5 Creative Ways to Use Your Outdoor Living Space Year-Round
When you invest in an outdoor living space, it is crucial to ensure it checks all of your boxes - after all, you want to get the most out of it. Whether you're looking for an outdoor lounge to enjoy your morning cup of coffee or an evening glass of wine with friends, it's important that you implement design elements that best fit what you want. With the design, style, and accessories, such as unique outdoor furniture, outdoor lighting, and potted plants, you can create an outdoor area that you can enjoy year-round - regardless of the weather.
In fact, inclement weather is one of the top reasons homeowners can’t enjoy their outdoor space year-round, but these five tips will ensure you can create an outdoor space that is resistant to poor weather conditions.
Install an Outdoor Fireplace or Fire Pit
Adding a fireplace or fire pit to your outdoor patio area is a fantastic way to create an outdoor space that you can use year-round. Not only does it add warmth and light, but it also creates a cozy ambiance for gatherings with family and friends. Imagine relaxing on your outdoor furniture, roasting marshmallows on a crisp fall evening or sipping hot cocoa in front of a roaring fire on a snowy winter night. With a fireplace or fire pit, your outdoor living space can be used throughout the year. Plus, there is a wide range of style options for outdoor cushions that are purposely made to withstand the elements and liven up your space.
Add a Covered Area
A covered area provides a much-needed barrier from the elements, making your outdoor living space usable in all weather conditions. Adding a pergola, gazebo, or other covered structure to your outdoor area can provide shade in the summer and shelter you from rain and snow in the winter. It could also be a great place for an outdoor kitchen, where added heating elements such as outdoor heaters or a fire pit to make the space comfortable on cooler days. This also makes outdoor dining much more comfortable in the hot sun or even warm rainy days.
Incorporate Lighting
Finding and using the proper lighting in your outdoor living space design is crucial to creating a space you can use throughout the year. String lights, lanterns, and even landscape lighting help to create a warm and inviting environment for you, your family, and your guests. Lighting is crucial in any outdoor living space, especially when you want to use it year-round. Having proper light fixtures also makes your outdoor spaces safer, ensuring dark walkways don’t become a hazard.
Introduce Textiles and Accessories
Textiles and accessories can add comfort and style to your outdoor living space. Add cushions, blankets, and outdoor rugs to create a cozy atmosphere that's perfect for snuggling up with a book or entertaining guests. The best part about outdoor furnishings is that they are made for exactly that -- remaining outside and withstanding years worth of rain, snow and cool temperatures. You can also incorporate outdoor decors such as planters, statues, and artwork to add personality to your space.
Embrace Seasonal Design
One of the best parts of having a year-round outdoor living space is that you can decorate it for unique seasons and holidays. Embracing seasonal design helps give you more comfort in embracing the colder weather. For example, you can use pumpkins and gourds during the fall and switch to evergreens and garlands for the winter months. During the spring and summer, switch it up with outdoor plants, colorful flowers and fresh herbs. No matter the season, your outdoor space will feel warm and cozy while looking stylish and inviting!
Final Thoughts
Your outdoor living space is an extension of your home - so don’t be afraid to embrace unique style and design choices to give yourself the perfect cozy space. The best way to maximize this space is by incorporating it with the style of your home and surrounding nature and landscaping. So, get creative, and start enjoying your outdoor living space today!