--- title: Industry News & Insights description: Learn more about industry news and explore exciting insights by checking out our blog! --- [Skip to main content](https://outdoorinnovations.com/blog#main-content) - [About](https://outdoorinnovations.com/about-us) - [Latest News](https://outdoorinnovations.com/blog) - [651-983-1976](tel:6519831976) [![OutdoorInnovations_2026_VectorAssets](https://outdoorinnovations.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Website/2026-Logos/OutdoorInnovations_2026_VectorAssets.png?width=301&height=91&name=OutdoorInnovations_2026_VectorAssets.png) ![OutdoorInnovations_2026_VectorAssets](https://outdoorinnovations.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Website/2026-Logos/OutdoorInnovations_2026_VectorAssets.png?width=301&height=91&name=OutdoorInnovations_2026_VectorAssets.png)](https://outdoorinnovations.com) - Show submenu for Pools Pools - [In-Ground Pools](https://outdoorinnovations.com/swimming-pools) - [Pool Houses](https://outdoorinnovations.com/pool-houses) - Show submenu for Outdoor Living Outdoor Living - [Kitchen & Bars](https://outdoorinnovations.com/outdoor-kitchen) - [Outdoor Living Rooms](https://outdoorinnovations.com/outdoor-living-rooms) - [Decks & Porches](https://outdoorinnovations.com/decks-porches) - [Patios](https://outdoorinnovations.com/patios) - [Outdoor Structures](https://outdoorinnovations.com/pergolas-gazebos) - Show submenu for Landscaping Landscaping - [Pavers](https://outdoorinnovations.com/pavers) - [Retaining Walls](https://outdoorinnovations.com/retaining-walls) - [Fire & Water Features](https://outdoorinnovations.com/fire-and-water-features) - [Septic Systems](https://outdoorinnovations.com/septic-systems-management) - Show submenu for Gallery Gallery - [Pools](https://outdoorinnovations.com/gallery#pools) - [Outdoor Living Rooms](https://outdoorinnovations.com/gallery#outdoor-living) - [Outdoor Kitchens & Bars](https://outdoorinnovations.com/gallery#outdoor-living) - [Patios/Decks](https://outdoorinnovations.com/gallery#paver-patio) - [All Our Work](https://outdoorinnovations.com/gallery) Open main navigation Close main navigation - Show submenu for Pools Pools - Pools - [In-Ground Pools](https://outdoorinnovations.com/swimming-pools) - [Pool Houses](https://outdoorinnovations.com/pool-houses) - Show submenu for Outdoor Living Outdoor Living - Outdoor Living - [Kitchen & Bars](https://outdoorinnovations.com/outdoor-kitchen) - [Outdoor Living Rooms](https://outdoorinnovations.com/outdoor-living-rooms) - [Decks & Porches](https://outdoorinnovations.com/decks-porches) - [Patios](https://outdoorinnovations.com/patios) - [Outdoor Structures](https://outdoorinnovations.com/pergolas-gazebos) - Show submenu for Landscaping Landscaping - Landscaping - [Pavers](https://outdoorinnovations.com/pavers) - [Retaining Walls](https://outdoorinnovations.com/retaining-walls) - [Fire & Water Features](https://outdoorinnovations.com/fire-and-water-features) - [Septic Systems](https://outdoorinnovations.com/septic-systems-management) - Show submenu for Gallery Gallery - Gallery - [Pools](https://outdoorinnovations.com/gallery#pools) - [Outdoor Living Rooms](https://outdoorinnovations.com/gallery#outdoor-living) - [Outdoor Kitchens & Bars](https://outdoorinnovations.com/gallery#outdoor-living) - [Patios/Decks](https://outdoorinnovations.com/gallery#paver-patio) - [All Our Work](https://outdoorinnovations.com/gallery) - [Get Started](https://outdoorinnovations.com/contact-us) - [About](https://outdoorinnovations.com/about-us) - [Latest News](https://outdoorinnovations.com/blog) - [651-983-1976](tel:6519831976) [Get Started](https://outdoorinnovations.com/contact-us) ##### [![an aerial shot of a backyard, showcasing the beautiful green