EXCEPTIONAL EXPERIENCES

Exceptional Outdoor EXPERIENCES

THE STONE MAN DETAILS 2022’S HOTTEST OUTDOOR LIVING TRENDS.

WRITTEN BY BRANDY WOODS SNOW

As the weather warms and Covid-related restrictions begin to ease, people are looking to reconnect with friends and family in a place safe for entertaining where they can disconnect from technology and stress and tune in to the outdoors.

Alan Lochridge, owner of The Stone Man, has seen a recent uptick in the construction and installation of covered outdoor areas, fireplaces, and kitchens in many of Charlotte’s best neighborhoods. “Our company inherently understands the benefits of spending quality time with loved ones, and we help our clients fully utilize their outdoor spaces to gather with family and friends,” Lochridge says. “With a keen eye to detail and by staying abreast of the current trends, we transform natural spaces into exceptional outdoor experiences.”

Hardscape project trends in 2022 are focused on creating tranquil and comfortable outdoor living spaces, providing the utmost in sustainability, functionality, and year-long accessibility. Aesthetically, trends are leaning toward natural earth tones, although cool, soothing grays remain a popular choice. Monochromatic color schemes in stone selections and larger square or rectangular cuts create a modern, streamlined look.

Fire pits and fire troughs are in high demand, with gas-burning options outpacing traditional ones. These fire features lend a coziness to outdoor spaces while also serving as a focal point in the comprehensive design, enticing guests to gather and enjoy extended seasons on the patio.

Covered structures and outdoor kitchens remain popular choices for homeowners looking to expand and enhance the livable square footage of their homes. Whether installing a pergola, a cabana, a porch, or a patio, covered structures as part of a total backyard makeover add definition and privacy to the space. They also provide protection from the elements, significantly expanding the functionality and accessibility to outdoor living despite fluctuations in temperature or weather. Likewise, climate control options, such as heaters and fans, are readily available for covered structures, allowing families to enjoy these outdoor spaces year-round.

Outdoor kitchens, varying in size from simple grill areas to fully functional and outfitted cooking hubs with stainless grills, pizza ovens, refrigerators, and sinks, allow homeowners to customize their culinary experiences and entertaining options to best suit their needs. Natural stone caps are trending, replacing more traditional granite countertops, and integrated seating bars provide guests ample space to sit, eat, and congregate in the natural serenity of the outdoors.

When it comes to return on investment, outdoor home improvements are second only to kitchen and bath remodels, and homeowners in the current environment are eager to invest, spending anywhere from 10 to 20 percent of their home value on outdoor living projects. Real estate trends prove that homes sell faster when outdoor living is done well. Owners can expect to recoup at least 70 percent of their investment on firepits, and expertly crafted, fully functional outdoor kitchens can significantly increase overall home values.

“Clearly, outdoor living renovations are more than an investment in the home—they are also an investment in the future and in the homeowner’s lifestyle,” Lochridge says. “This year’s biggest trends are all about maximizing and modernizing outdoor spaces.” u

“WE TRANSFORM NATURAL SPACES INTO EXCEPTIONAL OUTDOOR EXPERIENCES.”

—ALAN LOCHRIDGE

For more information, contact THE STONE MAN at 704-616-7948 or visit STONEMANROCKS.COM.

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