Homeowners continue to improve outdoor spaces

More than half (54%) of US residents plan to purchase new furnishings and decor for their decks, yards, and patios this year. After two years of pandemic living that motivated many residents to invest in improving the spaces around their homes, there is significant interest in continuing to upgrade their outdoor living setting. The findings also confirm that consumers will spend an average of nine hours per week outdoors in the coming year, up from seven hours per week in 2022, says a study by Wakefield Research. In 2023, more than one-third (36%) will prioritize upgrading their outdoor lighting and more than one-quarter (27%) will add shade items including umbrellas, pergolas, and awnings, as well as décor including pillows, cushions, and rugs (26%). Not far behind are the desire to add firepits or fireplace features (26%), flooring (22%), seating/sofas (21%), water features (19%), and outdoor kitchens and bars (17%).