landscaping, rock garden, and custom pavers.](https://outdoorinnovations.com/hubfs/Imported_Blog_Media/aerial%20shot%20of%20yard.jpg) What Makes a Design-Build Landscaper Different From a Standard Contractor? Luxury is one of those words that's easy to recognize but surprisingly difficult to define. Particularly when it comes to backyard design. Outdoor Living Rooms, Outdoor Kitchens & Bars, Outdoor Living, Design](https://outdoorinnovations.com/blog/what-sets-a-luxury-backyard-project-apart-from-a-standard-build) ##### [![A wood stove outdoors on a white cabinet](https://outdoorinnovations.com/hubfs/Website/Outdoor%20Kitchens%20and%20Livingrooms/baebff75016e4fcdbc2d440dab08044f.jpg) How to Get the Most Out of Your Outdoor Kitchen in Minnesota Whether you're hosting a neighborhood barbecue, preparing dinner for the family, or spending the afternoon by the pool, a well-designed outdoor kitchen layout makes cooking, serving, and socializing happen naturally. The best setups out here aren't built around a wish list of appliances — they're ... Outdoor Kitchens & Bars](https://outdoorinnovations.com/blog/how-to-get-the-most-out-of-your-minnesota-outdoor-kitchen) ##### [![aerial shot of a pool surrounded by lights](https://outdoorinnovations.com/hubfs/Imported_Blog_Media/aerial%20shot%20of%20pool.jpg) The Secret to Integrating Tech Into Your Outdoor Pool Area A well-designed outdoor pool area cultivates a vibe. It quickly becomes a place where family and friends naturally want to spend time. The right outdoor technology helps support that experience: without you or your guests ever noticing it. Outdoor Living Rooms, Outdoor Kitchens & Bars, Outdoor Living, Design](https://outdoorinnovations.com/blog/outdoor-pool-tech) ##### [![a close-up of green grass](https://outdoorinnovations.com/hubfs/Imported_Blog_Media/green%20tall%20grass.jpg) Beyond Grass: Smart Ways to Use Artificial Turf In Your Backyard Artificial turf has come a long way. Today's products look more natural, feel more comfortable underfoot, and require far less maintenance than a traditional lawn. Outdoor Living, Design](https://outdoorinnovations.com/blog/artificial-turf-vs-grass-in-your-backyard) ##### [![an outdoor fireplace with gorgeous brick pattern and flush LED lights. nearby is a seating area with couches, end tables, and a sun umbrella. in the foreground we see an in-ground pool.](https://outdoorinnovations.com/hubfs/Imported_Blog_Media/an%20outdoor%20fireplace.jpg) The Lasting Value of an Outdoor Fireplace in Your Backyard There are plenty of features you can add to a backyard. But few elements change the feeling of a space as dramatically as fire. Fire & Water Features, Outdoor Living](https://outdoorinnovations.com/blog/why-investing-in-an-outdoor-fireplace-is-worth-it) ##### [![overhead view of a pool with a nearby shuffleboard](https://outdoorinnovations.com/hubfs/Website/Pools/Pool%20overhead%20with%20shuffleboard.jpg) How to Choose Between Concrete and Vinyl Pools When homeowners start planning a pool, one of the first decisions they face is concrete or vinyl. Pools, Design](https://outdoorinnovations.com/blog/concrete-vs.-vinyl-pool-which-is-better-for-your-backyard) ##### [![a bar area in an outdoor kitchen. a beautiful dark wood pergola partiall covers a custom black countertop, which is flanked by 8 bar chairs.](https://outdoorinnovations.com/hubfs/Website/Outdoor%20Kitchens%20and%20Livingrooms/view%20of%20a%20bar%20area%20in%20outdoor%20kitchen%20(1).jpg) How to Design an Outdoor Kitchen That Works With Your Pool Pools tend to become the center of backyard life. Adding an outdoor kitchen nearby makes that space even better. Outdoor Kitchens & Bars, Pools, Design](https://outdoorinnovations.com/blog/building-an-outdoor-kitchen-by-your-pool-what-to-know) ##### [![close