Making the Most of Outdoor Spaces This Summer 

Thoughtfully designed outdoor living areas allow homeowners to extend their daily routines and leisure activities beyond the walls of the home, making the most of long summer evenings. These spaces don’t need to be extravagant, but they do benefit from intention: the right materials, layout, and sightlines can transform a backyard into a retreat. Whatever your outdoor priorities – quiet mornings, family barbecues, or evening fires – there’s potential to create spaces that elevate both daily life and seasonal rhythms. With the right planning, even a small backyard can become an essential part of your home.

Here are a few recent projects that show how different styles and needs can shape outdoor living in New England:

Residence on Melrose

This modern extension is a perfect example of seamless indoor-outdoor living. A minimalist Bluestone patio, paired with sleek furniture and vertical plantings, creates a private outdoor lounge zone. The dark exterior of the house contrasts beautifully with the greenery, offering a calm and sophisticated place to relax or entertain. It’s a great reminder that you don’t need an overabundance of items to make your space feel like an escape when designed with clarity and focus.

Lake House in Freedom

This lakeside home makes the most of its natural surroundings. A circular stone patio with a fire pit invites year-round use, while the wraparound porch provides a covered space to enjoy views regardless of the weather. With the main structure directly on the water, complete with uninterrupted lake views, this setup is perfect for gatherings with family or friends. Layered outdoor zones enable a home to adapt to the time of day, weather conditions, and various types of gatherings.

Residence in Mashpee

This classic New England coastal home pairs traditional architecture with a bright, resort-style patio. The pool and lounge areas are framed by crisp white umbrellas, flowering borders, and a spacious bluestone terrace. The symmetry of the home’s rear façade mirrors the balance and order of the landscaping, showing how outdoor design can complement architectural intent. It’s ideal for summer entertaining or simply soaking up the sun with a book.