Do you ever daydream about relaxing outdoors, soaking in the sunshine and fresh air? Having a dedicated outdoor living space can make those daydreams a reality! But besides just being enjoyable, adding an outdoor living area like a deck, patio or porch offers many other benefits. Read on to learn eight reasons you should hire an outdoor living contractor to create the outdoor oasis of your dreams.

1. Boost Your Home's Value

Investing in an outdoor living addition like a deck or enclosed porch can greatly increase your home's resale value. According to a recent survey from Rocket Homes, an attached outdoor living space can add almost $20,000 to the value of a home. Whether you're looking to sell soon or want to increase equity, an outdoor living space is a smart investment in your home. Hiring a professional outdoor living contractor ensures the space is designed and built properly to maximize the return.

2. Enjoy the Outdoors More Often

Having a designated spot right outside your home makes it so much easier to get outside more frequently. You don't have to haul chairs and accessories out every time. You can take advantage of impromptu time outdoors when the weather is nice, without much effort. From morning coffee to a sunny lunch break, to evenings hanging out with friends, an outdoor living space enables you to enjoy the outdoors on your terms.

3. Entertain Guests in Style

Entertaining guests outside is so enjoyable when you have a well-designed outdoor living area. A space like a large deck or patio provides plenty of room for gathering with family and friends. You can host casual BBQs, parties, holiday celebrations, and more. Also, having built-in elements like seating, lighting, and a fireplace or firepit creates an inviting ambiance guests will love.

4. Customize It to Your Lifestyle

One of the best things about adding an outdoor living space is that you can customize it exactly for how you want to use it. Work with your outdoor living contractor to incorporate the features and layout you find most appealing. Do you love dining al fresco? Include a built-in eating area. Want a spot to curl up with a book? Add a cozy corner nook. Dream of garden parties? Opt for lots of lighting and seating. The options are endless when you design the space around your lifestyle.

5. Increase Living Space Without Moving

Adding square footage by building out with an outdoor living addition can give you more living space without the hassle and expense of moving. If your current indoor space feels cramped, an outdoor family room, kitchen, or dining area opens up your home significantly. It essentially becomes an outdoor room, offering additional gathering space in a more budget-friendly way than a full home addition.

6. Experience the Outdoors from Home

You don't have to pack up the car and drive somewhere to enjoy the perks of being outside. With an outdoor living space, all the benefits of the outdoors are right at your fingertips. You can unwind surrounded by fresh air, trees, plants, and birdsong. Observe the sunset and gaze at the stars in the evening. An outdoor living space makes your home feel more connected to nature.

7. Grow Plants You Love

An outdoor living area provides the perfect spot to grow all the plants you love. Decorate your space with beautiful potted plants, hanging flowers, and garden beds. Plant herbs you can clip to flavor meals, or veggies for ultra-fresh salads from your backyard. Customizing an outdoor oasis with your favorite greenery is incredibly rewarding. It's easier than ever with an outdoor space designed just for gardening and relaxing.

8. Let Pets Enjoy the Outdoors Safely

Pet owners, don't forget the furry members of your family! Having an enclosed outdoor space connected to your home lets your pets get fresh air and energy out easily. A porch or screened patio contains them while still offering opportunities to bird watch or bask in the sun. Pets love having their own outdoor play area too. Custom doghouses, scratching posts, and other pet-friendly features make the space perfect for your furry friends.

Outdoor living spaces offer so much value beyond just enjoying the outdoors more. They're an investment that pays dividends for years through increased home equity, additional living areas, entertainment, and tranquility. Take the first step toward making your outdoor living dreams come true. Do your research and find an experienced, qualified outdoor living contractor you trust. Together you can design and build the ideal outdoor living addition to enhance your home and lifestyle. Call us at Knaak Design Group if you're looking to add outdoor living space to your home.