up of warm taupe pavers](https://outdoorinnovations.com/hubfs/Website/Pavers/close%20up%20of%20pavers.jpg) Comparing Pool Deck Materials: Concrete, Natural Stone, and Pavers When homeowners plan a new pool, most of the attention naturally goes to the water. Pool shape. Features. Lighting. Steps. Seating. All the fun stuff. Pavers, Design](https://outdoorinnovations.com/blog/best-pool-deck-material-concrete-natural-stone-or-pavers) ##### [![aerial shot of a backyard with a swimming pool, outdoor kitchen, and large hardscaped paver.](https://outdoorinnovations.com/hubfs/Case%20Studies/Kharbanda%20Case%20Study/2024%20CMC%20LS%20MN%20MINNEAPOLIS%201218%20Summit%20Avenue%20Residence%20COM0137_00942%204%20Stars.jpg) Smart Backyard Design Ideas for Making Small Yards Feel Bigger In many Twin Cities neighborhoods, yards are compact, irregularly shaped, or limited by setbacks, slopes, or existing landscaping. Outdoor Living Rooms, Outdoor Kitchens & Bars, Outdoor Living, Pools, Design](https://outdoorinnovations.com/blog/small-yard-big-impact-design-strategies-that-maximize-usable-space) ##### [![a splash in an in-ground pool after a child jumps in](https://outdoorinnovations.com/hubfs/Imported_Blog_Media/splash-1.jpg) Designing an In-Ground Pool Both Kids and Adults Will Love A backyard pool should feel like a retreat. Pools](https://outdoorinnovations.com/blog/designing-an-in-ground-pool-both-kids-and-adults-will-love) ##### [![a 3D rendering of a backyard, highly futuristic, inside a white cube like a museum display. the studio scene shows a fake pool surrounded by smooth white surface, patio furniture, and random assorted grass.](https://outdoorinnovations.com/hubfs/Imported_Blog_Media/minimal_studio_scene-backyard.jpg) Can AI Design Your Backyard? What Works and What Doesn’t Scroll through social media for five minutes and you’ll see it: AI is everywhere. So it hasn’t been that much of a surprise that we’re seeing homeowners turn to AI tools to transform their backyard in seconds. Outdoor Living Rooms, Outdoor Living, Pools, Design](https://outdoorinnovations.com/blog/can-ai-design-your-backyard) ##### [![an in ground pool in a backyard, surrounded by gorgeous pavers, an outdoor living room, a pool house, and lounge chairs.](https://outdoorinnovations.com/hubfs/Imported_Blog_Media/an%20in%20ground%20pool.jpg) In-Ground Pools in Minnesota: What Actually Adds Value When Minnesota homeowners get an in-ground pool, it’s often to cool down and enjoy our warm summer days, but it’s also to add resale value later on. If your goal is to enjoy your pool while you have it and turn it into an investment later on, integrating value into your design and build is ... Pools, Design](https://outdoorinnovations.com/blog/in-ground-pools-in-minnesota-what-actually-adds-value) ##### [![an in-ground pool with a tanning ledge](https://outdoorinnovations.com/hubfs/Imported_Blog_Media/tanning%20ledge.jpg) Pool Entry Options Explained: Steps, Benches, Tanning Ledges A pool entry is not just how you get in and out of the water. It’s where people pause, sit, gather, and linger. Over time, it becomes one of the most used parts of the pool. Pools](https://outdoorinnovations.com/blog/pool-entry-options-explained-steps-benches-tanning-ledges) ##### [![an in ground pool with a safety cover](https://outdoorinnovations.com/hubfs/Imported_Blog_Media/pool%20with%20cover.jpg) Pool Safety Features Every Family Should Consider Owning a pool is fun for the whole family, but there are important things to keep in mind when planning your construction to ensure safety. Before building your in-ground swimming pool, make sure your plans include these vital safety features. Pools](https://outdoorinnovations.com/blog/pool-safety-features-every-family-should-consider) ##### [![a