Prolong Patio Season
Patio season, a beloved summer tradition, need not come to a close when the air turns crisp and leaves begin to fall. With a few thoughtful adjustments and additions, you can relish your outdoor space for an extended period, immersing yourself in the vibrant autumn colors and cool, refreshing air. Below, we offer you a guide on how to stretch patio season well into fall, crafting a warm and welcoming atmosphere for both yourself and your guests.
Adding Warmth: Embrace the Coziness of Fall
Staying warm is a primary challenge when transitioning your patio into the fall season. Luckily, there are numerous options to infuse warmth into your outdoor oasis:
- Patio Heaters: These devices employ propane, natural gas, or electricity to produce radiant heat that can comfortably warm a substantial area. You can select from various styles and sizes, such as freestanding, tabletop, wall-mounted, or hanging, to suit your budget, aesthetic preferences, and the available space.
- Fire Pits: These versatile containers can hold firewood, charcoal, or gas to create a natural, crackling flame that delivers both heat and ambiance. Crafted from materials like metal, stone, brick, or ceramic, they can be purchased pre-made or constructed with some DIY prowess.
- Outdoor Fireplaces: Designed for open-air use, these structures bear a resemblance to indoor fireplaces. Available in both built-in and portable models, they can utilize wood, gas, or gel fuel. Outdoor fireplaces can serve as a striking focal point for your patio, introducing elegance and charm.
- Blankets and Throws: These simple yet effective additions provide warmth and comfort to your patio space. Opt for blankets and throws crafted from cozy, durable materials such as wool, fleece, or faux fur. Be sure to select colors and patterns that harmonize with your patio decor or embrace the fall theme.
Illuminating Your Space: Overcoming the Diminished Daylight
The fall season challenges us with shorter days and longer nights, requiring some well-placed illumination to maintain a bright and inviting atmosphere. Consider these lighting options:
- String Lights: Strings of small lights can be artfully hung around your patio’s perimeter, pergola, canopy, umbrella, or trees. This placement can create a festive, romantic ambiance while adding a touch of charm and sparkle.
- Lanterns: Portable lights are perfect for placement on tables, floors, or hooks. They can operate with candles, batteries, or solar power to emit a soft, warm glow. With various shapes, sizes, colors, and styles to choose from, you can select lanterns that best align with your preferences. Ikea has a great selection and will deliver for only $5 to most cities with a Staples pick-up location.
- Spotlights: Fix these lights to walls, fences, or poles to illuminate specific areas or patio features. They use energy-efficient LED bulbs or solar panels, providing bright light as well as convenience with built-in sensors or timers for automatic activation.
- Candles: Classic sources of light, candles offer a cozy and intimate ambiance for your patio. Available in wax, oil, or gel formats, candles come in different scents, colors, shapes, and holders to infuse your space with variety and personality.
Infusing Color: Embrace the Vibrancy of Fall
One of the joys of fall patio season lies in the breathtaking seasonal colors. Elevate your patio’s charm and ensure it resonates with the vibrant surroundings by adding splashes of color that echo the spirit of autumn:
- Plants: Natural sources of color can breathe life and vibrancy into your patio. Select plants suitable for the fall season, such as mums, pansies, asters, ornamental kale, or ornamental grasses, which come in hues of reds, oranges, yellows, and purples.
- Cushions and Pillows: Enhance your patio furniture with cushions and pillows made from weather-resistant materials, such as polyester or acrylic. Available in a range of colors and patterns, you can tailor your choices to match your plants or embrace the fall theme.
- Accessories: These items add character and color to your patio space. Select accessories tied to the fall season or holidays, like pumpkins, scarecrows, wreaths, lanterns, or flags. Alternatively, choose accessories that mirror your unique personal style and interests.
Remember, patio season isn’t confined to summer. With the addition of warmth, light, and a touch of color, you can extend your patio season deep into the fall, crafting an outdoor sanctuary that is cozy, welcoming, and perfect for yourself and your guests. By following these tips, you can savor the beauty of fall in your very own patio retreat.
