Top 12+ Outdoor Features That Are Falling Out of Favor
Expansive Lawns
Lush, sprawling lawns used to symbolize the American dream, but recent years have seen a sharp decline in their popularity. According to a 2024 report from the National Association of Realtors, homeowners are shifting toward drought-tolerant and low-maintenance landscaping.
Water shortages and rising costs, especially across the western United States, are making grass lawns less practical. Many cities, like Las Vegas, have even passed ordinances limiting grass areas to conserve water.
Lawns also require fertilizers and pesticides, which can harm local ecosystems. Polls from 2023 show over 60% of homeowners now prefer native plant gardens.
As a result, traditional lawns are being replaced by wildflower meadows, gravel, or artificial turf.
Built-In Hot Tubs
Built-in hot tubs were once the ultimate backyard luxury, but demand has cooled off dramatically. Data from the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance in 2024 shows a 15% drop in new built-in hot tub installations compared to five years ago.
Maintenance costs, high energy usage, and concerns over water cleanliness have contributed to this decline. Health experts have also raised concerns about bacterial growth in infrequently cleaned tubs.
Portable, above-ground models are gaining more popularity for their flexibility and lower price points. Many homeowners now see built-in hot tubs as an eyesore or a liability.
The trend favors simpler, more eco-friendly outdoor relaxation options.
Ornate Fencing
Elaborate wrought iron and picket fences are falling out of fashion as homeowners lean toward open, natural borders. A 2023 survey by the American Society of Landscape Architects found that 47% of respondents preferred living fences, such as hedges or native shrubs.
Ornate fencing often requires expensive upkeep and repainting, which few people want to deal with anymore. There’s also a growing movement for wildlife-friendly yards, and solid fencing can block animal movement.
Privacy screens made of bamboo or recycled materials are now more desirable. Homeowners are choosing options that blend in with the environment rather than stand out.
Fire Pits and Fireplaces
Backyard fire features exploded in popularity during the pandemic, but the trend is reversing fast. Data from the National Fire Protection Association shows a 20% increase in fire-related accidents involving outdoor fire pits in 2023.
Many municipalities have tightened regulations on outdoor burning due to wildfire fears and air quality concerns. Insurance companies are now raising premiums for homes with outdoor fire features, making them less attractive.
Surveys indicate that only 28% of new homebuyers in 2024 are interested in built-in fire pits. Safer alternatives like LED “flame” features and portable heaters are taking center stage.
Extensive Decking
Expansive wooden decks once dominated American backyards, but they’re losing ground quickly. The rising cost of lumber and the increased awareness of deforestation have made homeowners reconsider these large projects, according to a 2024 HomeAdvisor report.
Decks also need regular sealing, staining, and repairs, making them a maintenance headache. Composite materials are gaining some favor, but even these are being downsized in favor of patios or small seating nooks.
Many people now see vast decks as wasted space. Instead, multi-use patios with flexible furniture are on the rise.
Large Water Features
Big ponds, fountains, and elaborate waterfalls are no longer in style. The Environmental Protection Agency reported in 2023 that outdoor water features can consume up to 1,000 gallons of water a week in dry climates.
This has led to concerns about sustainability, especially in drought-prone regions. Mosquito breeding and algae buildup are also common issues with stagnant water.
People now prefer smaller, recirculating fountains or birdbaths that use less water and electricity. The shift reflects a broader move toward eco-conscious landscaping.
Permanent Outdoor Kitchens
The dream of a sprawling outdoor kitchen is fading fast. The 2025 Outdoor Living Trends Report found that only 22% of homeowners plan to install built-in grills, sinks, or pizza ovens.
High installation costs, ongoing maintenance, and the need for weatherproofing have turned many off. Portable grills and modular kitchen units are now more appealing for their flexibility and lower cost.
Homeowners also report using their outdoor kitchens less frequently than expected, especially in regions with unpredictable weather. Simplicity and adaptability are now the top priorities for outdoor cooking.
Traditional Gazebos
Gazebos once added charm and shade to gardens, but their popularity has dropped sharply. The National Gardening Association saw a 30% decrease in gazebo sales between 2022 and 2024.
They often require significant upkeep and can quickly look dated if not maintained. Modern homeowners are choosing pergolas or retractable awnings, which provide similar benefits with less commitment.
Gazebos also pose accessibility issues for some users, with steps and narrow entrances. The preference is shifting toward more open, versatile outdoor structures.
Outdoor Carpet and Rugs
Once seen as a way to bring indoor style outside, outdoor rugs and carpets are losing favor due to mold and mildew concerns. The 2023 Consumer Product Safety Commission report highlighted a spike in complaints about moisture damage and allergen buildup.
Cleaning outdoor carpets is labor-intensive, and many materials break down under sun exposure. Homeowners are turning to hardscaping or quick-drying textiles instead.
There’s also a trend toward minimalism, with people favoring bare stone, tile, or wood. The shift is toward surfaces that are easier to maintain and longer-lasting.
In-Ground Trampolines
In-ground trampolines were marketed as safer alternatives to above-ground models, but injury statistics tell a different story. A 2024 study from the American Academy of Pediatrics found no significant reduction in accident rates, and in some cases, injuries were more severe due to the hard ground.
Maintenance can be tricky, with drainage issues leading to rust and mold. The initial installation is expensive, and repairs are cumbersome.
Many cities are now requiring permits for in-ground trampolines due to safety concerns. Families are moving toward portable, above-ground trampolines with safety nets, or skipping them altogether.
Elaborate Outdoor Lighting
Over-the-top landscape lighting has dimmed in popularity as homeowners focus on energy savings and light pollution. According to the International Dark-Sky Association, excessive exterior lighting disrupts both wildlife and human sleep patterns.
New regulations in many municipalities limit the brightness and spread of outdoor lights. Solar-powered, low-voltage options are replacing old-fashioned floodlights and string lights.
The aesthetic is shifting from “showcase” to subtle accent lighting. Homeowners are embracing a more natural nighttime environment.
Oversized Outdoor Furniture Sets
Bulky, matching patio furniture sets are being replaced by lighter, modular pieces. The 2024 Outdoor Furnishings Market Report notes a 25% decline in sales of large, coordinated sets.
People now prefer mix-and-match seating, which is easier to move and store. Oversized furniture often takes up too much space and weathers poorly, especially in areas with harsh climates.
There’s a growing demand for compact, stackable, or foldable options. The trend is toward flexibility and simplicity, letting homeowners easily adapt their space for different uses.
