11 Arizona Patio Trends You’ll Want To Skip This Year
As temperatures climb in Arizona, many homeowners are updating their outdoor spaces for comfort and style. But not all patio trends are worth the investment in our unique desert climate. Before you renovate your outdoor oasis, check out these popular but problematic patio trends that desert dwellers might want to reconsider this year.
1. Water-Hungry Grass Lawns
Lush green lawns continue tempting Arizona homeowners despite our water scarcity issues. The maintenance demands are excessive in our climate, requiring thousands of gallons monthly just to stay green.
Consider drought-tolerant landscaping alternatives that capture the desert’s natural beauty without the guilt-inducing water bills.
2. Metal Furniture Without Shade
Sleek metal patio sets might look magazine-worthy, but they become scorching hazards during Arizona summers. Unprotected metal can reach temperatures exceeding 150°F in direct sunlight!
Your guests won’t appreciate third-degree burns from simply trying to enjoy your outdoor space.
3. Oversized Fire Features
Massive fire pits and towering outdoor fireplaces have become status symbols in backyard design. During our extended summer season, these expensive installations sit unused for months while still occupying valuable space.
Many neighborhoods also face strict fire restrictions during our driest months.
4. Dark-Colored Pavers
Black and deep charcoal pavers create a sophisticated look that’s gaining popularity. Unfortunately, these dark surfaces absorb tremendous heat, making your patio virtually unusable during daylight hours.
Walking barefoot becomes impossible, and the heat radiates well into evening hours.
5. Tropical Plant Obsession
Palm trees and tropical foliage might evoke vacation vibes, but they’re water hogs in our desert environment. These non-native plants require constant irrigation and special care to survive Arizona’s harsh conditions.
Many tropical species eventually succumb to sunburn or freeze damage despite your best efforts.
6. Glass Table Tops
Glass-topped tables create a light, airy aesthetic that’s trending in outdoor design. The reality? They become dangerous magnifying glasses under our intense sun, concentrating heat onto surfaces below.
They’re also prone to shattering during our notorious monsoon winds and haboobs.
7. Outdoor Rugs on Uncovered Patios
Colorful outdoor rugs instantly elevate patio spaces on social media. Without proper overhead protection, Arizona’s relentless sun fades these investments within weeks, while monsoon rains promote mold growth underneath.
The constant cycle of soaking and baking quickly destroys even premium materials.
8. Vinyl Furniture Covers
Protective furniture covers seem practical for dust storms and occasional rain. However, vinyl varieties create a greenhouse effect in our climate, trapping moisture and heat that can actually damage your furniture faster.
The vinyl itself often cracks after just one summer of intense UV exposure.
9. North-Facing Entertainment Areas
Creating entertainment spaces that face north might work elsewhere but misses Arizona’s spectacular sunset views. These areas also receive minimal winter sun when you actually want warmth.
The lack of natural light makes evening gatherings feel cold and uninviting during our pleasant winter months.
10. Enclosed Patio Rooms Without Ventilation
Arizona’s indoor-outdoor lifestyle has sparked interest in fully enclosed patio rooms. Without proper cross-ventilation and ceiling fans, these spaces become unusable greenhouses for much of the year.
The trapped heat can also damage furniture and electronics faster than outdoor exposure.
11. Wooden Pergolas Without Treatment
Untreated wooden pergolas offer rustic charm but quickly become weathering disasters in our climate. The intense sun causes rapid splitting and warping, while seasonal monsoon downpours promote rot and mold growth.
Many homeowners face complete replacement within just 2-3 years of installation.
