Fall Atlanta Home Show sneak peek: 5 outdoor living trends and tips

The Fall Atlanta Home Show returns on Sept. 5-7, just in time for the season where Atlantans relish spending more time on their patios, porches and decks. With a new component an Outdoor Living Expo the event will feature 300 exhibitors and inspiration from guest speakers such as landscape designer Ahmed Hassan, original host of HGTV and DIY Networks Yard Crashers.

The 31st annual show also will offer ideas for kitchens, baths, insulation, heating and air conditioning, security, home automation and more. Returning exhibits include the 3,000-square-foot SeeThru House, staffed by ConsultAHomePro.com experts.

Exhibitors shared five trends and tips for outdoor kitchens, fireplaces, landscaping and more.

1. Complete outdoor kitchens

One appliance that excites some first-time buyers is buying a grill and finally being able to cook out. Outdoor kitchens are now much more than a basic grill. The spaces have expanded to include refrigerators, side burners, sinks and prep areas, wine chillers, smokers, warming drawers, islands, bars, and dry storage and sealed pantries that keep out the bugs.

What customers are requesting and looking for is a fully functioning kitchen, said Lisa Connor, business development manager for Norcross-based Builder Specialties Inc.

For homeowners wanting to cook outside frequently for themselves or guests, the design plan should mimic whats indoors.

Every indoor kitchen should have a basic work triangle. An outdoor kitchen is no different, Connor said. Youre able to get everything outside without having to go back and forth and make multiple trips into the kitchen.

Some exhibitors, such as Whaley Landscape Services, which will have the largest outdoor living display at 2,000 square feet - will showcase pizza ovens. The ovens are becoming more affordable and increasing in popularity, and also can be used for baking bread, Focaccia and egg strada dishes, Connor said. Attendees also can check out high-end brands such as Alfresco, Lynx and Primo Ceramic Grills.

Homeowners dont have to spend six figures on a backyard (although some do), but can create an outdoor living space with features such as a fire pit, pavers and a built-in grill for $5,000-$15,000, said Andy Whaley, owner of Suwanee-based Whaley Landscape Services.

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Fall Atlanta Home Show sneak peek: 5 outdoor living trends and tips