In today’s economy, many homeowners are taking a closer look at how — and where — they invest their money. This includes outdoor renovations. Large home projects can feel intimidating, especially when uncertainty is part of the bigger picture.
But here’s something worth considering:
When you’re spending more time at home, the value of your home increases.
And that includes your outdoor space.
For many families, the backyard has quietly become the most underutilized square footage on the property — full of potential but rarely designed to truly function.
So the question isn’t just “Is it the right time to renovate?” It might be, “Is my backyard working as hard as it could be?”
If You’re Spending More Time at Home, Your Backyard Should Work Harder
Travel costs are up. Dining out adds up quickly. Entertainment is increasingly happening at home.
An intentional outdoor space transforms your backyard from “extra space” into:
A gathering place
A cooking and dining area
A relaxation zone
An extension of your home
An outdoor kitchen can replace countless restaurant meals. A fire feature can extend evenings well into fall. A pavilion or pergola creates structure and comfort during hot summer days.
When thoughtfully designed, your backyard becomes an experience — not just landscaping.
You Don’t Have to Do Everything at Once
One of the biggest misconceptions about outdoor renovations is that it must be a massive, all-at-once transformation.
In reality, many of the most successful projects begin with a long-term master plan.
A phased approach might look like:
Starting with foundational hardscaping
Adding a fire feature the following season
Incorporating a pavilion or outdoor kitchen later
Enhancing with lighting and landscaping over time.
By designing with the full vision in mind from the beginning, each phase builds toward a cohesive end result — without the pressure of completing everything immediately.
Outdoor Projects That Deliver Meaningful Value
Not all projects need to be expansive to be impactful.
Transformational Outdoor Living Spaces
Custom outdoor entertaining areas
Fully integrated outdoor kitchens
Pavilions and pergolas
Poolscaping and luxury hardscaping
These projects redefine how your home functions and often become the most used spaces on the property.
Strategic, High-Impact Upgrades
Fire features
Water features
Outdoor LED lighting
Expanded patios
Enhanced landscaping and custom stonework
Even a well-designed patio extension or lighting upgrade can dramatically improve usability and atmosphere.
Outdoor Living and Property Value
While no project should be undertaken solely for resale value, thoughtfully designed outdoor living spaces can significantly enhance:
Curb appeal
Lifestyle appeal
Market differentiation
Overall property perception
Buyers increasingly view outdoor living as a must-have rather than a luxury.
Permanent improvements like hardscaping, custom stone, and architectural structures add tangible and lasting value to a home.
The Cost of Waiting
It’s natural to pause before making a significant investment.
However, there are practical considerations:
Material and labor costs rarely trend downward long-term
Seasonal scheduling fills quickly
Design planning takes time
A project completed now is one you can enjoy immediately
Sometimes waiting doesn’t reduce cost — it simply delays enjoyment.
Designing for Long-Term Use
The difference between a short-term upgrade and a lasting outdoor investment comes down to design. A well-designed outdoor space is:
Functional
Cohesive with your home’s architecture
Built with durable materials
Tailored to how you actually live
When design and craftsmanship are prioritized, the result is not a trend-driven addition — but a space that serves your family for decades.
A Thoughtful Approach to Backyard Investment
An outdoor renovation doesn’t have to be extravagant. It doesn’t have to be rushed. And it doesn’t have to be all at once.
But it should be intentional.
At its best, outdoor living isn’t an “extra.” It’s an extension of the home you already value — designed to support connection, relaxation, and everyday enjoyment.
If you’re considering ways to make your home work better for you, a conversation about your outdoor space is a smart place to start.
Outdoor Innovations: Where We Value Trust Above All
Let’s talk about what’s possible in your backyard.
Whether you’re envisioning a full outdoor transformation or exploring smaller, strategic upgrades, the team at Outdoor Innovations can help you develop plans for outdoor renovations that fit your goals, timeline, and investment level.
When homeowners start thinking about upgrading their outdoor spaces, one of the first questions they ask is: Which improvements actually add value to my home? While curb appeal is important, today’s buyers (and homeowners) are looking for outdoor spaces that function as true extensions of the home.
The right outdoor features don’t just boost resale value—they increase everyday enjoyment, improve functionality, and create memorable spaces for gathering, relaxing, and entertaining. Below, we break down the outdoor features that consistently add the most value and explain why thoughtful design matters just as much as the features themselves.
