Inside the NKBA Kitchen & Bath Pro Hub, industry professionals connect and actively share their insights from the ever-evolving world of design. This includes lively discussions about current design trends. Recently, the topic was outdoor living.
The consensus: outdoor design has shifted from an optional luxury upgrade to a high-expectation standard. Clients now expect outdoor spaces to function as self-sufficient, year-round, indoor-equivalent living areas. However, professionals face significant hurdles in balancing these luxury visions with budget and structural realities.
Here is a key theme that emerged from the Hub discussions:
Top Client Demands & Features
Data shows a massive preference for culinary and covered spaces over other upgrades.
- The Ultimate Hub: Outdoor Kitchens/Grills are the undisputed #1 priority, driving 40% of standard feature demands and 43% of upgrade requests.
- The Baseline Expectations: Beyond kitchens, clients expect a comprehensive “Core Five” setup:
- Comfort: High-end seating that replicates indoor hospitality.
- Shelter: Covered/shaded structures for weather protection (15–16% of demand).
- Atmosphere: Layered, smart-integrated lighting (16% of demand).
- Multifunctionality: Single footprints that support dining, lounging, and entertaining at the same time.
source: K&B Pro Hub Quick Poll, May 2026
