We usually associate the patio with spring and summer. Once the autumn and winter weather kick in, we tend to forget that we have an outdoor area. This is a mistake because we are ignoring a large and extremely useful part of our home. It is possible to make the best use of the outdoor part of the house year-round and get all the benefits of outdoor relaxing and entertaining, even when it’s chilly outside.
If you find this idea appealing, here are a few tips for enjoying your patio during the winter months.
Make It Weatherproof
Winter weather will do its best to ruin your outdoor experience. It’s up to you to keep it from doing that by creating an aesthetically pleasing shelter. Your chosen type of shelter should be both aesthetic and functional so that it can enable you to spend time outdoors without risking snow or rain ruining your day. A pergola or gazebo could do just that. During the summer months, both could provide shade. For extra privacy and protection, you can opt for a screened porch. If you add a space heater, it will even be a comfy shelter during a snowy day.
Get a Heater
A space heater can do a lot to make your patio cozy and enjoyable during winter. Outdoor heaters can also look great. For example, a gas-powered portable heater with a flame feature can create a cozy vibe while keeping you warm. If this is not your cup of tea, you can go for a more discrete look with a smaller model.
Winter Wonderland
If you’re looking for a proper winter experience, which includes enjoying a cup of hot chocolate with the sound of a crackling fire in the background, a fire pit might be just what you need. Traditional built-in pits with brick walls require a lot of space. Wood-burning pits also create a lot of mess because of soot, ash, and smoke. If you don’t want to deal with this, explore different types and styles of propane fire pits — there is an option for every patio.
Consider Getting a Hot Tub
If you are willing to invest a larger sum of money and you want to add a note of luxury, installing a hot tub is the way to go. A hot tub contrasts the cold weather perfectly, and it will serve its purpose in other seasons as well. A hot tub can be installed in the deck area if you have limited space at your disposal. If you have room to spare, you can create an entire oasis of plants, stones, fountains, etc. For privacy, add a screen.
Get Comfy Furniture
While all the features we’ve covered so far will make your time on the patio pleasant, adding comfy furniture will turn the space into a real oasis. Think bulky outdoor furniture and soft cushions, both weather-resistant, and, of course, soft and insulated blankets that are easy to maintain. Additionally, a couple of rugs on the deck can provide more insulation while also making the space visually warmer and more inviting.
Boost the Brightness
Up until now, we’ve mostly talked about how to make your patio warmer for the winter months. However, it is also important to provide some illumination and give the patio a magical winter touch. You can do that with various lighting options. The tried-and-true patio lighting classic — string lights — is a simple and inexpensive option. An outdoor chandelier can give the space a hint of elegance, but you can also mix and match different styles. For dining occasions, you can light up a few candles to achieve a more romantic atmosphere.
Winter-Friendly Nature
Growing plants on the patio makes sense during every season but winter, right? But because plants are so amazing and accentuate the difference between the interior and the exterior, you’ll want to include them in the colder season as well. Some of the plants that thrive during winter are violas, pansies, hellebores, and boxwood. Of course, this depends on where you live, so it’s best to look for more specific information from USDA Plant Hardiness Zone. You can also ask professionals at your local gardening center for recommendations.
Create an Outdoor Kitchen
If you are dining outside, why not prepare the food on the spot? Once the lighting and heating are in place, you can fire up the grill and prepare a winter-friendly meal perfect for enjoying a family dinner out on the patio. You can further elevate the experience with a fully-equipped outdoor kitchen. It’s a substantial investment, but it is a perfect year-round addition to every patio.
In the end, think beyond the functionality and optimal temperature. While these features are the most important, your goal should be to create a space where you and your family feel pleasant. So, complete everything with details close to your heart, such as artwork, accessories, and gadgets.
