When you have invested large amounts of effort and money into your outdoor space it only makes sense the try to get the most use out of it that you possibly can. There’s a number of ideas you can easily implement to move your beautiful outdoor space from summer to fall and, even, winter so that you can enjoy this space you’ve worked so hard to build (almost) all year round. Here’s a few ways to ensure you are getting the most out of your outdoor space no matter the temperature outside.
Fire Places
There’s almost nothing better than snuggling up next to a fire with a warm drink to enjoy the beautiful autumn days. There’s a number of ways you can install a fireplace in your outdoor space, including an outdoor fireplace, a fire pit or you can warm the entire area with a chiminea. The option you select will ultimately depend on your budget and the space you have available. Outdoor fire places usually take up much more real estate than a fire pit does and cost more money.
With a covered outdoor space, nothing will add ambiance to the area like a fire place will. A fire place will make it feel like you’re bringing the indoors outside and you can even choose the design you prefer with any number of finishes. If you have an outdoor gas line you can create a natural gas fireplace in your outdoor space. The options are endless for building a fire place or fire pit to bring warmth to your outdoor space when the days turn cooler.
Outdoor Heating Systems
Fire places are great for having a few people cozy up to keep warm, but if you have a larger outdoor space or enjoy having lots of friends and family over for entertaining then you might want to consider a bigger outdoor heating system. For a heating system you can select from patio heaters of infrared heaters.
Patio heaters normally look like big lamps and are typically powered by propane tanks (but natural gas and electric versions are sometimes available). They can be positioned strategically around your outdoor space so they give off heat evenly distributed and keep everyone warm and cozy. This way your guests don’t all have to crown around a fire place.
Infrared heaters are kind of similar to patio heaters, but they do offer an option that patio heaters don’t. Infrared heaters are normally electric, and they do come in a lamp-style version but they also offer an option that is ceiling mounted. These are especially helpful if you don’t have a lot of extra room with your outdoor space but still want to entertain friends and family during the colder weather. You can put these heaters on the ceiling of your covered patio or deck. The only requirement is that you have access to electric outlets outside your home.
Make the Space Cozy
Even if you have these outdoor space warmers, you can make your patio feel cozier by specific décor. Make sure you have big, plush cushions on your furniture instead of metal or plastic alone. These cushions will make your space feel warmer for guests to sit on. You can also hang curtains or patio shades so that you almost enclose your space and keep the warmth within your enclosure.
With some small changes to your outdoor space you can easily convert it into a cold weather friendly area.