Latest News

Make the most of your outdoor living space this summer

July 21, 2021

This past year priorities have shifted on what features buyers are seeking when purchasing a new home.  According to an online poll, 40 percent of respondents have rethought the features they hope to find in their next home.  One of the most sought-after inclusions is ample outdoor living space. 

Norfolk Homes has always recognized the appeal of outdoor spaces, which is why we have provided options for decks, sunrooms, patios and screened in porches for each of our floor plans. Read on for some tips on ways to make the most of your outdoor living space this summer. 

Create a space to share meals, drinks and stories

Nothing says summer quite like a backyard barbecue. Whether you have the full setup of an outdoor grill and prep space or are supporting your favorite local restaurants with a carry-out meal, an outdoor living space is the perfect spot to host meals with friends and family this summer. 

Prepare your Norfolk Homes deck with an outdoor dining set—and if your space isn’t covered, make sure you purchase an umbrella so you can stay safely out of the sun during meals. A firepit is also a great addition to your outdoor living area providing  ambiance and warmth on cooler Michigan evenings.

Take up gardening or other outdoor hobbies

Even if you don’t have time off from work or school, summer is an ideal time to take up the outdoor hobbies you’ve been thinking about. Gardening has gained significant popularity  and there’s so many possibilities for homeowners to choose from. Some beginner-friendly plants to include in your garden are: summer squash, tomatoes, lettuce and flowers like marigolds, lavender and daffodils. Not wanting to go through the hassle of digging or building raised flower beds? Start an herb garden from the comfort of your front or back patio in a small planter with enough space for the roots to flourish. Basil, mint, oregano, cilantro and parsley are the easiest herbs to grow and are sure to add a fresh and flavorful touch to your next meal. 

Help your kids stay active this summer

While we always encourage residents to get out in their communities  utilizing any amenities offered or visiting city and county parks. Set up backyard activities for the kids to keep them engaged and active in your own backyard.  

Playgrounds come in all shapes and sizes, so it’s really up to the homeowners to decide what works best for your family. Wood or plastic? Slide or climbing wall? Swings or monkey bars? It’s your choice. 

Help keep your kids and their friends cool by offering water activities in the backyard, front yard or even driveway. Kiddie pools, slip-n-slides, water balloon fights or a simple sprinkler for them to run through are great ways to get out their energy on those hotter days. 

If your child is into sports, consider getting them yard-appropriate accessories for them to practice with—like a mini soccer goal or batting net for baseball, softball and even golf. Yard games, including horseshoes, ladder golf and cornhole, can keep both kids and adults entertained for hours during the summertime. 

Make memories with friends and family 

If your current house lacks the outdoor living space you need it might be time to find a new home.  Norfolk Homes is building high-quality homes with ample outdoor living spaces in some of the most sought-after towns in the Greater Ann Arbor area. We have over 25 years of experience creating communities that people love, and we can’t wait for you to find exactly what you’re looking for in a home. 

Browse our inventory of quick move-in homes which can save you months off the standard build time or review all of Norfolk’s  new-construction communities to have your home built from the ground up and completed before next summer rolls around.