Desert Living Now
Interior Designer Josh Collins Shares Key Strategies for Creating Year-Round Outdoor Living Spaces
While many homeowners view their backyards as a natural extension of their indoor living space, these premium outdoor areas frequently go unused when seasonal temperatures begin to fluctuate. On a recent broadcast of Desert Living, host Brian sat down with Josh Collins, the founder and principal of J Collins Interiors and Home Furnishings, to discuss how intentional design can transform underutilized backyards into comfortable, year-round sanctuaries.
According to Collins, the primary mistake homeowners make when designing outdoor spaces is over-indexing on summer climate control. Property owners heavily prioritize cooling elements, such as misting systems and shade sails, while completely overlooking the colder winter months or the characteristically chilly mornings and evenings common in desert environments. Collins emphasized that year-round usability requires proactive planning to create an inviting climate and a relaxing ambiance that is comfortable regardless of the season.
The push for improved outdoor environments aligns with shifting consumer priorities regarding health and wellness. A recent industry survey highlighted during the segment revealed that 92 percent of homeowners consider spending time outdoors to be vital for their mental and emotional well-being. Collins noted that these figures reflect a growing societal desire to escape increasingly chaotic, screen-centric routines. Spending deliberate time in nature allows adults and children alike to disconnect from the constant digital noise of smartphones, computers, television screens, and tablets.
To unlock the full potential of a property, Collins advises homeowners to expand their architectural perspective past the traditional back patio layout. Rather than pigeonholing all outdoor activities into a single paved area, designers recommend looking at the entire perimeter of the home to establish multiple distinct living zones. Unused side yards can be transformed into intimate dining alcoves, while front courtyards can be reconfigured into welcoming seating areas that maximize a property's total usable square footage.
For homeowners looking to integrate effective climate balance into their layout adjustments, Collins highlighted a strategic partnership with Bromic, an industry leader in premium outdoor heating solutions. By incorporating specialized heating elements, property owners can seamlessly regulate the ambient temperature of their expanded spaces. To explore design inspiration, product lineups, and expert layout advice, viewers can visit bromic.com or consult with regional home improvement specialists to prepare their spaces for the upcoming seasonal shifts.
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By: NBC Palm Springs
June 4, 2026
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