In Iowa, outdoor spaces have gone from “nice to have” to “must-have” — especially since 2020. Des Moines-area homeowners are investing more than ever in transforming their backyards into beautiful, functional, and value-adding extensions of the home. Whether it’s a multi-level deck in West Des Moines or a cozy covered patio in Waukee, outdoor living has become a top priority for families across Central Iowa.

Here’s what’s trending, what it costs, and how to ensure your investment pays off.

Why Outdoor Living Projects Are On the Rise

• More time spent at home: Remote work, staycations, and changing lifestyles mean families want more usable space.
• Entertaining made easy: Outdoor kitchens, fire pits, and dining zones allow you to host with ease.
• Health and wellness: Private backyards are now sanctuaries — for relaxing, exercising, or simply breathing fresh air.
• Curb appeal & resale value: A well-designed exterior creates a strong first impression and increases home desirability.

Top Outdoor Living Features in the Des Moines Market

1. Composite Decking
   Homeowners are ditching traditional wood in favor of low-maintenance composite decking (like Trex or TimberTech). Benefits include:

• No staining or sealing
• Fade and scratch resistance
• Long lifespan (25–30 years)

2. Covered Patios & Pergolas
   Rain or shine, covered spaces offer year-round functionality. Popular options include:

• Pitched roof extensions
• Cedar or aluminum pergolas
• Motorized retractable awnings

3. Outdoor Kitchens & Built-in Grills
   From simple grill stations to full-service kitchens, these upgrades create true outdoor entertaining hubs. Common features:

• Built-in gas grills
• Countertops (granite or concrete)
• Mini fridges and sinks

4. Fire Features
   Adding a fire pit or fireplace creates ambiance, extends seasonal use, and acts as a social centerpiece. Styles range from:

• Natural stone fire pits
• Gas fire tables
• Integrated fireplaces with seating walls

5. Smart Lighting & Audio
   Landscape lighting and weatherproof sound systems are must-haves. They allow homeowners to:

• Set the mood after dark
• Control lights from a phone
• Integrate with smart home platforms

6. Landscaping & Hardscaping
   Think beyond the deck. Curved paver patios, retaining walls, water features, and garden beds all boost beauty and function.

Local Cost Guide: Outdoor Living in Des Moines

• Basic deck or patio: $15,000–$30,000
• Midrange outdoor kitchen + seating: $30,000–$60,000
• Luxury backyard makeover: $75,000–$150,000+

Factors that affect pricing:

• Site access and grading
• Utilities (gas, electric, water)
• Materials (pavers vs. concrete, composite vs. wood)
• Features (kitchen, fire pit, pergola, lighting)

Return on Investment (ROI)

Outdoor living projects offer high lifestyle ROI — and solid resale value. According to the National Association of Realtors, exterior improvements like patios and decks recoup between 60–80% of their cost. In hot neighborhoods like Ankeny or Grimes, well-done outdoor upgrades can even push home sale prices higher than comps.

Real Project Snapshot: The Halvorsen Family in Norwalk

The Halvorsens invested $98,000 into a backyard transformation — including a covered patio with tongue-and-groove ceiling, outdoor kitchen with granite counters, gas fireplace, and LED lighting. Not only did it become their favorite place to host friends, it helped appraise their home at $110K above pre-remodel value.

Planning Tips for Outdoor Projects

• Start with how you’ll use the space: Entertaining? Relaxing? Cooking?
• Consider all seasons: Shade in summer, warmth in fall, drainage in spring
• Don’t skip permits: Most projects need city approval for decks, electrical, and gas
• Design for flow: Make sure the outdoor space complements the home’s interior

How THEA Supports Outdoor Living Remodels

• Planning worksheets to define priorities and scope
• Budget calculators for backyard projects
• Vetted outdoor contractors familiar with Iowa weather and code
• Free consultation sessions to explore your options

Final Takeaway

Des Moines homeowners aren’t just upgrading their homes — they’re expanding their lives. Outdoor living projects combine function, luxury, and long-term value in ways that pay off year-round. Whether you’re thinking of a simple patio or a full backyard oasis, starting with a smart plan — and the right partner — is the key.

Start with our Outdoor Living Planning Guide at HomeExpertsAlliance.org.