Full Outdoor Living Spaces: The Biggest Value Driver
Outdoor living spaces offer some of the highest returns because they effectively add usable square footage without the cost of a home addition. A well-designed outdoor living area feels intentional, comfortable, and connected to the home.
These spaces often include:
Defined areas for dining, lounging, and entertaining
Integrated landscaping and hardscaping
Smooth transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces
Rather than adding individual features over time, a professionally planned outdoor living space brings everything together into one cohesive design—making the space more functional and visually appealing- and Outdoor Innovations offers 3-D design services that can help you envision your space!
Patios, walkways, and custom stonework form the backbone of many outdoor upgrades. These features improve how homeowners move through their property while dramatically enhancing curb appeal.
High-value elements include:
Custom stone patios designed for durability and style
Walkways that guide traffic and connect outdoor areas
Driveways that elevate first impressions
Quality materials and expert installation ensure these features hold up over time, making them a long-term investment rather than a short-term upgrade.
Outdoor Kitchens & Built-In Appliances: High Buyer Appeal
Outdoor kitchens continue to be one of the most sought-after backyard features. They transform outdoor spaces into entertainment hubs and encourage homeowners to spend more time outside.
Popular outdoor kitchen elements include:
Built-in grills and cooking appliances
Prep and serving counter space
Refrigeration and storage
Trash receptacles
When integrated into a larger outdoor living design, outdoor kitchens add convenience, luxury, and strong resale appeal.
Fire Features: Extending Outdoor Use
Fire features add both function and ambiance, allowing homeowners to enjoy their outdoor spaces well into spring and fall. They also create natural gathering spots that enhance the overall experience of the yard.
Examples include:
Fire pits for casual seating areas
Outdoor fireplaces as focal points
Built-in seating surrounding fire features
Fire features bring warmth, visual interest, and emotional appeal—qualities that resonate strongly with future buyers.
Adding overhead structures helps define outdoor rooms and improves comfort during hot or unpredictable weather. These features make outdoor spaces more usable throughout the day and across seasons.
Key options include:
Pergolas for partial shade and architectural interest
Pavilions for full coverage and protection
Gazebos for enclosed or semi-enclosed gathering spaces
Each option offers a different balance of shade, structure, and style, allowing homeowners to tailor their outdoor environment to their needs.
Outdoor Lighting: Small Upgrade, Big Impact
Outdoor lighting is one of the most cost-effective ways to add value. It improves safety, highlights landscape features, and dramatically enhances nighttime curb appeal.
Effective outdoor lighting often includes:
Path and walkway lighting
Accent lighting for landscaping and stone features
Ambient lighting for outdoor living areas
Thoughtful lighting design ensures outdoor spaces are just as inviting after dark as they are during the day.
Water Features: Luxury and Tranquility
Custom Water Feature
Water features elevate outdoor spaces by adding sound, movement, and a sense of calm. They create a retreat-like atmosphere that enhances both enjoyment and perceived value.
Examples include:
Waterfalls
Fountains
Reflecting or pond-style features
Custom water features
When incorporated into a broader landscape design, water features can turn an ordinary yard into a peaceful escape.
Poolscaping: Creating a Resort-Style Experience
A pool alone is a feature—but poolscaping is what creates lasting value. The surrounding landscape, hardscaping, and layout determine how functional and appealing the pool area truly is.
High-value poolscaping focuses on:
Flow between the pool and other outdoor spaces
Safety and accessibility
Visual cohesion with the rest of the landscape
Well-designed poolscapes feel intentional and luxurious, similar to a private resort.
The Bottom Line: Design Creates the Most Value
The outdoor features that increase value are those that are thoughtfully planned and professionally designed. Cohesion, functionality, and long-term durability matter just as much as individual upgrades.
Whether you’re considering a single enhancement or a complete backyard transformation, starting with a comprehensive design ensures your investment delivers both immediate enjoyment and lasting value.
Planning ahead—especially before the busy spring season—allows homeowners to make informed decisions and secure their spot on the project calendar. Contact Outdoor Innovations today to discuss how we can help create the design you want for your home!
