Make Your Outdoor Space Usable

 Having outdoor space is proving more valuable than ever. But now that we are facing weather fluctuation , stretching out the life of your porch, backyard, or balcony is the next smart step. Especially in  northern climates,  extending the use of outdoor areas is an increasingly essential step.

Gathering the right gear ahead of time so your family and (a few) guests are comfy means you’ll enjoy the great outdoors for longer.

Try these ideas to retrofit your yard or patio 

1. Fire pit

    

“Outdoor fireplaces or fire pits are a big win once the sun goes down and the weather cools off,” says , a home design and organizational expert .

Choose the best option for your space based on your budget and the square footage in your yard. And don’t forget to pick up a set of extra-long skewers for s’mores. (They’re not just a summertime treat!)

2. Heat lamps

                       

Make like a European sidewalk café and set up standing propane or electric heat lamps. Or consider installing an infrared heating device in your porch ceiling.

“These are a step up from traditional gas options and much sleeker and safer—and streamlined models can be inserted so that they heat a person directly, not the elements around them,” .

3. Plush cushions and blankets

  

                       

No one wants to sit on cold, wrought-iron or plastic deck chairs when the weather turns chilly, so be sure seat cushions and outdoor pillows are thick enough for the season. And a basket full of warm throws is another cozy touch.

4. Privacy screen

                          

Blocking the wind in cooler weather is easy enough with the addition of a wooden wall or screen.

5. Curtained pergola

 

                       

A pergola or gazebo is another upgrade that can take your outdoor space from summer to fall, especially if you add curtains that can be drawn when the temperatures dip.

6. Small cooktop

                   

While a full outdoor kitchen may not be in the budget, setting up a grill or small cooktop may be doable

7. All-weather rugs

8. Extra lighting

Candles and outdoor lamps won’t add warmth per se, but the ambiance they offer is enough keep the chill away. You can’t really overdo outdoor lighting, so go a little nuts with twinkling lights wrapped around pillars, glowing lanterns that act as side tables, Mason jars with tea lights suspended from above, and Tiki torches placed strategically in the yard.

9. Small shed