Research sheds light on outfitting outdoor rooms

Sunday, 24 June 2007

Stylish outdoor rooms are becoming more important to homeowners, according to the latest Weber Outdoor Room Tracking Study.

In Weber’s first study, released in 2003, 38 percent of respondents said the design of their outdoor room was just as important as rooms inside the home. In the latest study, conducted in 2006, 49 percent gave outdoor rooms equal status. Spending on outdoor rooms is also on the rise. The average amount spent outfitting these areas rose from $5,400 in 2003 to $10,100 in 2006.

Outdoor dining components and barbecue grills still are the top products for outdoor rooms. Almost half of respondents (48 percent) have “other lighting” in outdoor rooms. Outside stereo system ownership is on the rise: 42 percent in 2006, compared to 38 percent in 2003. Ownership of outdoor televisions rose to 15 percent, compared to 9 percent in 2003.

Popularity of outdoor fireplaces is also soaring. Fireplace ownership doubled from 16 percent in 2003 to 32 percent in 2006. The majority of fireplace owners (78 percent) believe it adds value to their outdoor space.