Why we're seeing more homeowners choose outdoor living spaces
Over the past few years, we've noticed a real shift in how our customers are thinking about their gardens. What used to be "nice weather only" spaces are becoming proper year-round outdoor rooms.
We often hear from potential customers that they feel like they're "paying for a garden we can only use three months of the year." It's a sentiment that really resonates.
It got us thinking about why this trend has taken off so dramatically, and what we're seeing from our side of the fence.
The "garden office" effect
The whole working-from-home shift has played a huge part. We've had countless enquiries for outdoor screens and wind barriers from people wanting to create garden office spaces. There's something about being "outside but protected" that beats staring at the same four walls all day.
"We've had enquiries about creating outdoor office spaces, with people wanting to add outdoor screens around existing pergolas for video calls. The appeal of having a 'hotel terrace' backdrop during video meetings is definitely part of the attraction."
Weather doesn't stop play anymore
Traditional British weather used to mean garden furniture got packed away by September. Now, with proper outdoor shading solutions, families are using their gardens well into autumn and starting again earlier in spring.
Fixed canopies with integrated LED lighting are becoming popular for exactly this reason—they extend the usable season well into autumn and allow for outdoor entertaining that would have been unthinkable before.
It's not just about the big spenders
Here's what's interesting: this isn't just wealthy families building expensive outdoor kitchens. We're seeing young couples in starter homes investing in retractable awnings, and retirees adding simple outdoor screens to extend their morning coffee time.
The common thread? Everyone's trying to get more value from the space they already have. With house prices what they are, extending your living space outdoors makes more financial sense than moving.
What we're installing more of
From our experience, the most popular additions are:
Retractable awnings
Perfect for flexibility. Customers love being able to adjust for different weather and times of day.
Outdoor screens and barriers
Great for creating wind protection without losing the "outdoor" feeling.
Pergolas with adjustable roofs
The ultimate in versatility. Sun protection when you need it, open sky when you don't.
The unexpected benefits
What customers often don't expect is how these installations affect family life. We've heard stories about teenagers actually wanting to spend time at home again, grandparents being able to enjoy the garden even when it's breezy, and families having proper conversations away from screens.
"We often hear that well-designed outdoor spaces become the new 'front room' - the place where everyone naturally gravitates when they get home."
Looking ahead
This trend doesn't seem to be slowing down. If anything, we're seeing more requests for integrated solutions - lighting, heating elements, even sound systems built into awning structures.
The way we see it, the British relationship with outdoor living is changing permanently. We're not waiting for perfect weather anymore; we're creating it ourselves.
Thinking about your own outdoor space?
If you're curious about what's possible with your garden, we'd love to have a chat. Every outdoor space is different, and we've probably solved a challenge similar to yours before.
Bulldog Blinds
Our family business has been helping homeowners in the area create beautiful, functional window treatments and outdoor spaces since we started. We love sharing what we've learned along the way.