Homeowners across Central Pennsylvania are changing how they plan their backyards, according to A Plus Landscaping, a family-owned outdoor living design-build company based in Reinholds. Instead of adding an outdoor kitchen after a patio is built, many residents now bring up the kitchen during the first walkthrough with a designer. That shift is significant because it allows plumbing, gas, and electrical connections to be mapped before any patio surface is installed, avoiding costly retrofits and layout compromises.
Marcus Waldner, founder of A Plus Landscaping, noted the change in homeowner behavior. "Homeowners used to think of the kitchen as something you add once the patio is done. Now it's one of the first things they bring up on the initial walk-through, right alongside the patio and the fire feature," he said. "Building it into the plan from day one means we're not working around plumbing or seating that's already locked in."
The company's local observations align with national data. The 2026 U.S. Houzz Outdoor Trends Study found that 95 percent of outdoor kitchen projects started from scratch, and more than two-thirds included plumbing, electrical, or heating improvements. These figures underscore that outdoor kitchens are no longer an afterthought but a core component of outdoor living design.
For homeowners, the implications are practical and financial. Early integration means counters, appliances, storage, seating, and walking paths can be coordinated as a unified layout. It also gives homeowners more control over where utilities run, which can reduce the risk of change orders and unexpected expenses during construction. A Plus Landscaping designs outdoor kitchens around how each homeowner plans to cook, serve, and gather, incorporating features such as built-in grills, pizza ovens, and adjacent fire features.
Each project begins with a property visit from an A Plus Design Professional. For larger projects, the company may provide full 3D renderings before construction starts, and it manages the project from design through installation. This end-to-end approach helps ensure that the kitchen, patio, and other elements work together seamlessly. Homeowners interested in exploring options can request a consultation through the company's website or by phone.
The broader significance of this trend extends beyond individual backyards. As outdoor spaces become more like indoor living areas, the demand for integrated design services is likely to grow. Companies that can offer comprehensive planning and construction may have an advantage over those that treat outdoor kitchens as standalone additions. For homeowners, the message is clear: thinking about the kitchen early can lead to a more functional, cohesive, and enjoyable outdoor environment.