Outdoor Kitchens and Grilling Islands: Elevating Your Backyard Cooking Experience
An outdoor kitchen or grilling island is more than just a backyard upgrade; it’s a lifestyle enhancement. Imagine stepping out into your beautifully designed outdoor living space, where your perfect kitchen awaits—equipped with high-performance grills, sleek cooktops, and elegant weatherproof cabinetry. At Outdoor Innovations, we specialize in crafting outdoor kitchens that blend style, functionality, and durability, creating the ultimate alfresco cooking experience.
The Joys of Grilling and Dining Outdoors
Cooking outdoors isn’t just about preparing a meal—it’s an experience that brings family and friends together. The sizzle of the grill, the aroma of perfectly seasoned steaks, and the laughter shared around the dining table evoke a sense of relaxation and connection.
Eating alfresco is about more than great food; it’s about enjoying nature, soaking up fresh air, and escaping the confines of indoor dining. Outdoor kitchens and grilling islands transform your backyard into a personal retreat where memories are made over delicious meals.
Why Outdoor Kitchens Are a Must-Have
Outdoor kitchens offer a variety of benefits that make them a worthwhile investment:
Year-Round Enjoyment: Who says grilling is only for summer? With Outdoor Innovations’ premium outdoor kitchens, you can enjoy cooking outdoors even in the cooler months. Fire up the grill for hearty meals and pair them with cozy outdoor heating options to stay comfortable while entertaining. (Note: we do recommend unplugging and cleaning out outdoor refrigerators during the winter months.)
Convenience and Versatility: Forget the hassle of running in and out of the house while hosting. Outdoor kitchens offer everything you need—grills, cooktops, sinks, and storage—right where you need it.
Increased Home Value: A well-designed outdoor kitchen enhances your property value and creates an attractive selling point for future buyers.
Unmatched Durability: Our partnership with NatureKast Outdoor Weatherproof Cabinetry ensures your outdoor kitchen withstands the elements, maintaining its beauty and functionality year after year.
Extend the Grilling Season
As the temperature drops, many assume it’s time to pack up the grill. But with custom outdoor kitchens from Outdoor Innovations, you can keep the grilling season alive. Enjoy cozy fall evenings with grilled comfort foods like smoked brisket, roasted vegetables, or even pizzas cooked to perfection on your outdoor cooktop. With the right setup, grilling in colder weather becomes an exciting culinary adventure. Enhance your outdoor living area with a pavilion from Outdoor Innovations, and you can also benefit from the shelter (and beauty) it provides!
Custom Designs Tailored to Your Style
At Outdoor Innovations, we know that every homeowner’s vision is unique. That’s why we offer tailored designs that complement your style and lifestyle. From modern and sleek to rustic and cozy, we can incorporate features like NatureKast cabinetry, high-quality grills, and stylish appliances to create a seamless blend of beauty and practicality.
Get Inspired—And Get Cooking!
Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, whipping up a quick family dinner, or experimenting with new recipes, an outdoor kitchen provides the perfect setting to elevate your cooking experience. Ready to turn your backyard into a year-round culinary haven? Contact Outdoor Innovations today and let us bring your outdoor kitchen dreams to life.
Embrace the Fall Season with the Warmth & Elegance of a Gas Fire Pit
As the crisp air of fall settles in, there’s nothing quite like the warmth of a crackling fire to gather around with family and friends. A gas fire pit not only enhances the comfort of your outdoor space but also adds a focal point that blends style and functionality. In this recent project, Outdoor Innovations transformed a backyard into a luxurious outdoor haven, with the gas fire pit serving as the heart of the design.
The Value of a Gas Fire Pit for Fall
Fall is the perfect season to enjoy the outdoors without the sweltering heat of summer. With a fire feature like a gas fire pit, you can extend your time outside well into the cooler months. Unlike traditional wood-burning fire pits, gas fire pits offer the convenience of instant ignition, cleaner burning, and minimal maintenance. Simply turn on the firepit, and you’re ready to relax and enjoy the cozy ambiance.
In this project, we installed the Warming Trends Linear Treehouse style burner, which brings a sleek and modern aesthetic while providing a strong, consistent flame to keep guests warm on chilly fall evenings. Its minimalist design fits seamlessly into the space, creating a visual masterpiece without overpowering the surrounding features.
