Cooler Weather Preparations: 6 Ways to Create a Cosy Outdoor Sitting Area
Everyone enjoys spending their free time outdoors. If you have a backyard, patio or garden, you should be able to use it all the time. Even when the weather is cooler and colder, why sit inside the house? There are some simple additions you can make to your outdoor space and use it during the cold months.
Add a Gas Heater
No one wants to sit outdoors and shiver in the cold. Nowadays you have plenty of heating options to prepare your sitting area for the colder weather, and gas heaters are one of the best choices you can make. There’s a variety of gas heaters for patio spaces that can complement the exterior and make you warm and comfortable.
There are two main types of gas heaters, natural gas and propane. The first option is an eco-friendlier one. You can add it with permanent installation or with gas tanks you need to change from time to time. Many homeowners mount them on walls or ceilings and connect them to their home’s natural gas supply.
Their installation requires professional help because there’s a chance of leakage which can be very dangerous. If you don’t like permanent installations, you can buy tanks. Keep in mind that once the tank is empty, you need to replace it to heat the space. They not only generate enough heat to warm up the space but also come in many designs that look chic and modern and can enhance the patio’s appearance.
Propane heaters take only several minutes to install. They’re very simple to handle and use, and their biggest advantage is the portability. They have no connection to output pipes. They are easier to maintain and less expensive to get than electric ones. They can heat up a large area, which can make those group gatherings a lot more pleasant.
You can place them on the patio, in the garden or the backyard. In case you want to use them inside, make sure the room is well-ventilated because propane can cause breathing problems. Their only disadvantage is that you need to replace the tank as soon as it’s empty to keep heating up the area. If you have small children or pets around, look for heaters with safety features that can prevent gas leakages and fires.
Consider a Firepit
Is there anything cosier than sitting around the firepit, feeling the warmth and enjoying some time with your closest family and friends? Fire pits are an amazing way to add heat, and make the patio more comfortable and warmer at the same time. They can be a true centrepiece and focal point that adds character to the space.
Before buying the pit, you should have a clear idea of how you want it to look. When it comes to materials, steel and stone are the best two options. Steel is lightweight and can be moulded into many shapes and designs. However, if it’s not coated right, it can get rust after a while.
Stone on the other hand is much heavier, often permanently installed and can stand up to every weather condition. Depending on the space you have available, mind the size of the pit. Don’t make it too small because it won’t serve its purpose. If you buy it too big, it can overtake the area and not leave room for a seating area or a table.
Just like gas heaters for patio spaces, firepits can run on several sources. Wood is a traditional choice that brings a rustic, earthy feel. It’s a low-cost fuel and brings incomparable cosiness to the space. Propane is good if you don’t want to deal with chopping wood or cleaning the ashes. It’s easy to use, safe and cheap. Natural gas is also an option.
Don’t Forget the Lighting
Never underestimate the power of lighting. It can transform the space and create a mood on its own. If you choose the right type of lighting, your patio will be the cosiest, most relaxing space in the house. String lights are a great option. They have a subtle glow that creates a nice soothing atmosphere.
They’re very versatile and you can hang them in so many ways. You can twist them around trees or the fence, hand them above the sitting area or even lower between two posts. Lanterns are also a nice choice. They can be modern or traditional depending on the surroundings. You can hang them around or place them on tables or benches. You can even choose colours that complement the fire from the outdoor gas heater.
Include Weather-Resistant Furniture
If you want to fully experience cosines and relaxation, your patio deserves a nice seating area. But since it’s outdoors, it should be weather-resistant. It should be able to withstand harsh weather conditions, wind, snow, rain and UV rays. Look for and invest in high-quality materials like teak, steel and polyresin wicker. They can stand up to harsh weather and last for many years to come with just a little cleaning and maintenance.
Stock Up on Blankets
It’s really helpful to have a warm blanket during chilly afternoons and nights. Sometimes we need extra warmth and blankets can provide it. Choose warm material such as wool, cotton or faux fur. No matter which one you choose, take note of the care instructions, so they last for a long time.
Blankets come in many sizes. You can stock up on several single–person blankets or grab a few bigger ones so two people can use them simultaneously. The designs are plenty you can easily incorporate them into the outdoor design. Choose colours that match the outdoor palette, so you create a cohesive space.
Brighten Up with Colourful Decor
Soft furnishings and artwork, as well as cosy outdoor accessories like pillows, throws, and blankets in bright colours can give the space a touch of warmth. One of the best things about accessories and décor is how simple it is to switch them up with the seasons.
During the summer you can have nice pastels and when colder months come you can change them up to something more warm-coloured. To avoid having a bland space, bring out a few bright-coloured pillows, vases, tablecloths or lanterns.