Embracing the Cozy Vibes of Fall
There’s a certain excitement about being in Aberdeen, UK for the first time during the fall. I’m usually back in my hometown of Montreal this time of year, so it’s like I’m seeing the city (and my newly renovated property) through new eyes as the seasons change. While we’re not quite ready for winter yet, I’m embracing all of the cozy vibes of fall.
Between a busy summer and some last-minute finishes on our landscaping with the renovation, I feel like I didn’t really get a chance to enjoy our patio this year. But I’m determined to extend our patio season a bit longer while we have the chance. After all, who says outdoor entertaining has to be limited to the summer months?
Extending Patio Season with Clever Design
One of the key ways I’m extending our patio season is by thoughtfully designing the space to be usable even on colder days. We built out our BBQ and seating areas in a way that allows us to still enjoy this space when the temperatures start to drop. And the pergola we have covering the main entertaining area provides great protection against the elements.
As I learned from a fellow homeowner in Kelowna, anything that extends BBQ season is a must. So we made sure to invest in high-quality, weather-resistant outdoor furniture that can withstand the changing seasons. The Hauser Furniture Nova Sofa Set and Lollygagger chairs we chose are not only stylish, but built to last.
We also made a point of getting covers for all of our patio furniture so we can properly winterize it when the weather truly gets too cold. Longevity of our outdoor living pieces was a top priority, as we want to be able to enjoy them from spring to fall for years to come.
Bringing the Warmth with Fireplaces and Firepits
Another feature of our backyard that I’m excited to utilize more this fall is our fireplace and firepit areas. We have one firepit just off the master bedroom/living room, and another down by the “fun house” (as I like to call it).
As the experts at ShadeFX Canopies point out, firepits and outdoor fireplaces are perfect for adding warmth and ambiance during the cooler months. The kids love gathering around the fire, and so do my husband and I. It’s the perfect way to take in the fresh fall air while staying cozy.
And speaking of staying cozy, we’ll also be leveraging strategic lighting to extend our patio enjoyment into the evening hours. Twinkling tea lights, string lights, and other ambient illumination will help create a relaxing, inviting atmosphere as the sun sets earlier.
Extending the Fun with Covered Comfort
One final tip I’ve picked up for prolonging our patio season is the addition of a retractable shade or pergola cover. According to the team at ShadeFX, this not only enhances the aesthetics of the space, but provides the flexibility to retract the shade when needed. It’s the perfect way to protect against sudden showers or the midday sun, giving us the freedom to cook, dine, and entertain in comfort.
And if the weather really takes a turn, we can always retreat to the warmth of our custom patio igloos – a trend I’ve seen popping up at trendy spots like Lock 50 Restaurant in Worcester. These cozy, transparent enclosures let us continue enjoying our outdoor oasis, no matter the forecast.
Embracing the Best of Both Worlds
At the end of the day, my goal is to find ways to extend our patio season and get the most out of our beautiful outdoor living space, even as the weather starts to cool. By thoughtfully designing the area, incorporating strategic heating and lighting elements, and leveraging clever shade solutions, I know we can embrace the cozy vibes of fall while still soaking up the fresh air.
And who knows – with a little creativity, maybe we’ll even be able to keep the patio fun going right through the winter! After all, ABC Home & Renovations is all about helping homeowners like me get the most out of our spaces, no matter the season. So bring on the hygge, Aberdeen – this patio is ready for its extended moment in the spotlight!
