If you miss the summer and all the times you used to spend outside, don’t fret. You don’t have to wait 6 months to take your morning coffee, your brunch or your evening drink to your patio! Here are a few improvements that will allow you to enjoy your patio even during the winter.
Pick weather-resistant furniture
Moving your seating inside as soon as the summer ends is not only the killer for your back and your furniture, it also means your patio will go unused for the entire winter. So, make sure to invest in some weather-resistance furniture this winter. Opt for models that won’t rust and seating that won’t get moldy with moisture and faded and damaged by snow and rain. You might also want to look for pieces that have some weight to them so they can withstand strong winter winds.
Light it up
Having proper lighting is super important, especially during long winter nights. You can install some wall sconces or invest in ceiling lights, but the best effect is achieved with some dreamy string lights. Since it’s never smart to play with electricity yourself or to ignore some existing issues, it’s a good idea to call an electrician to take care of this. You can also layer your lighting with some candles and lanterns that will add style and romance to your space.
Add some warmth
Your patio will instantly look warmer if you invest in cozy furniture, but hard winters need some extra work. If you want to go a bit more natural, you can opt for a fire pit that will create a perfect winter wonderland vibe. They’ve become the most popular type of outdoor fire feature for a reason, and they come in a variety of shapes, styles and sizes. Just make sure to keep it away from your furniture.
Block the wind
Oftentimes, it’s not the temperature that is the problem, it’s the strong wind. Winter winds can chill you to the bone and make you run inside for cover. So, if you have an open patio, you can consider investing in tarps or screens that will block the wind and other elements while allowing you to enjoy the view. It’s best to invest in adjustable closures that can be removed in the summer and allow you to use your patio all year-round.
Surround it with beauty
No matter how stylish your patio is, if it’s surrounded by clutter and gross snow slush, it will never be completely comfortable and beautiful. So, make sure to trim your greenery, pick up the leaves from your lawn and tackle the snow from your driveway. However, this year, you can ditch the shovel and work smarter by installing a snow melting system to your paths and driveways. No matter how much snow you get, you’ll always have clear and safe paths and a beautiful and clean view from your patio.
Snuggle up
Finish off your winter patio with a few warm additions that will allow you to stay snug as a bug even during the harshest of winters. Get a few heavy-duty blankets that will keep you warm, but also look amazing when thrown over your seating. You can also invest in an outdoor rug that will not only add some warmth to your feet, but also anchor your patio and tie everything together. And if you add an outdoor bar to your space, you’ll definitely manage to stay warm no matter the weather!
These updates will not only make your patio much more comfortable and functional all year round, but also boost its aesthetic appeal. Now, you’ll get to enjoy the lazy winter mornings and peaceful winter evenings from the comfort of your new and improved patio.
Written by Chloe Taylor. Chloe is a graduated journalist from Adelaide who loves everything related to decor, aesthetic and lifestyle topics. She is also passionate about photography. Her biggest dream is to travel the whole world and take some stunning photographs of beautiful places.