I
f your home's living space feels cramped, it might be time to expand into the great outdoors. Kristen Knouft's Wayne home renovation in 2020 is a prime example of this trend. Her backyard has become an extension of her indoor space, complete with a covered patio, dining area for eight, lounge space with a TV and fireplace, and ceiling heaters that allow her family to enjoy it year-round.

    Homeowners across the country are following suit, investing in their outdoor spaces to make them comfortable and usable. A home design specialist notes that this shift is driven by people wanting to create seamless transitions between indoors and outdoors.

    In our region, new listings for homes were up slightly in June compared to last year, bucking national trends. The Philly metro area saw a 4% increase in median home sales price, reaching a record high of $416,000. However, this growth is the slowest pace in two years.

    As the market continues to evolve, homeowners are looking for ways to make their outdoor spaces shine. From cozy patios to art-filled apartments, we're highlighting some of the most inspiring projects and trends in our area.

    If you have an outdoor project or tip to share, email me! I'd love to hear from you and feature your story in a future edition.

    In other news, a developer is planning an 81-unit apartment building in Northwest Philly, while Valley Forge National Historical Park is searching for a new tenant for its historic mansion. The Jersey Shore towns are facing a setback as they won't receive federal funding for beach replenishments this year.

    Stay tuned for more updates on the local market and home design trends. And don't forget to check out our special section in Sunday's Inquirer, featuring gardening guides, before-and-after looks at outdoor design projects, and interior designers' tips for making your home trendy and timeless.