A Pavilion Built for Comfort
A focal point of this backyard transformation is the 16′ x 18′ White Vinyl A-Frame Pavilion from Country Lane, which provides a perfect shelter for year-round enjoyment. This pavilion is not only stunning but also practical, featuring LED lighting, ceiling fans, and outdoor heaters to ensure comfort in any weather. The pavilion’s clean, white vinyl posts elevate the space, giving it an upscale, polished look.
Beneath the pavilion, we added an eye-catching brick rug, an elegant touch that grounds the space with texture and craftsmanship. This creative feature sets the patio apart, making it feel more like an outdoor living room than a simple backyard gathering area.
Entertainment Meets Luxury
This outdoor space is designed for both relaxation and entertainment. Along with the gas fire pit, the project includes a serving island with a TV wall, perfect for watching the big game or movie nights with friends and family. The two-tier bar island adds convenience, featuring a 24″ Coyote Outdoor Refrigerator and trash unit, topped with elegant limestone countertops for a touch of luxury.
And if that’s not enough, we incorporated a 48″ Laniai See-Thru Linear Fireplace, allowing the beauty of the fire to be enjoyed from multiple angles. This unique feature adds both warmth and a contemporary feel to the space, enhancing the overall ambiance.
The Beauty of Water and Fire
A key element in this backyard transformation is the addition of a water feature that showcases five basalt columns. The soothing sound of flowing water creates a peaceful atmosphere, balancing the fire’s warmth with the calming presence of water. This contrast between elements adds dimension and serenity to the space, making it a place to escape and unwind.
The Perfect Outdoor Retreat for Fall
By combining luxury, comfort, and functionality, this backyard transformation offers everything a homeowner could want in an outdoor space, particularly during the fall season. Whether you’re hosting a gathering around the gas fire pit, enjoying a meal at the bar island, or relaxing under the pavilion with the outdoor heaters keeping you warm, every element is designed to maximize comfort and elegance.
This project showcases the value of investing in high-quality outdoor features that not only enhance the beauty of the space but also make it more functional for year-round use. As the leaves begin to change and the evenings grow cooler, a space like this is exactly what you need to enjoy the best that fall has to offer.
See what’s possible with Outdoor Innovations, and let us transform your backyard into a stunning retreatfor you and your family. Contact us today to get started on the design process!
How Digital Landscaping Design Can Transform Your Outdoor Living Space
In the world of landscape design, a new era has dawned, marked by the integration of cutting-edge digital landscaping design services. As outdoor living spaces expand and the demand for aesthetically pleasing outdoor environments grows, landscape design companies are turning to technology to create stunning and functional outdoor living spaces. One such trailblazer in this industry is Outdoor Innovations. We utilize digital design services to craft breathtaking landscapes that seamlessly blend form and function.
How Digital Landscaping Design Works
Traditional landscape design often relied on hand-drawn sketches and blueprints, which could be limiting in terms of visualizing the final outcome. Enter digital landscaping design services, where the process begins with advanced software tools that allow Outdoor Innovations design team to create detailed 3D models of your outdoor spaces. This digital canvas enables the exploration of various design elements, including plant placements, hardscapes, lighting, and even the play of sunlight throughout the day.
Benefits of Digital Design in Landscaping:
Precision and Accuracy:Digital design eliminates the guesswork associated with traditional methods. Our designers can precisely measure distances, account for terrain variations, and ensure accurate placement of every element within the landscape. This results in a more efficient and error-free planning phase.
Realistic Visualizations: Clients often struggle to envision the final outcome based on traditional sketches. Digital design provides a realistic and immersive experience by generating detailed 3D renderings. We will help you virtually explore your future outdoor spaces, allowing for better decision-making and a stronger emotional connection to your design.
Iterative Design Process: One of the significant advantages of digital design is the ease of making changes and exploring multiple design iterations. Our designers can quickly adjust elements, experiment with different ideas, and fine-tune the landscape to perfection. This iterative process ensures that the final design truly reflects your vision.
Collaborative Planning: Digital design facilitates collaboration between designers, architects, and clients. By sharing digital models and renderings, together we can provide feedback in real-time, fostering a collaborative and transparent design process. This open communication ensures that everyone is on the same page, leading to a more satisfying end result for your design.
