Homeowners are building backyards for living rather than listing. The 2026 U.S. Houzz Outdoor Trends Study, a survey of 1,191 homeowners, found that 25% renovated to make their spaces more accommodating, up 3 percentage points from 2024. Only 15% cited resale value, down 3 points, and the share saying they finally had the time (24%) also fell 3 points. Deteriorated or broken outdoor elements remained the top trigger at 41%.
Lounging is the main event. A whopping 83% of renovated outdoor spaces include a lounge or seating area, and 71% have a sofa or lounge chairs. The party doesn’t have to end at sunset, with 66% of lounge areas featuring outdoor lighting, and 55% have a coffee or side table within reach.
As projects grow, so does the call for backup. About 71% of homeowners hired at least one professional, a new high and up from 65% in 2024. Landscape specialists were the most frequently hired (26%, up 5 points), followed by stone, paver or concrete specialists (20%), general contractors (17%) and landscape architects or designers (15%). The share hiring a design-build firm rose 3 points to 5%.
The curb is getting a makeover, too. Preference for beams on home exteriors jumped 24 points to 43%, the biggest shift in exterior accents. Trim remains the most popular accent (69%) despite a 10-point drop since 2024.
