan chairs in the last three months have increased by 40%; and in the last month alone, purchases of Adirondack chairs are up by 54%.
“Outdoor seating options should be comfortable, durable, and versatile to suit different occasions and moods,” says Artem Kropovinsky, an interior designer and founder of Arsight in New York. “Wooden chairs complement any style of patio and can be mixed and matched, and classic rattan chairs add texture and warmth.”
A full range of outdoor seating options are available on Amazon, starting at around $60.
Striped pillows are popping up on patios everywhere
One of the best ways to instantly upgrade your outdoor space is with pillows. Striped pillows, in particular, are a major draw, according to Klarna; sales have gone up 139% during the last three months.
Stripes are having their day in the sun, because they add a pop of color and pizzazz to the generic, monochromatic seating sets generally available, says Davin Eberhardt, home designer and founder of Nature of Home, a website dedicated to home improvement info.
Options for striped outdoor pillows abound at Wayfair, with prices starting at around $15.
Go green with boxwood plants
As many backyard gardeners wait patiently for their spring flowers to pop up, they’re investing in sturdy boxwood plants. Klarna reports a 165% increase in boxwood plant sales in the last three months.
“Boxwood plants are a popular choice for landscaping and decorative purposes, due to their evergreen foliage and versatility,” says Nathan Claire, founder of Buying Jax Homes in Jacksonville, FL.
But be sure to consider the ideal size and shape of boxwood plant for your backyard—as well as the responsibility you’re taking on when planting them, Claire warns.
“They come in a variety of sizes and shapes, from small topiaries to larger hedges, so think about your needs carefully before buying,” he says. “Also, keep in mind that boxwood plants thrive in well-draining soil and moderate temperatures. Before purchasing, consider your climate and soil conditions to ensure that boxwood plants will grow well in your area. These plants also require regular pruning to maintain their shape and health, so make sure you’re up for it.”
A wide variety of boxwoods are available at The Home Depot, with prices starting at around $25.
Kathleen Willcox, realtor.com