What’s the hottest trend in residential landscape design, according to the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA)? Fire. Fire pits and fireplaces were the most requested design features in single-family and multifamily projects, followed closely by seating and dining areas. Somewhat of a surprise is a strong consumer interest in wireless connectivity and charging stations for outdoor areas. Apparently, the great outdoors is no escape from our high-tech reality these days.

Among the other top 10 projects requested:

• Native plants – 83.3%
• Native/adapted drought tolerant plants – 83.0%
• Low-maintenance landscapes – 80.0%
• Flexible use space (for yoga classes, movie night, etc.) – 74.2%
• Permeable paving – 74.0%
• Drip/water-efficient irrigation – 72.4%
• Rain gardens – 71.2%
• Reduced lawn area – 70.8%
• Food/vegetable gardens (including orchards, vineyards, etc.) – 70.5%
• Charging stations (mobile devices) – 70.0%