Some home improvements are simply worth a larger investment to achieve outstanding results. The extra investment ensures optimum returns in value, beauty, and livability. Indoors, kitchens and baths warrant that extra attention. Outdoors, decks are the pinnacle of great home improvements.

Kitchen or bath improvements must mesh with the quality and decor of the rest of a home’s interior. However, it’s perfectly OK to have an over-the-top outdoor space ─ even if you don’t have what would be considered a “luxury home.” Try these must-have upgrades to achieve the luxury outdoor environment that you desire:

Cable Railings

Upgrading your deck’s railing from traditional wood to something beautiful and exotic is an easy and impactful way to improve its appearance. While some alternative railing types, such as glass or metal, come with their own set of issues, cable railing stands apart for beauty, versatility, and durability.

Cable railing provides safety and a refined appearance without obstructing the view off the deck. Choose an option like Ultra-tec Cable Railing, made in America using the most corrosion-resistant stainless steel available, and you’ll also have the benefit of avoiding one of the few concerns about cable railing: visible hardware. Ultra-tec’s exclusive Invisiware hardware hides cable connections inside end posts, so turnbuckles and fittings need never detract from your view.

Built-in Fire Pit

While a plethora of portable fire pits are commercially available for adding ambiance with a balance of safety, nothing beats a built-in fire pit. Whether you crave the atmosphere and authenticity of a wood-burning feature or the convenience of gas, when you opt for a built-in fire pit the element becomes a fluidly integral part of the outdoor design. Fire pits can add warmth to your deck and to your heart by creating family memories (i.e. marshmallow roasting, story-telling, etc.).

Hot Tub (or other water feature)

A hot tub is the pinnacle of luxury and relaxation! In fact, 77% of hot tub owners say their hot tub is one of the few things that truly transports them away from day-to-day stresses, according to a survey by the Association of Pool & Spa Professionals.

Options range from intimately-sized spas that seat just a couple to grand hot tubs that can host a half dozen people or more. While built-in hot tubs impart a refined, luxurious look to a deck, portable models can go with you should you ever relocate. Consult a spa professional for help in determining the size and type that’s right for your space.

Outdoor Kitchens

Grills and backyards go together like cookies and milk, but take your outdoor cooking to the next level with an outdoor kitchen. Outdoor kitchens incorporate cooking facilities such as gas or charcoal grills, burners, and even pizza ovens; but also wet bars, sinks, and prep areas. Virtually any amenity you would find in a top-quality kitchen can be featured in an outdoor cooking area and become the focal point of outdoor entertaining.

Stone Patio

Interlocking concrete paving stones fit any outdoor landscape style, from classic to contemporary. Pavers are easy to install, come in many styles and colors, and require little to no maintenance. Some pavers, like Slatestone from Willow Creek Paving Stones, feature a surface texture that resembles natural stone.

Lighting

A variety of lighting options for outdoor spaces exist, and it’s a good idea to include lighting design in your landscaping plans for both safety and aesthetics, says O’Donahue. Low-voltage LED uplights along walls and structures and downlights along pathways and walkways are popular. “Lighting can be installed within retaining walls, under capstones, and among paving stone pathways and patios,” says O’Donahue. Even a simple string of lights around a patio or deck railing adds a warm ambience to evenings.

Layered Levels

If backyard space permits, consider adding levels to your deck. Layering deck levels adds visual appeal and interest, and also allows you to turn the outdoor “room” into an outdoor house. Consider separate seating and cooking areas, create greater privacy for a hot tub, and maximize available space. Multiple layers or spaced zones can allow family members to enjoy their preferred elements; for example, teenagers may gather around the fire pit, while dad cooks in the kitchen.

Whether your home is modest or majestic, your deck and outdoor living space can be a showcase of style, luxury, and fun; and be an investment that pays off with increased value and enjoyment.

─ Courtesy of BrandPoint