9 Amazing Outdoor Spaces to Get You Pumped for Summer

We’ve officially made it through the May long weekend, and that means summer is right around the corner. But unfortunately, we still have a month to wait. So, to help tide us over until the season officially begins, we’re looking at some incredible patios, decks and terraces from the WL archives. Come outside and join us, won’t you?

Throwing Shade

Golidlocks would probably love this off-grid cabin near Desolation Sound. Architect Laura Killam took special care to ensure that every space—including the outdoor ones—would always be just right. “We observed that it gets hotter high on the bluff, so we shifted plans from our original blueprint to create areas of respite,” she says of the summer house.

With a roof clad in rough-sawn cedar boards, the patio provides a shady spot during hot afternoons and also captures the warm evening sun. See more of this dreamy island retreat.

Hide Away

Designer Jeff Liu and his partner Val Giang finished renovating their Vancouver condo right before COVID—giving them a private oasis to ride out the lockdown in. The 500-square-foot patio has space for both lounging and dining. Talk about a silver lining! Check out the rest of this renovation project.

Happy Accident

Former NHL star Trevor Linden’s home may have two massive decks—but it’s the quirky upper roof garden, complete with Paola Lenti Shito chairs, that has captured our hearts. “We couldn’t change [the upstairs layout], but that detail became such a blessing,” says Linden. “The big sliding doors open up and pocket into one wall… it’s such a cool space.” Tour this Evoke ID-designed home.

Beach House

If you love hosting in the summer, seamlessly connecting your indoor and outdoor spaces is essential. So, take a cue from this Karly MacLeod-designed home in Port Moody. Folding NanaWalls allow guests to easily top up their drinks at the downstairs bar; meanwhile, the firepit, hanging wicker pendants and rug give the patio a cozy, Hamptons aesthetic. See more of this beach-inspired home.

Wide Open

Speaking of indoor-outdoor living! This West Vancouver home takes the concept to a whole new level. Its glass walls give way to an extensive covered area off the house’s main level. “Putting the dining room at the front corner where the walls open up meant we didn’t have to duplicate a dining room outside,” says Lisa Bovell, one of the principals of McLeod Bovell Modern Houses.

Plus, it lends a touch of drama. “As you stand in the dining area looking out, there’s a point of confusion,” adds co-principle Matt McLeod. “Where were the walls?” Peek inside the Container House.

Narrow Escape

The team at Falken Reynolds also knows how to bring the indoors out. “We wanted it to feel like an extension of the inside,” says Chad Falkenberg of this skinny patio. And they succeeded, thanks in large part to smooth yellow-cedar plank decking that echoes the modern interior.

But that’s not even the best part. We love that, despite its small size, there’s still plenty of room for the homeowners and their guests to soak up the sun. People can relax on the sofa or perch on the low concrete surrounding wall. Find out how to get this look at home.

Blissful Balcony

Imagine drinking your morning coffee on this deck. Architect Jeremey Sturgess designed the home to become narrower and more intimate the further you go inside—and it culminates in the main bedroom, which then opens up to a terrace overlooking the Naramata Creek. Explore the rest of this gorgeous Okanagan property.

Front Runner

Who said outdoor spaces had to be confined to the back yard? The dining area, firepit, tennis court and deck at former NHL player Dan Hamhuis’s home all face the front. “When guests arrive at the property by boat or car, Dan and Sarah wanted them to be able to see if people were gathering outside and to feel welcome,” says designer Chad Falkenberg. Umm… is that an open invitation? Because we’ll gladly stop by! Step inside this 4,100-square-foot abode.

Fired Up

An infinity pool, views of the Molokini Crater, a gorgeous lanai—is there anything this Maui home doesn’t have? Vancouver-based designer Stephanie Brown gave it a look that she describes as “a fresh take on tropical island style.” And yes, that includes tiki torches and fire cauldrons. “The fire element is a big thing,” she says. Check out the rest of this vacation home.