Efficient Project Management: Once the design is finalized, the digital model becomes a valuable tool for project management. We will use the digital model as a reference, streamlining the construction process ensuring accuracy for your design and limiting the possibility of error. This efficiency ultimately saves time and resources.
Trust Outdoor Innovations to Help You Envision Your Landscaping Project
As we witness the rise of digital landscaping design as a tool to create beautiful outdoor living spaces, companies like Outdoor Innovations, serving the Quad Cities area, are at the forefront of innovation. Through the integration of advanced technology, we are transforming outdoor spaces into works of art, blending functionality with aesthetic appeal. The benefits of digital design, from precision and realism to collaboration and efficiency, are reshaping the landscape design industry and paving the way for a future where every outdoor space is a masterpiece waiting to be unveiled.
Your backyard is more than just an outdoor space; it’s an extension of your home, a place where memories are made, and relaxation is embraced. However, sometimes, the potential of this space lies dormant, waiting to be unveiled through a transformative makeover. In this blog, we take you through an awe-inspiring journey of a backyard transformation that turned a mundane outdoor area into a captivating oasis. From the removal of old structures to the addition of new elements, every step of this makeover showcases the power of creativity, design, and vision.
Before and After: A Visual Delight:
The journey begins with a stunning visual comparison of the backyard before and after the transformation. The removal of the pergola, deck, and patio marked the first step towards a fresh canvas, setting the stage for a complete overhaul. The contrast between the old and the new is truly remarkable, highlighting the potential that was waiting to be unlocked.
Creating Elevated Spaces: The Kodah Wall and Grill Island:
One of the standout features of this makeover is the incorporation of a High Format Kodah wall. This ingenious addition not only frames the new upper patio but also adds a touch of sophistication. The Kodah wall becomes a backdrop for the focal point of outdoor culinary delight – the Grill Island. Complete with a 36” Coyote Gas Grill, access doors, and a trash compartment, this island redefines outdoor cooking. It’s a space where flavors sizzle and conversations flow.
Privacy and Purpose: Installing Fences and Concealment:
A functional backyard is not just about aesthetics; it’s about creating a seamless blend of beauty and purpose. The installation of a privacy fence serves a dual purpose: hiding unsightly elements like air conditioners, trash bins, and generators, while also creating a dedicated storage space. This transformation shows how strategic design can turn potential eyesores into hidden treasures.
Paving the Pathways to Elegance: Montrose by High Format Pavers:
The journey from the driveway to the patio becomes a graceful stroll with the installation of Montrose by High Format large format pavers. These pavers, with crushed granite between them, redefine the very concept of outdoor pathways. The result is not just a way to get from point A to point B, but a visual delight that enhances the overall aesthetics of the space.
Redefining Comfort: The Country Lane Vinyl “A” Frame Pavilion:
Imagine a space where you can unwind, entertain, and simply be. The addition of a Country Lane 14 x 18 Rectangle vinyl “A” frame pavilion does just that. It’s a haven that offers shade on sunny days and shelter during light drizzles. With careful design and placement, this pavilion seamlessly integrates with the landscape, becoming a natural gathering point.
Entertainment Meets Refreshment: The TV Wall and Serving Area:
In the era of outdoor entertainment, a TV wall becomes an essential element. The use of Unilock Lineo creates a modern backdrop, perfectly complementing the outdoor entertainment setup. This area isn’t just about watching your favorite shows; it’s about creating lasting memories with loved ones. The inclusion of a Coyote drop-in cooler and an outdoor refrigerator ensures that refreshments are always within arm’s reach.
Warming the Nights: The Gas Round Firepit:
As the sun sets, the ambiance changes, but the charm remains. The gas round firepit, built using High Format Belvedere stone and a Warming Trends 180K BTU cross fire burner, becomes the heart of evening gatherings. It’s where stories are shared, laughter echoes, and bonds are strengthened.
Elegance and Functionality: Unilock Beacon Hill Flagstone Pavers:
The upper and lower patio areas are graced with the timeless beauty of Unilock Beacon Hill flagstone pavers. These pavers not only enhance the aesthetics but also provide a durable and functional foundation for outdoor living. It’s a harmonious blend of elegance and purpose.
Nature’s Touch: The Final Flourish of Landscaping:
No backyard transformation is complete without a touch of nature’s artistry. The addition of carefully selected landscaping elements enhances the overall beauty of the space. Lush greens, vibrant blooms, and thoughtful placement of foliage bring life to every corner.
