Mid-Missouri, with its rolling hills, forests, and four distinct seasons, provides homeowners with a unique opportunity to create outdoor living spaces that are both functional and beautiful. One such feature that has increasingly gained popularity in recent years is the outdoor pavilion. More than just a decorative element, a pavilion can elevate a home’s outdoor living space, offering protection, versatility, and even an increase in home value.
Why Consider a Pavilion?
Imagine a sunny summer day in Jefferson City. You want to enjoy the outdoors but need a little shade. Perhaps you’re picturing hosting a late autumn barbeque, but snow threatens your plans. Enter the pavilion – a standalone structure, often without walls, providing shade and some element of protection from the elements. Unlike a pergola, which is more ornamental and offers partial shade, pavilions are designed to offer full shade and can be equipped to handle rain, snow, or sun.
Options for Your Pavilion
Ceiling Fans and Heaters: For those sweltering Mid-Missouri summers, ceiling fans can keep the air circulating and make the space more comfortable. Meanwhile, adding outdoor heaters can make the space usable even during chilly autumn nights.
Lighting: Integrate lighting fixtures for nighttime use. This could range from ambient fairy lights to more elaborate pendant lights or chandeliers, depending on your aesthetic.
Outdoor Kitchen or Barbecue Area: Combine the functionality of an outdoor kitchen with the comfort of a pavilion. This way, rain or shine, your grilling plans are never hampered.
Fireplace or Fire Pit: Especially useful for colder months, a fireplace or fire pit can be the focal point of your pavilion, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Screens or Curtains: Adding retractable screens can keep out pesky bugs during warmer months, and curtains can offer additional privacy and protection.
Entertainment System: Modern pavilions often integrate entertainment systems. Adding a weather-resistant TV can transform your pavilion into an outdoor movie theater or the perfect spot to catch the big game, creating an exciting focal point for gatherings.
Poolside Refuge: In an area where summers can get humid and hot, many homeowners have embraced the refreshing allure of swimming pools. A poolside pavilion offers both protection from the sun and a touch of opulence. The addition of fans or even misting fans can cool you down while you take a break from the sun’s rays.
Materials to Choose From
The materials you choose for your pavilion should not only be aesthetically pleasing but also able to withstand the varied Mid-Missouri climate. Here are some options:
Wood: A classic choice, wood offers a rustic and traditional look. Cedar is a popular option due to its resistance to pests and decay. With proper treatment, wood can withstand the elements and last for many years.
Vinyl: For those looking for a low-maintenance option, vinyl pavilions are resistant to rot, pests, and decay. They offer a clean look and require minimal upkeep.
Metal: Steel or aluminum pavilions can offer a sleek, modern aesthetic. They are durable and can be designed to be rust-resistant, making them an excellent choice for longevity.
Boosting Home Value
Beyond the immediate pleasure and utility of a pavilion, homeowners can also see it as an investment. According to real estate experts, well-designed outdoor spaces can increase a property’s value by up to 10-15%.* With more homeowners seeking houses that offer outdoor entertainment spaces, a pavilion can be a significant selling point. It showcases a commitment to maximizing the property’s potential and providing versatile spaces suitable for various activities.
For Mid-Missouri homeowners, adding a pavilion is about more than just aesthetics. It’s about creating a functional, year-round space that complements the area’s beautiful terrain and varied climate. Whether you’re looking for a cozy spot to read a book during the summer, a protected area to grill during a light drizzle, a fun spot to host friends and family for the latest game, or a warm place to gather with loved ones in winter, a pavilion can truly elevate your outdoor living experience. And as a bonus, it might just elevate your property’s value too.
* Source: Bankrate
