Minnesota homeowners love the outdoors — we just have to be more intentional about designing for it. A patio in Edina isn’t the same as a patio in Austin. Freeze-thaw cycles, heavy snow loads, and the intense UV of summer all put demands on materials that milder climates don’t.
But when it’s done right, an outdoor living space in Minnesota can extend your usable season from April through November — and look stunning doing it.
Start With the Hardscape
The foundation of any outdoor living space is the hardscape — the paved surfaces, retaining walls, and structural elements that define the space. In Minnesota, material choices are critical:
- Natural stone — Bluestone, limestone, and granite are naturally suited to our climate. They handle freeze-thaw without cracking and develop a beautiful patina over time.
- Porcelain pavers — A newer option that’s becoming very popular. They’re virtually indestructible, stain-resistant, and won’t absorb water that could freeze and crack.
- Poured concrete — When properly reinforced and jointed, stamped or colored concrete can be a cost-effective option for larger areas.
- Brick — Classic and timeless, especially on older homes. Tumbled brick with a soldier course border is a detail we love.
Avoid: Thin natural stone tiles and pavers without a proper base. Minnesota requires a deep compacted gravel base (typically 8 to 12 inches) to prevent heaving.
Fire Features
A fire pit or fireplace extends the season by months. When it’s 50 degrees and you’re sitting next to a real fire, it feels like a luxury — not a compromise.
Popular options include:
- Built-in fire pits — Natural gas or wood-burning, surrounded by a stone or concrete cap for seating
- Outdoor fireplaces — A statement piece that anchors a covered patio
- Linear fire tables — A modern take that works well with contemporary architecture
We recommend gas-fueled features for convenience (no hauling wood, no smoke), but wood-burning options are hard to beat for ambiance.
Covered Structures
A roof over part of your outdoor space changes everything. It provides shade in July, shelter during a rain shower, and a place for ceiling fans and outdoor lighting.
Options include:
- Pergolas — Open-air structures that filter sunlight. Add retractable shade panels for more coverage.
- Covered patios — A full roof extension from the house with recessed lighting and ceiling fans
- Screened porches — The ultimate three-season room. Keep the bugs out and the breeze in from May through October.
Outdoor Kitchens
We’re seeing more demand for outdoor kitchens, and they make sense. Why go inside to cook when you can grill, prep, and serve right where everyone’s gathered?
A well-designed outdoor kitchen includes:
- A built-in grill and burner station
- Counter space in natural stone or porcelain
- A small refrigerator or beverage cooler
- A sink with hot and cold water
- Adequate lighting for evening cooking
Run gas, water, and electrical lines during construction to avoid digging up finished hardscape later.
Landscape Integration
The hardscape is the structure. The landscape is the soul. We design plantings that:
- Provide privacy screening without blocking light
- Add seasonal color from spring to fall
- Include native perennials that thrive in Minnesota without heavy maintenance
- Incorporate landscape lighting to extend enjoyment into the evening
Low-voltage LED path lighting, uplighting on trees, and step lights on retaining walls add safety and atmosphere.
Budgeting for Outdoor Living
Outdoor living projects in the Edina and Minneapolis area vary widely depending on scope:
- Basic patio with fire pit: $15,000 – $30,000
- Multi-level patio with retaining walls: $30,000 – $60,000
- Covered patio with outdoor kitchen: $50,000 – $120,000+
We work with you to phase projects if needed — build the patio and fireplace this year, add the kitchen next year.
The Best Time to Start
Design and planning can begin in winter, which is actually ideal. Lead times on stone and custom work mean that a project started in January or February can break ground as soon as the frost clears in April.
If you’ve been thinking about making the most of your backyard, let’s talk about what’s possible.