Steelers Fans Drawing Inspiration From Outdoor Living Spaces In Pennsylvania

In 2019, the pandemic hit the world and changed how everyone lives, especially for Pittsburgh Steelers fans going to games. Once the panic was over, people wanted to be outside, especially with a group of people, and were spurred on to renovate. 

Across the whole state of Pennsylvania, extending living spaces became a trend that homeowners eagerly embraced as they had spent too much time isolated in their houses and needed a place to go out. Now they all want an outdoor living space that would work better if ever faced with a pandemic again.

The loss of connectivity during the pandemic changed people's thinking, and there was more appreciation for nature and open spaces when hanging out with their bubbles. 

In Pennsylvania’s mix of urban and rural settings, extending living spaces to beautiful decks with mixed materials, multi-levels paired with ambient lighting can add curb appeal to your home and give you a more tranquil environment for your well-being.

Popular Four-Season Deck Designs

In Pennsylvania, where all four seasons can bring forth vastly different conditions, you might want to make your deck or outside space appropriate for each weather change, so that it lasts you a long time. 

So here are a few things you should think about before committing:

• - Sunroom with insulation for use in the cold months

• - Screened-in Deck with Removable Windows for the warmer months.

• - Folding doors around the deck to keep the warm in and the cold out.

• - Pergolas and a fireplace to heat the area outside when the weather changes.

Depending on your needs and wants, you can contact a deck builder Lancaster residents would use to discuss what kind of materials would be best for your outdoor living area. They would be privy to the kinds of materials that would do best for your plan. 

The Wonder of Composite Decking

Composite decking is eco-friendly and one of the most durable materials available. Made from a blend of recycled plastics and wood fibres, composite decking prevents plastic waste while offering a splinter-free, fade-resistant surface.

Capped composite is also eco-friendly; it is the same as composite decking but has a polymer shell (cap) that encases the core. This makes it a little more durable, with reduced fading and stain resistance. 

The added features make this one of the most popular materials, as there is no yearly maintenance like oiling, painting, sealing, or staining.

Grow Your Own

If you want to see if you have a green thumb, your deck could include a ‘’living wall’ where you can plant a few vegetables between the deck boards. Just be sure you prepare the deck for the added moisture, but you could even have fresh carrots or lettuce in the winter. 

You can also enhance this option with the right lighting.

Lighting

Adding low-energy grow lights and solar light options can add dramatic lighting and ambiance to sections of the deck. Low-energy lights, together with solar deck lights, can turn the deck into an energy-efficient, yet beautiful outdoor oasis.

Comfort and Community

Connections are important for the feeling of community and bring a sense of safety. Inviting neighbors to share your home and have a chat can change a person's day, sometimes life!

A space that is welcoming and comfortable will encourage people to come and look and linger. 

• - Seating types: Benches, movable chairs, hammocks, or picnic tables will accommodate different group sizes and activities.

• - Different zones: A fire pit for evening chats, a small lawn for games and picnics, or a sheltered pergola for shade.

• - A place for everyone: Ensure that pathways are smooth and any decks or patios are accessible for all to enjoy the fun as well. 

No matter what kind of outdoor living space you create or where you are in Pennsylvania, be sure to take all regional factors such as the view, space available, weather patterns, and the aesthetic of the surrounding areas.

For instance, Pittsburgh (southwest PA) is a more urban environment, while Lancaster (southeast PA) is more rural, so the size of the decking might be more multi-level in Pittsburgh as there’s less space, etc.

 Play and Learning For Everyone

Spending time in outdoor spaces can ignite the desire for discovery and learning for children (of course), but also for the young at heart.

• - Build insect hotels, butterfly gardens, or birdhouses to attract wildlife and provide learning opportunities.

• - Create a communal garden bed where neighbors or friends can share the joy of growing food or flowers together.

• - Set up DIY workshops for crafts or gardening, turning your space into a seasonal hub of creativity.

Conclusion

The pandemic reshaped our lives, inspiring a renewed appreciation for outdoor living spaces that blend functionality, beauty, and community. Homeowners now seek versatile designs – like four-season decks, composite materials, and energy-efficient lighting – to create tranquil yet social environments. Whether through sustainable gardening, accessible seating, or interactive learning spaces, these outdoor extensions foster connection, well-being, and adaptability for any future challenges.

By tailoring designs to regional needs – from urban Pittsburgh to rural Lancaster – these spaces not only enhance curb appeal but also enrich lives, proving that the best rooms in a home might just be outside.