As spring blooms across Western Pennsylvania and temperatures begin to rise, Pittsburgh homeowners are turning their attention to outdoor living spaces. At BRK Custom Concrete, we’ve seen a significant uptick in calls from homeowners eager to transform their concrete patios, pool decks, and outdoor kitchens into entertainment-ready spaces for the upcoming summer months.
Maximizing Your Outdoor Space
The trend toward expanded outdoor living continues to grow in 2025, with homeowners seeking to create versatile spaces that accommodate everything from intimate family gatherings to larger social events. When designing your summer entertainment area, consider these practical tips:
1. Zoning for Function
Break your outdoor space into distinct zones based on function. A dining area with adequate space for furniture, a conversation pit centered around a fire feature, and a cooking zone with built-in concrete countertops create natural flow and purpose throughout your space. For larger properties, consider how pathways and transitions can connect these areas seamlessly.
2. Weather-Ready Features
Pittsburgh’s summer weather can be unpredictable. Incorporating sheltered areas through pergolas or pavilions with concrete footings provides protection from both sudden rain showers and intense afternoon sun. Proper drainage solutions (as we discussed in our November post) become even more critical for entertainment spaces to ensure guests aren’t dealing with puddles after a typical summer storm.
3. Lighting Integration
Extend your entertainment hours with thoughtfully designed lighting. Today’s concrete installations can seamlessly incorporate lighting elements directly into steps, retaining walls, and patio perimeters. Not only does this enhance safety, but it also creates ambiance for evening gatherings that extend long after sunset.
Trending Concrete Options for Summer 2025
Building on our January trends post, several concrete finishes and design elements are proving especially popular this season:
1. Cool-Touch Concrete
The scorching summer sun can make traditional concrete uncomfortably hot underfoot, especially around pools. New formulations and finishing techniques are creating surfaces that remain significantly cooler to the touch, making barefoot comfort possible even on the hottest Pittsburgh days. These cool-touch options pair perfectly with pool surrounds and play areas where comfort is paramount.
2. Integrated Water Features
From simple bubbling fountains to elaborate cascading walls, water features built from concrete add both visual interest and the soothing sound of moving water to your outdoor space. The contrast between solid concrete elements and flowing water creates a dynamic sensory experience that guests invariably appreciate during summer gatherings.
3. Sustainable Concrete Options
Environmentally conscious homeowners are increasingly requesting permeable concrete solutions that allow rainwater to filter through rather than run off. These sustainable options reduce water pooling and help manage stormwater naturally—a perfect complement to the drainage solutions we highlighted last fall. Many permeable options can be colored and finished to match more traditional decorative concrete elements in your design.
Maintenance Tips for Summer-Ready Spaces
Even the highest-quality concrete installations require some maintenance to look their best during the entertainment season:
- Schedule a spring power wash to remove winter’s accumulated grime and reveal your concrete’s true beauty
- Refresh sealants on decorative surfaces every 2-3 years to maintain their vibrant appearance
- Check drainage pathways to ensure they’re clear of debris and functioning properly
- Clean and maintain joint sealants between concrete sections to prevent water infiltration
Planning Your Summer-Ready Project
If you’re considering upgrading your outdoor entertainment space this season, now is the ideal time to begin planning. The concrete installation calendar fills quickly as summer approaches, and proper planning (as outlined in our March guide) ensures your project will be completed in time to enjoy the best of Pittsburgh’s summer weather.
At BRK Custom Concrete, we specialize in creating outdoor entertainment spaces that combine beauty, functionality, and durability—all within your budget. Whether you’re considering a luxury outdoor kitchen with custom concrete countertops or simply want to refresh an existing patio with decorative techniques, our team brings the same attention to detail and craftsmanship to every project.
Contact us today for a consultation to discuss how we can transform your outdoor space into the summer entertainment destination you’ve been dreaming of.