Designing Outdoor Spaces That Feel Like Retreats

There’s a growing desire to transform outdoor areas into calming retreats—a quiet haven away from the demands of daily life. In 2025, this trend is more than a design preference; it’s a lifestyle movement. This article explores emerging trends and offers practical guidance on designing outdoor spaces that feel like retreats—helpful, actionable, and backed by expert sources.

Why Outdoor Retreat Design Is So Popular in 2025

A recent survey by Trex Company and Talker Research reveals that 41% of U.S. homeowners plan to convert their backyards into personal sanctuaries in 2025. These homeowners intend to spend nearly 12 hours a week outdoors—an increase of 22% from the previous year. Major upgrades include fire pits, enhanced privacy, and sustainability-focused materials.

At the same time, wellness and emotional design are influencing how we create spaces. Architectural features that support mental clarity—like scent diffusion, circadian lighting, and living walls—are becoming mainstream.

Together, these trends reveal a shift: outdoor areas are transforming into essential places for relaxation, wellness, and personal connection.

Top Trends in Outdoor Retreat Design

1. Wellness-Focused Landscaping

Homeowners are leaning into landscaping that supports well-being. Zen gardens, hammock zones, and lush greenery are becoming fixtures in outdoor retreat spaces.

Similarly, features like hot tubs, yoga platforms, and cold plunge tubs are integrating wellness routines into design.

2. Treehouses and Elevated Spaces

Treehouses are staging a remarkable comeback. Beyond childhood nostalgia, modern treehouses serve as guest suites, offices, or creative nooks. Designed for both comfort and minimal environmental impact, these elevated structures often use reclaimed timber and nature-friendly construction methods.

3. Maximalist and Colorful Gardens

2025 sees a swing away from minimalism toward bold, expressive gardens. Maximalist outdoor spaces layer textures, rich colors, and vibrant plantings. These spaces feel immersive and alive—offering both sensory depth and biodiversity.

4. Eco-Friendly & Sustainable Materials

Sustainability isn’t optional—it’s central to outdoor design. From composite decking and recycled pavers to native landscaping and solar lighting, eco-friendly materials now define many projects.

5. Biophilic Design Principles

Biophilic design bridges nature and built environments. It includes natural light, air, greenery, and organic textures to support mental well-being. Incorporating these elements into outdoor retreat design can reduce stress and enhance connection to nature.

6. Garden Bathtubs & Aesthetic Features

Subtle yet luxurious, garden bathtubs—often crafted from copper or antique materials—are enjoying popularity as eco-friendly features that marry wellness with style.

7. Mediterranean Sensory Gardens

The rise in “Mediterranean garden” searches signals renewed interest in sensory-rich outdoor rooms. Simple additions like aromatic herbs, stone fountains, and bright pottery foster a Mediterranean vibe without major renovation.

How to Design Outdoor Spaces That Feel Like Retreats

Here’s a practical step-by-step guide to bring these trends into your own backyard:

1: Clarify Your Retreat Vision

Choose a purpose: Do you want wellness, entertainment, or a personal sanctuary?
Define zones: Yoga areas, seating nooks, water features, or wildflower gardens?
Sketch ideas using a style board or digital tool to visualize your vision.

2: Prioritize Wellness

Add calming features: hammocks, fire pits, water fountains.
Install a hot tub, cold plunge, or serene wellness corner.
Use lighting and scent to boost mood and calm.

3: Incorporate Biophilic Elements

Maximize natural elements: plants, sunlight, natural textures.
Use materials that foster serenity—stone, wood, soft grasses.
Create multi-layered landscapes using color and texture.

4: Consider Elevated or Novel Structures

Build or install a small treehouse or platform for solitude or creativity.
Use pergolas or shaded nooks for midday relaxation.

5: Emphasize Sustainability

Choose eco-sensitive materials like recycled composites, solar lamps, and native plants
Design low-maintenance, climate-appropriate features to reduce water and upkeep.

6: Add Finishing Touches

Garden bathtubs and Mediterranean accents offer sensory luxury.
Use bold color contrasts, artistic planters, or lighting to enhance mood.

7: Budget and Phase the Project

Break down your plan into phases: foundation, structures, features, finishing.
Consider DIY for planting or simple builds; call in professionals for complex installations.
Track costs and schedule to avoid surprises.

Benefits of Outdoor Retreat Design

Improved Well-Being: Nature-rich environments and sensory elements benefit mental health.
Increased Outdoor Use: Intentional design boosts usage—a survey reported a 22% increase in outdoor time among homeowners.
Added Property Value: Retreat features like decks, lighting, and wellness zones can enhance resale appeal.
Eco Sensitivity: Sustainable design choices support both the planet and long-term savings.

Conclusion

Designing outdoor spaces that feel like retreats speaks to our evolving desire for sanctuary, wellness, and presence. By weaving trends like wellness zones, treehouses, biophilic design, and sustainability into your outdoor projects, you can create a personal haven that nourishes mind and body.

The future of outdoor design is about experience—not perfection. Let nature guide your creativity, and build a space that resonates with your needs and dreams