Outdoor spaces can be a true oasis in the convenience of your own backyard. Maybe it’s because being outdoors rejuvenates us, or the fact that it’s a simple change of scenery. Either way, there’s something special about your own outdoor space. But, depending on the time of year, it can be a little more difficult to always enjoy your outdoor space. Fortunately, there are ways around this, specifically during the winter. Here are 5 tips for warming up your outdoor space during the winter months.
Make It Comfy
Photo by Peter Goldberg
Cozy is an art. No, really, it’s called Hygge, and it’s the Danish concept of contentment in creating cozy living lifestyle. But it doesn’t take studying cultural art forms of coziness to know how to make your space super comfortable. Winter is the time of year to snuggle up with pillows, cushions and throw blankets. These are perfect for adding to benches and chaise lounges to create a warmer look and feel.
Bring the Heat
Photos courtesy of Telescope Casual
Depending on where you live, you may need extra heat sources. Luckily with today’s innovation, there are several options for outdoor space heating. Fire pits have become a fixture in outdoor spaces, and not just for the winter months either. With many styles to choose from, fire pits offer the perfect excuse to roast marshmallows, gather with friends and family and linger a little longer around the fire.
If you’re unable to host a fire pit in your outdoor space, no need to worry. Patio heaters are also a great option for heating up your outdoor space without needing to worry about flames getting out of control. They even save a little more space than the average fire pit.
Block the Wind
(First) photo courtesy of Universal Screens
With a heat source (fire pit or heater) and insulation (pillows and cushions), the only thing missing from your cozy outdoor winter wonderland is something to block the wind. This is where outdoor retractable shades can help. Available in up to ten colors, outdoor shading systems using SunTex fabrics are not only useful in this case, but are stylish as well.
The benefits are numerous including blocking the wind, raising the temperature in the space by as much as 15 degrees F and daytime privacy. If you want to learn more about these shades, check out our case study about them here.
Brighten Things Up
Photo by Taryn Elliott
This time of the year doesn’t just bring chilly weather. Daylight is shorter, which can also present an issue when spending more time in your outdoor space. In this case, you can brighten up your outdoor space by bringing in fun lighting sources such as lanterns or string lights. Lighting truly can set the ambiance for any space, and especially make a space feel even cozier.
Sprits and Snacks
Lastly, what’s a good time spent in your outdoor space without your favorite snack or glass of wine? It may be small and incidental, but having the right snacks and beverages is also an important part of making your outdoor space impervious to dreary winter days. When it comes to prepping your outdoor space, just make sure you have the right area and supplies to be able to serve beverages and snacks if you’re entertaining.
Tying It All Together
Photo courtesy of Universal Screens
Winter doesn’t have to steal away the ability to spend time in your outdoor space. If you are interested in learning more about space enclosure systems using Phifer’s outdoor shading fabrics, contact us, live chat on our website or give us a call at 800-221-5497 to speak with a customer service agent.