Illuminating Evenings: LED Lighting System:
As the day transitions into night, the magic doesn’t dim; it evolves. The installation of an LED lighting system around the patio and inside the pavilion creates an enchanting atmosphere. It’s a symphony of light and shadows, turning the backyard into a captivating stage for relaxation and celebration.
Conclusion: A Masterpiece Unveiled:
The journey from a mundane backyard to a captivating oasis is a testament to the power of vision, design, and execution. Every element of this transformation, from the Kodah wall to the LED lighting, showcases the artistry that can be achieved with careful planning and a touch of creativity. This backyard makeover is not just a physical transformation; it’s an invitation to experience the joy of outdoor living at its finest. It’s a reminder that the potential of your space is limited only by your imagination.
Imagine your change … and let Outdoor Innovations help you bring it to life! Contact us today to discuss your ideas for a backyard transformation!
Quality Landscaping Design from Pavilions to Fire Features
Outdoor Innovations Goal? To Never Come Back.
When you are considering adding new landscaping to your backyard, one important consideration, if you plan to live in your home for the long haul: “How long is my new landscaping design going to last?” When the project is done, will the hardscaping be uneven in a few years? Will my fire pit run season after season? Are my outdoor shelter structures going to hold up? These are all things to think about when selecting a contractor for landscaping design that you plan to work with.
At Outdoor Innovations, our goal is rather simple. We plan to “never come back” unless it is to visit! As your landscaping contractor, we plan to complete your landscaping project with the highest quality products and equally exceptional work. Your backyard retreat is meant to last the lifetime of your home with first rate products such as pavilions from Country Lane, or CROSSFIRE® Burners made from brass for our outdoor fire features. Let’s take a look at a recent project that shows you some of that great quality!
A Unique Outdoor Structure
In our latest project, we created a unique backyard retreat that will take this family from late summer into fall with a Country Lane custom 14’x 18′ A frame Vinyl pavilion and 16 x 16 Traditional Vinyl Pergola. Coupling versatility while fitting into a budget, Country Lane offers many accessories including:
Upgrading post sizes and shapes
Cupolas
EZShade curtains
Villas
Aside from its beauty, this piece is built to last. This shelter structure can withstand winds of up to 140 mph, and up to 45 pounds per square foot snow load. This means that this family can enjoy the outdoors with this lovely pavilion/pergola combo for years and years to come!
With Our Fire Features Brass Makes the Difference
We often hear from people who have old fire features that the parts have rusted or corroded. At Outdoor Innovations we work with Warming Trends, providing some of the newest technology available in fire features.
This project boasts Warming Trends 250,000 BTU 50 inch CROSSFIRE® Linear Brass Burner. This means that this fire feature will have a taller, more robust burning flame that closely resembles a natural wood burning fire. With parts made of brass that will not rust or corrode, this fire feature will provide beautiful warmth for this family, with a lifetime warranty because we are so confident in this technology!
Other High Quality Features for this Project
We really enjoyed this backyard landscaping project! In addition to the pavilion and pergola combination, and the top-notch fire pit, this landscaping project also included:
If you are considering creating a backyard oasis for your family, choose quality by choosing Outdoor Innovations. One of our main goals in completing your landscaping project is to do everything right the first time with longevity in mind. We want your family to enjoy your outdoor living area for years and years to come with the peace of mind that everything is made and constructed by our team to last.
Need landscaping ideas, or want to discuss your dream landscaping design? Contact us today!
8 Ideas for Your Outdoor Entertainment Area
Job Feature: A Rustic Outdoor Getaway Perfect for Entertaining
The landscape designers at Outdoor Innovations are at it again this summer, creating outdoor entertainment areas that change the way people do entertainment! One recent project that was just completed features 8 great ideas for your outdoor entertainment area, that may serve as inspiration for your backyard. Do you love the idea of settling in to a good movie…but under the stars? Perhaps the idea of enjoying a perfectly prepared meal al fresco makes you smile just thinking about it! Take a look at these amazing features, that make an outdoor entertainment area the ideal place to spend your time with family and friends.
