The Untraditional Living Room Trend Of 2026 That Embraces The Outdoors

It's pretty common knowledge that getting outside is one of the best things you can do for your mental and physical well-being. But it's not just direct contact with fresh air and sunshine that makes a difference, simply viewing the natural world has a soothing and healing effect — and who wouldn't want to take advantage of some free healthcare if you can get it! In all seriousness, though, the fact that nature is good for you may be old news, but recently people have been embracing ways to integrate the outside world into their homes in a somewhat untraditional way. Many people have been bringing the inside, outside, meaning that traditional living room furniture, like TVs, comfortable seating, and plush rugs, has been making its way out onto porches and decks, too. 

According to South View Design, a landscaping architectural company in Minnesota, "One of the biggest 2026 design trends is thinking of outdoor spaces as extensions of the home". Many other design experts agree that outdoor living spaces will see prominent upgrades in 2026. For example, landscaping design company, Fast Class Lawn Care states "Homeowners are no longer settling for a single-purpose patio; they want a dynamic layout that supports dining, lounging, entertainment, and even remote work." Depending on your climate, there's a chance that you could use your screened or covered porch year-round, but many places do experience some significant temperature changes that may make it obsolete at certain times of the year. While the best way to make your porch usable year-round would be to turn it into a sunroom (this is much easier with a screened-in porch, as you may just be able to replace screens with windows), there are many other great ideas to turn your porch into the perfect space. 

Though screens may be protective enough for most of spring, summer, and fall, you won't want to brave winter winds while watching Wheel of Fortune, so you might want to consider installing stormproof windows. In order to hold as much heat as possible, you will want to be sure that you are sealing doors, windows, and anywhere else that cold air could slip in. The good news is that there are quite a few tricks to keep your outdoor space warmer as temperatures cool. If you want to keep the space more porch-like than room-like, avoid adding any permanent solutions and opt for something like vinyl covering instead of windows. A stove or fireplace is another excellent way to warm your space without increasing your electric bill. Plus, it adds a charm and coziness that warms the space visually as well.

If you want an extra luxurious investment, you could also have heated flooring installed. Not only will this keep the floor warm on your feet, but since heat rises, it can also help to keep the space at a nice balmy temperature. Before you commit, however, it's best to inform yourself on what you can expect when installing heated patio flooring. The floor rug that you choose can also help to warm up the space. Instead of choosing a plastic outdoor rug, you may wish to opt for something a bit cozier — a washable option is best, especially if it is approved for both indoor and outdoor use. 

Making your outdoor space feel as comfortable as the indoors is not just about regulating temperature; you also want to integrate the comforts of home. This means that you want to add furniture that is cushy, comfy, and might even be found in a traditional living room. That said, if you are going to stick with a standard cushioned couch, also make sure that it is adequately protected from the elements — so if there is rain on the forecast, don't forget to close up your windows or screens, and maybe think about investing in waterproof furniture covers. 

It's not just furniture that can make a space feel homey, especially if you intend to make this your primary relaxation and/or entertainment space. For this, you'll want to add everything that you would traditionally keep in your living room — for most people, that means a TV, perhaps a gaming system, and if you have most of your home hooked up to a smart sound system, don't forget to install it outside as well. If your intention is to really commune with nature, however, you may wish to keep technology to a minimum. To keep digital entertainment an option, you may wish to ditch your TV for a projector and create a dreamy outdoor movie experience in the comfort of your own surroundings.