A new deck, or an upgrade to an existing one, is consistently one of the highest ROI outdoor projects. Outdoor spaces are no longer just for weekend barbecues — they're extensions of the home, places to relax, entertain, and connect. And when designed well, they can significantly increase your home's value.

Designing an outdoor space that thoughtfully incorporates how families are using their decks and patios will get your highest return on investment (ROI).

Include these must-have elements in your outdoor space design for the biggest ROI:

1. Three or Four-Season Space

Want the ultimate in flexible outdoor living? Enclose part of your patio or deck with glass walls to create a space that can be used three or even four seasons a year. These rooms provide shelter from wind, weather, bugs, and temperature swings — all while maintaining outdoor views and access to nature. Retractable glass panels are the best choice that can be fully opened to enjoy the summer breeze or closed during a blizzard but enjoyed in all the same comforts.

ROI Advantage: Buyers love the versatility of a space that offers protection yet maintains the connection to the outdoors. Bonus points for built-in infrared heaters, ceiling fans, or retractable window shade systems. 

ROI: luxury 4-Season spaces with integrated healing/cooling tend to yield 50-80%
(source: sohnne.com) 

2. Outdoor Kitchen

Outdoor kitchens are a luxury upgrade that also provide excellent ROI, especially in areas with warm or seasonal climates. Outdoor kitchens with the highest ROI feature more than just a grill, maximize usability with built-in high-end grills, smokers, griddles, storage, refrigeration, bar sinks, and even pizza ovens make your home more appealing for entertaining and resale.

When planning an outdoor kitchen for your outdoor space, also consider places for extra seating, counter space for food prep, pass through windows, and dumbwaiters for multiple-level decks!

Pro ROI Move: Keep it close to the house to reduce plumbing and electrical costs. 

ROI: Expect a 55-200% return depending on the quality of materials.
(source: Revive Real Estate)  

3. Fire Features

Fire features are a cozy, high-impact addition that invite year-round use and offer a strong emotional appeal to potential buyers. A beautiful built-in fire pit, custom stone fireplace, or one of our trademark custom fire rails add warmth, ambiance, and value.

Pro ROI Benefit: According to the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) and National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP), consumers give fire features a perfect 10 out of 10 "Joy Score", which measures satisfaction with completed projects. These are highly desirable features for resale.

ROI: expect a 67-80% return on investment
(source: homelight.com) 

4. Pergola or Covered Patio/Deck

A shaded structure like an automated pergola, gazebo, or covered patio/deck increases usability and comfort, especially during hot summer months. Bonus points if it includes lighting, fans, or retractable shade screens.

According to a National Association of Realtors report, homeowners can recoup more than 100% of the cost for outdoor living upgrades like pergolas and patio covers at resale, especially in high-demand regions (NAR via Ultra Patios).

ROI Benefit: 75% of buyers want a covered outdoor space according to stuccco.com.  It creates an "outdoor room" feel that buyers love — and appraisers notice. 

ROI: A well-built pergola typically delivers an ROI of 50-80% on the cost of the project, depending on the quality, market, and region. In outdoor-focused areas (like here in Colorado), the return can be even higher, sometimes over 100%. 

5. Wellness/Recreation Spaces

One of the top trends in luxury outdoor design is the addition of wellness and recreation spaces — customized areas designed to support health, relaxation, and entertainment right at home. These can range from swim spas and cold plunge tubs, to golf simulators, infrared saunas, yoga decks, or even Pilates studios — all designed to blend beautifully with the outdoors.

Why It Pays Off
Today's homeowners are prioritizing self-care and wellness more than ever, and having a dedicated space for exercise or relaxation is a highly desirable feature. Especially in high-end markets, these spaces aren't just nice to have — they're expected.


ROI: While ROI can vary based on the feature and location, wellness additions that are well-integrated with the overall landscape and home design can yield returns of 50–70%, and even more in lifestyle value.
(source: rentredi.com)  

6. Exterior Lighting

Strategic outdoor lighting adds safety, drama, and style. From lit railings, path lights, and uplights to string lights and sconces, lighting makes your space usable after dark and highlights your home's best features.


ROI: outdoor lighting can increase your home's resale value by 5-10%. Expect up to recoup up to 70% of the project cost.(source: National Association of Realtors)  

Tips to Maximize Luxury ROI

  1. Connect the addition architecturally: Use matching roofline, siding, and foundation to make the space feel like part of the home.
  2. Use premium systems: Insulated framed glass, infrared built-in heating, mini-split HVAC, and retractable glass walls or screens.
  3. High-end structural materials: Steel framing instead of wood provides a maintenance-free lifespan for your outdoor space.
  4. Work with specialized contractors: Seek firms experienced in luxury outdoor space design and construction who can ensure quality and permit compliance

Final Thoughts

When considering outdoor upgrades, balance beauty, function, and long-term durability. Focus on quality materials, timeless design, and thoughtful integration with your home's architecture. Whether you're staying put or getting ready to sell, these outdoor projects will pay off in enjoyment and in value. 

Ready to Transform Your Backyard?

If you're dreaming of transforming your outdoor space, we'd love to help. Schedule a complimentary consultation today and let's create something that's both stunning and smart for your ROI.

👉 Schedule your free consultation with our expert design team today 

About Masterpiece Outdoorliving

 Garth Hystad has become the premier outdoor living designer of his time. With over 40 years of experience, his innovative and unique designs display his creativity from coast to coast. Many of his greatest designs have been featured on the popular hit tv show, Mega Decks, which premiered on the DIY Network.

His love and vision for making the outdoors become an accessible and beloved part of everyday living for Coloradans has led to two incredibly successful businesses. His proudest moment has been mentoring and getting to work alongside his son, Brandon Hystad, at Masterpiece Outdoorliving.