Creating the ultimate backyard escape is more popular than ever. No longer are people satisfied with just your run-of-the-mill deck or patio. Instead, they're taking it one-step further and merging household comforts with the outdoors.

"They're trying to make it into a small, mini-resort at home. They're picking out dining applications, fireplace applications. They're picking out deep seating and conversation areas. They're making it a home entertainment center," said Wayne Stritsman with Best Fire Hearth & Patio.

Did you notice that fireplace behind Wayne? Nice, isn't it? He says the gas fixtures have become very popular because you're able to put them anywhere.

"You can put this right up on a wooden deck. A wood burning fireplace cannot go on a combustible wooden deck. The gas fireplaces are definitely very, very nice. It gives us the ambiance we're looking for and you can turn it on and off with the flip of a switch," Stritsman said.

With a name straight out of ancient Rome, pergolas have been popular of late as well. Stritsman says they're perfect for defining a space.

"The pergolas are really designed to define the area of your room. It's not a weatherproof enclosure. You can add lattice to the top or leave them open, you can plant vines to grow over the top. We want the outdoors to come in, "Stritsman said.

Not only can you create an outdoor space like this, that's just as comfortable as your living room, but you can also bring your entire kitchen outside as well.

"It combines grilling and a rotisserie. A couple of side burners and a griddle. Even a warming oven down under here. This one here is definitely a kitchen application," Stritsman said.

Let's not forget your furniture options. Any style, color or pattern can be found to fit your needs. And remember, this stuff is made for outdoor use. It stands up to the weather, maintenance is minimal and the fabrics are treated to resist fading in the sun. Once again, you're really only limited by your wallet.