pergola with a dripping waterfall into an inground pool](https://outdoorinnovations.com/hubfs/Imported_Blog_Media/a%20pergola%20with%20waterfall.jpg) Pergola vs Pavilion vs Porch: What's Best in MN? In Minnesota, outdoor structures have to do more than look good. They need to handle snow,, shifting temperatures, heavy rain, and long summer days. That’s why choosing between a pergola, pavilion, or porch is less about style and more about how you want to use the space. Decks & Porches, Outdoor Living, Pergolas & Gazebos, Pavilion](https://outdoorinnovations.com/blog/pergola-vs-pavilion-vs-porch-whats-best-in-mn) ##### [![aerial view of an in-ground pool](https://outdoorinnovations.com/hubfs/Imported_Blog_Media/in-ground%20pool-2.jpg) 2026 In-Ground Pool Trends A pool is no longer just a summer feature. Homeowners are designing pools to be used earlier in the spring, later into fall, and more comfortably in between. That shift is shaping how pools are built, equipped, and integrated into the backyard as a whole. Pools, Design](https://outdoorinnovations.com/blog/2026-in-ground-pool-trends) ##### [![a green lawn with a garden bed](https://outdoorinnovations.com/hubfs/Imported_Blog_Media/green%20landscape.jpg) Tips for Choosing the Right Landscaping Company A backyard remodel is one of the biggest upgrades you can make to your home—so choosing the right partner matters. A skilled landscaping team will guide you through planning, designing, and building an outdoor space that matches your lifestyle and performs beautifully in Minnesota’s climate. Here’s ... Outdoor Living Rooms, Pavers, Pool Houses, Patios, Outdoor Kitchens & Bars, Retaining Walls, Decks & Porches, Fire & Water Features, Outdoor Living, Stormwater Management, Pergolas & Gazebos, Septic Systems Management](https://outdoorinnovations.com/blog/tips-for-choosing-the-right-landscaping-company) ##### [![close-up of a child jumping into a pool, creating a spectacular splash](https://outdoorinnovations.com/hubfs/Imported_Blog_Media/splash.jpg) Popular Kid-Friendly Landscaping Ideas for Your Backyard A backyard shapes family moments that turn into fond memories. It’s where summer weekends drift into endless evenings, where everyone ends up gathering without planning to, and the backdrop for the best parties. When you design a space that works for the whole family, you get a yard that feels ... Outdoor Living](https://outdoorinnovations.com/blog/popular-kid-friendly-landscaping-ideas-for-your-backyard) [1](https://outdoorinnovations.com/blog) [2](https://outdoorinnovations.com/blog/page/2) [3](https://outdoorinnovations.com/blog/page/3) [4](https://outdoorinnovations.com/blog/page/4) [Next](https://outdoorinnovations.com/blog/page/2) [![OutdoorInnovations_OI](https://outdoorinnovations.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Website/2026-Logos/OutdoorInnovations_OI.png?width=300&height=232&name=OutdoorInnovations_OI.png)](https://outdoorinnovations.com) - [Contact Us](https://outdoorinnovations.com/contact-us) - [Careers](https://outdoorinnovations.com/careers) - Additional Services - [Pavers](https://outdoorinnovations.com/pavers) - [Retaining Walls](https://outdoorinnovations.com/retaining-walls) - [Septic Systems Management](https://outdoorinnovations.com/septic-systems-management) 2026 Outdoor Innovations Landscaping©  | All rights reserved | [Privacy Policy](http://47141334.hs-sites.com/privacy-policy) | Minneapolis Web Design by BizzyWeb [![Houzz](https://outdoorinnovations.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Houzz.png?width=152&height=28&name=Houzz.png)](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/landscape-contractors/outdoor-innovations-landscaping-pfvwus-pf~2081419529?) - - -