Boosted by garden furniture, nice flowers and good weather, the outdoor living space is just something else in the summertime. When it comes to winter, everyone's covering these things up, while flowers seem to disappear for the season.
The truth is you don't have to overlook the time spent outdoors just because it's cold outside. Sure, you won't be able to enjoy time in your garden on a rainy day, but there are times when you can still spend quality time outdoors. Here's how to enjoy a nice outdoor living space year round.
If your seating area is exposed, a roof can allow you to spend time there even when it's raining. Wind is your only problem at this point. It makes no difference if the sitting area is on a deck or just on the grass, you can always add a roof on it.
A bit of shade will also be helpful in the summertime if it's too hot outside. While a cheap gazebo may seem like the best option, the truth is you'll need a more stable structure to resist different weather conditions, such as wind.
If your budget is generous, you can also invest in skylights, yet they're not too good if you're trying to avoid hot sun in the summertime.
When you spend time outdoors in the cold season, you'll need a few layers to keep yourself warm. And then, even if you're well dressed, the fact that you're just sitting down and not doing anything could still be an issue because you'll get cold anyway.
From this point of view, you can add a bit of warmth to your outdoor area by installing a fire pit or even an outdoor fireplace. A patio heater is also a good idea. But why stop there? You can still add more warmth by including outdoor blankets or throws which is perfect for chilly evenings.
These things come in all shapes, sizes and designs, so it's fairly simple to find something suitable for your budget.
You can get a deck installed for your outdoor terrace or if you like nature, simply cover the area with some good looking gravel and call it a day. Make sure you install it correctly or you'll end up with grass and weeds popping up here and there.
Pavers are another good option that are easy to maintain and withstand harsh weather conditions. Concrete offers a sleek, modern look and can be customized with stains.
When on a hard surface, your outdoor space won't be affected by recurring lawn maintenance, overgrown grass and other plants during the cold season. You can just have some quality time outdoors regardless of the rest of the garden.
Rain and wind are the main issues associated with spending time outdoors during the cold season, but that doesn't mean you can't do it. If wind is your biggest problem, create your own wind block by the outdoor seating area.
There are more options here. For instance, you can get waterproof drapes or even roller shades that can be rolled up or down depending on the weather. If you want a more natural alternative, go for a row of evergreens, it's just as effective.
Another excellent alternative is to install trellises with climbing plants. Not only do they offer wind protection but also bring a wall of color and texture.
This one asks for an investment, yet it depends on what kind of hot tub you prefer. For example, you can get a professional option that will cost you a few thousands, whether it's in ground or above the ground. But at the same time, you can also get the cheap inflatable alternative.
A hot tub under a gazebo represents a good option to spend quality time outdoors. There's nothing like relaxing in hot water while it's freezing cold outside. Then again, it requires some sort of a cover, mainly to protect you against weather conditions.
You can also boost your relaxation time with some extras. Mood lighting, like LED lights, can make evening soaks more relaxing. And with a Bluetooth sound system, you can listen to your favorite music while you unwind.
In the end, creating a lovely outdoor living space that you can enjoy throughout the year is easier than you might think. By following these ideas, you can make the most of your outdoor space, offering comfort and relaxation. So go ahead and implement them to have the perfect gatherings or quiet moments of peace.