Entertain in Comfort: Pavilions
The pavilion for this project is not only comfortable and rustic with a modern twist, but it is the ideal for entertaining. The A frame 16×20 vinyl pavilion features a Cinder color ceiling stain, a gorgeous ceiling fan, and outdoor heaters. With cozy seating surrounding the TV and gas fireplace, you can settle in with a good movie, or take in sporting events in style! Pavilions make a great addition to your outdoor entertainment area because they offer shelter and a bit of climate control allowing you to have a great time practically all year around!
Set the Mood: Gas Fireplaces
Take your pavilion to the next level with a gas fireplace or fire feature from Outdoor Innovations. Add style and improve the ambience of your outdoor entertainment area, and at the same time, extend the use of your space through the seasons. Gas fireplaces offer simplicity with the ease of turning the fire on and off effortlessly. This project features a natural stone gas fireplace. It is easy to imagine sitting curled up on the outdoor furniture with a plush blanket and hot cocoa in front of this fire in the fall, or ushering in spring with a bit more warmth while waiting for the summer months to arrive!
Chill Out: Outdoor Drop in Coolers
Do you hate opening and closing the back door, while letting out the air conditioning every time a guest wants a cold drink? Keep your beverages, condiments, and other food items chilled on ice just steps away for your convenience with drop in coolers! This pavilion has 2 drop in coolers on either side of the fireplace right within easy reach. Easy to keep clean for each use, you can keep the party going with little to no interruption, and never have to let the cool air out of your home from frequent trips inside.
Envy of the Neighborhood: Grilling Islands
Who does not love grilling out? Get the ultimate in outdoor cooking and grilling with a grilling station. This project features the works: A 36”gas grill, double burner, flat top grill, and a smoker! Any way you like your barbecue, this grilling island has it covered. Enjoy all your favorites: steak, kebabs, brats & dogs, corn on the cob and more. You will be the envy of the neighborhood with a set up like this. Get set for easy clean-up with hidden trash cans built right into the island too.
The Drinks Will Flow: Bar Islands
Including a bar island as part of your outdoor entertainment area not only provides additional attractive seating. It provides a place to keep the drinks flowing and the party in full swing. Whether you are having all your friends over for grilling and margaritas, or enjoying a romantic glass of wine while enjoying the soft lighting and fireplace, this entertainment area gives you both.
Multifunctional & Pretty: Patios
The brick patio for this project offers a multitude of purposes. Extra lounging room, additional dining space, and dare we say, a dance floor? Patios are multifunctional while also adding beauty to your outdoor entertainment area. The brick that makes up this patio brings extra dimension through its contrast with the stone used for the pavilion floor. Plenty of room for your extended family and your friends to enjoy while you take in the outdoors at home.
Your Own Private Retreat: Privacy Landscaping
The professional landscape designers at Outdoor Innovations created this outdoor entertainment area with privacy in mind. A privacy berm was built into the design that includes both luxurious evergreen bushes as well as a natural stone wall. When you have a gathering, having some privacy to be allowed to enjoy yourself is usually on the top of everyone’s wish list. Aside from privacy these additions help make your space personalized and comfortable, enhancing the overall design.
Bring the Night to Life: Outdoor LED Lighting
Entertaining is not just for the day time! Your outdoor entertainment area can transition from day to night with beautiful outdoor LED lighting. While adding security to your home, outdoor LED’s create subtle and comforting lighting all around your space. Energy saving and efficient, they can be set to turn on when you want them to. For this project lighting was placed around the landscaping and as an accent to the pavilion, so that this family can enjoy their new space any time they like!
Are You Ready for a New Outdoor Entertainment Area?
If you have been longing for a special entertaining space to enjoy with your family and friends, now is the time to get started. With a dream team of landscape designers, and installers, Outdoor Innovations can customize your backyard to your exact specifications. We encourage you to learn about our design process with includes consulting with you and producing a 3-D design to give you a full understanding of what your vision will look like. Contact Ken and Barbara today to learn more, and we will get right back to you!
Get more inspiration and ideas by watching videos on our YouTube channel. We think you will find some landscaping artistry that will get your imagination going!
Pergolas Pavilions & Gazebos: What is the Difference?
If you are looking to enhance your backyard experience this year, you may be considering a popular landscaping design option: a free-standing or attached outdoor structure. Pergolas, pavilions, and gazebos are all popular options. You want to make an informed decision about your outdoor living area, and choose the best option for you. What IS the difference between the three? At Outdoor Innovations, your Quad Cities landscaping designer, we can help you understand one from the other!
