Back to Nature W By Dianne M. Pogoda | Head of Research: Tricia Zach hen people can't or choose not to go on vacations, their exterior spaces take on added significance. Outdoor living is the answer when clients are itching to get out and get back to nature, according to the National Kitchen & Bath Association's exclusive 2021 Design Trends research. THE ART OF THE STAYCATION: With people spending more time at home - a trend that's expected to continue even after the pandemic has abated - 65% of pros say they've experienced an increase in backyard projects compared to pre-COVID times. And 76% say outdoor kitchens are the dominant project requested. 60% say they're converting or upgrading existing outdoor areas, and 40% are creating new exterior living space where none existed. HAVE A SEAT: Among respondents, 60% say the focus is in three areas: enhanced seating, outdoor kitchens, fireplace/fire pits. 55% say weather protection is critical as well. GARDEN TECH: 48% say integrated entertainment is an increasingly popular outdoor perk - which rises to 63% when designing for Millennials. Integrated lighting and cooling is cited by 39% of pros. Scan the QR code to learn more about the 2021 Design Trends study and other NKBA research reports included in the cost of NKBA membership. Above: Design by Reisa Pollard // Photo by Amanda Oster & Stephen Li