Baby, it’s cold outside! For many of us, it’s a habit to abandon our outdoor space during the winter months. But, with the right setup, you can enjoy your back yard all year round! Once your yard has been made winter-ready, invite your friends and family to gather ‘round and enjoy cozy days and evenings outdoors with you. You’ll no doubt find that your house becomes a popular winter retreat for those you love.
Set up a Free-Standing Heater
If you’ve ever experienced the warmth and comfort a free-standing heater brings to an outdoor dining table at a restaurant, you already know why we’re recommending one for your place. Most outdoor heaters are powered by propane. They are available in a range of prices and sizes, so you’re sure to find the model that perfectly suits your patio.
Furnish Your Back Yard with a Fire Pit Table
Everyone loves a fire pit, but they aren’t the safest for young children, nor are they terribly sleek or attractive. A fire pit table is the updated, improved take on the classic pit. These tables are weather-resistant, beautiful, and offer the same welcoming warmth we love about a fire pit. Cleaning a fire pit table can be done in a snap, and they are useful spaces whether or not the fire is lit.
Spring for an Outdoor Fireplace
If a space heater and fire pit table aren’t quite your speed, you may wish to invest in a high-quality outdoor fireplace. While this option is by far the most expensive, they are a lovely addition to a large, upscale outdoor space.
Set Up a Patio Cover and Enclosure
Keep the wind from cutting through the warmth you’ve cultivated by installing a patio enclosure and cover. You have multiple options here, including a cover like a pergola, an awning, or a wooden patio cover.
In addition to the warmth a sturdy structure will add, you’ll also be able to hang lanterns and string lights from overhead. Your enclosure can consist of simple heavy curtains, magnetic patio screens, plastic sheeting, or a more elaborate glass system that’s paired with a complete patio covering and enclosure setup.
Twinkling Lights
Speaking of lights, warm lighting can make all the difference in your ability to enjoy your outdoor space after the sun sets early each winter day. Your fire pit table, fireplace, or space heater will add some light, but they won’t light up the entirety of a larger patio.
LED string lights are available in a variety of hues and intensities and have remained a classic due to their effortlessly cheery ambiance. For more permanent options, outdoor chandeliers and recessed lighting will complete a luxurious retreat.
Embrace the Art of Hygge Décor
The Danish (and now also Norwegian) take on staying cozy all winter long is called Hygge (hyoo-guh or hoo-gah). Scandinavian winters are among the longest, darkest, and coldest in the occupied world, so the Danish have developed their own system of staying cheerful and social despite the weather.
Hygge isn’t at all a new trend in the western world, but it may provide inspiration for your outdoor space. Potted evergreen plants and small trees, wreaths, knitted covers over plump throw pillows, plush and thick throws, layered indoor/outdoor rugs, small towers of candles, and any other small touches of joy and comfort will create a Hygge space to help the winter months fly by.
Weather-Ready Outdoor Furniture
Ideally, your patio furniture will be weather-proofed and usable year-round. If you’re purchasing your set now, keep an eye out for furniture that has this key feature. If you already have furniture that isn’t weather-proofed, it’s likely possible to add a finish or coating that will ensure your patio set lasts for many years to come.
Install a Hot Tub as Your Ultimate Luxury
A hot tub may not be in the picture this year, but there’s no time like the present to start saving for the hot tub you’ve always wanted. Nothing else adds the level of warmth, relaxation, and luxurious comfort a hot tub embodies. Whether you’re hanging out with friends or having a romantic evening with your partner, we can’t recommend a hot tub enough.
Do keep in mind that despite their smaller footprint, hot tubs require careful maintenance just like their larger cousin, the in-ground pool. If you aren’t keen on spending the time working on your water purity and chemical balance, don’t hesitate to hire a professional who can do ongoing maintenance services for you.
The Takeaway
There’s no need to head indoors for the duration of the chilly winter months! Whether you want to unwind outdoors after work, spend time with your family, or socialize with your friends on the weekends, you can enjoy your outdoor space all year long. Just add warmth, shelter, décor, and a touch of luxury, then head outdoors!
Thank you for visiting us here at Parks. If you’re a current homeowner, we hope our ideas and recommendations will add to your enjoyment of your beautiful home. If, on the other hand, you’re in search of the right home to purchase, please contact us today.
As the top real estate firm in Middle Tennessee, our team of local real estate agents are uniquely equipped to help you navigate the complexities of the market. We look forward to assisting you during this exciting time!
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