Pergolas, An Eye-Catching Choice
Pergolas are a truly attractive option to feature in your backyard, for your patio, or as part of your garden. Pergolas consist of support beams that are topped off by a grid pattern made of beams and rafters for a roof. The roof is often left open but can be covered to provide shade and protection for the elements. They can be either attached to your home as an extension of it, or stand alone as a backyard enhancement. You can do so much with Pergolas, they can be surrounded by, or even have garden and landscaping running through, or can be used as a seating area for eating or entertainment. The sky is the limit to this eye-catching option.
Pavilions, Strong, Sturdy, & Versatile
Looking for a real statement for your outdoor living adventures with your family? Get the benefits of protection from the elements with a strong and sturdy pavilion. Think of a pavilion like an open building, open on the sides, but with a roof on top. Pavilions invite your friends and family in to stay awhile! They can be used for a beautiful dining area, a walk up bar, an entertainment area with a TV and seating, and so much more! With many styles to choose from, you can find the perfect addition to your backyard landscape.
Gazebos, Useful & Beautiful
Gazebos are freestanding structures that are often hexagonal or octagonal in shape that have a roof. Often there is seating inside. They can also have shading such as latticework or can be screened to provide protection from the elements. Gazebos make a beautiful addition to a garden area, or fit in to your custom landscape design. Beautiful and inviting, these outdoor structures make a wonderful gathering space, or a romantic (at home!) getaway for two. Gazebos, like pergolas and pavilions can be custom designed to match your home’s aesthetic so they fit perfectly into your outdoor living concept.
Trust Outdoor Innovations for your Landscape Design Project
For your home in the Quad Cities, you can trust a local leader in landscape design, Outdoor Innovations. We have extensive experience in building pergolas, pavilions, and gazebos to incorporate into your backyard’s overall look and feel. We specialize in working closely with you to come up with a plan that you can visualize clearly before your project even begins. We offer many additional services as well such as hardscaping, poolscaping, and fire & water features. We encourage you to browse other projects that we have done, either in our blog, or on our YouTube channel for inspiration! We are also here to answer your landscape design questions. Do not hesitate to contact us regarding your ideas, we are here to help!
Beauty Built to Last: Pergolas and Pavilions
Add Beauty and Functionality that Lasts With Pavilions and Pergolas from Outdoor Innovations
The first thing that strikes you when you see pergolas and pavilions in someone’s backyard or outdoor living space is that it is a beautiful centerpiece that everyone can gather around. What may not be as obvious is the fact that when you have your pavilion or pergola built by the professionals at Outdoor Innovations, that beauty you see is built to last! Strength is the central component that our structures are built upon, and the result is a place for your family to enjoy for years to come.
Structures Built for Extreme Weather
In our latest video above, our owner Ken speak about some of the structural components that make up our latest pavilion build. In this, our last pavilion of 2021, you see that the construction supports:
Extreme snow loads: This pavilion can handle 40 pounds per square foot.
High winds are no match: Our final pavilion of 2021 can withstand wind speeds up to 125 miles per hour.
This can be seen in the 8×8 posts wrapped in red cedar, the braces and the joists, and throughout this solid design. This family will come out on the other side of winter each year with their outdoor living area ready to enjoy, and during spring storms will have no worries. This pavilion can withstand anything that Mother Nature can throw at it! You can view some of the photos below that feature examples of where this structure gets its strength:
Customize Your Pergolas and Pavilions to Fit Your Dream
This pavilion will feature a TV with entertainment area, outdoor grilling island, bar island, and more, all placed around a gorgeous stamped concrete pad. You too, can have the outdoor living area of your dreams. We can work with you to design your own customized getaway with features such as:
And of course, we can build a be a beautiful, strong, pavilion or pergola to gather around with your family. Contact our professional team today, we will work closely with you to create a plan, come up with a 3-D rendering of your design, and plan at time that is perfect for you to complete your project. There is no dream to big or too small, and we would love to work with you!
To learn more about Outdoor Innovations, see more examples of our work, learn tips and tricks for your outdoor areas and more, visit us on Facebook, or subscribe to our YouTube channel.
