As the market continues to recover from the 2007-2009 recession, growth in existing home sales, residential and nonresidential construction and increases in disposable income will help fuel landscaping demand.
Over half of the demand will come from the residential sector, as the popularity of usable outdoor living spaces spreads. Outdoor living spaces, such as kitchens and living areas, will increase the need for landscaping material, including pavers, bricks, stone, trellises and pergolas.
After cutting back on nonessentials during the recession, homeowners also are looking to increase their “curb appeal” through lighting and other decorative products, such as planters and water features.
Developers of nonresidential buildings also are looking to expand outdoor seating areas, growing the need for hardscaping products.
Both residential and nonresidential markets are pursuing outdoor heating elements, such as fire pits and fireplaces, to extend the amount of time outdoor spaces are usable.
Current weather conditions, particularly the large-scale drought in the West, will influence a shift toward xeriscaping – landscaping designed to conserve water – due to restrictions on water use. Increases in installations of hardscaping, synthetic turf and water-conserving irrigation systems can be expected, according to the report.
Water features will continue to grow in popularity, but with a focus on recirculation fountains and pondless waterfalls.
