How to Create a Comfortable Patio That You Can Use Throughout the Year

When talking about the patio, most people imagine a place where you can relax when the weather outside is warm and sunny. However, if you design it right, your outdoor living space could serve you all year round. And besides, there’s no reason for you not to enjoy nature whenever you want – winter is just as beautiful as summer, as long as you can stay warm. So, with all that in mind, here are a few tips that should help you create a cozy patio you can enjoy all year. 

Provide additional sources of warmth

One of the first issues that come to mind when talking about using your patio in fall and winter is the cold. Needless to say, you’d need some additional sources of warmth. Now, since we are talking about patios, after all, a fire pit or a fireplace would be perfect. It would also give your eyes something to rest on as fire can be very soothing. If that’s not an option for your patio, you can install some heat lamps instead. Additionally, you can also decorate with softer pillows and blankets when the weather calls for it, and you can always cuddle up with your significant other or furry pets. Cashmere and wool, for example, are great choices for patio blankets – just don’t forget to bring them inside after using them. 

Add more lighting 

Since the number of hours that we get natural light decreases as winter approaches, you should consider installing some additional sources of light. String lights are always a great choice, as they are affordable, easy to install, and they can help you create a more soothing or even romantic atmosphere for those calm winter evenings. Lanterns and candles are also a great choice since they are both durable and decorative. 

Choose the right furniture

To enjoy your patio beyond summer, you also need furniture that can handle the elements. So, opt for pieces made of durable materials, like polyresin wicker, powder-coated steel, and similar. If you live in Australia, you can find quality outdoor furniture in Sydney that is bound to last for a while. Just keep in mind that if it’s upholstered, it might need some additional protection. It would be a good idea to cover it up when you’re not using it, and, as mentioned, bring inside all the cushions and pillows when the weather gets worse. 

Cover it up

Needless to say, to be able to use your patio all year round, you need to have some protection from the elements. For example, you can build a nice pergola above your patio, or if your patio is right next to your house, you can also build a small roof above it. Speaking of protection, you’d need it from the sides as well, especially when it gets windy. You can plant some tall hedges, place some wood panels, or even use a bit thicker curtains. This kind of protection also adds privacy to your patio, which can make it more relaxing for you when you need some peace and quiet after a long day at work. 

Make use of plants

No outdoor living space is complete without some plants, but be careful when choosing plants for your patio. Not every plant can survive the winter, so you need to either choose those than can or opt for having a few different types in flower pots and switching them up as the weather changes. Ornamental grasses and tall flowers, for example, are not a bad choice. Moreover, you can use your plants for creating a good focal point on your patio, and if you position them in a way that makes the sunlight hit them from behind, and add some timeless garden decor, you can create a very beautiful effect too. 

Warm-up with delicious food

Don’t let the snow stop you from enjoying your meals outside. On the contrary, it should be one more reason to start the grill and warm up with some delicious food and drinks. Whether you want to prepare some tasty barbecue and everything that comes with it, or you prefer to stick to wintery delights like marshmallows and hot cocoa, food is one of the best ways to warm up. And once you’re all warmed up and full, you can also have some fun in the snow – there’s no age limit on making snowmen and having snowfalls fights, so don’t hesitate to have some childish fun. 

Having a patio means that you will always have a place where you can relax, soak up the sun, and enjoy the nature around you. It’s a perfect way to de-stress after work, and it’s also perfect for entertaining your friends or bonding with your family and neighbors over a cup of tea or coffee. In short, it’s not all about the appearance but also about the mental health benefits it provides you with. So, design in it a way that would allow you to use it whenever you want, and you’ll be able to enjoy those benefits all year.