Although our San Diego and southern California weather is temperate, we still notice a change when winter comes around. Yes, our daytime temps are still perfect for enjoying the outdoors, but when the sun goes down a source of heat in your backyard oasis will be much appreciated. We invite you to entertain these ideas for adding warmth and being able to enjoy the outdoors this winter all season long.
Fire Up the Warmth with a Fire Pit
Perhaps the easiest and most convenient way to add warmth in your outdoor living room is by including a fire pit, or several fire pits. A fire pit is a wonderful way to anchor a seating area as it is a place where people naturally tend to gather round. And a gas fire pit is so easy to start – merely flip a switch – that it won’t take any time at all to get a toasty fire blazing.
Today there are plenty of options for a stylish fire pit that will fit any outdoor space. We like to add a pair of fire urns on either side of a walkway and perhaps a fire bowl at the edge of a pool deck. You could even place a firefall along a patio wall. There are also cooking fire pits for entertaining. With so many elegant and modern styles, fire pits have the potential to transform your backyard into a breathtaking oasis punctuated by leaping flames.
Patio Heaters Warm a Large Space
If you have a covered patio or deck, the addition of a wall or ceiling mounted heater will really make the space cozy. These outdoor infrared heaters can be placed all the way along the perimeter of the overhang or roof for maximum coverage. This turns an outdoor living room into a space that is just as warm and inviting as your indoor living room, especially if you include sofas, a TV, stereo system and bar cart.
Get Close
Along with the idea of adding infrared heaters or even standing patio heaters to your outdoor space is the need to bring your furniture closer to your home. After all, no one wants to trek across the yard just to get to a place where they can enjoy a bit of warmth. This also condenses the area that needs a source of heat for comfort, making it easier to heat. You might even want to consider placing an outdoor dining set on your back deck for holiday entertaining; the closer it is to the doors, the easier it is to ferry food, dishes and beverages back and forth from the kitchen.
Warm and Cozy Extras
We always recommend that in addition to a fire pit, fireplace or outdoor heaters you keep a big basket of throws and blankets handy. Even when the fire is going strong, a blanket across your legs or shoulders adds another layer of cozy warmth.
Be sure to consider outdoor lighting, as well. Pathways should be clearly illuminated to prevent trips and falls. A romantic string of outdoor bulbs always transforms your backyard into a romantic space with their soft illumination. And just the sight of glowing bulbs makes the whole area feel warmer and cozier.
Isn’t it time you added a few extras to help you enjoy the outdoors all winter season long?