4 Ways to Extend the Outdoor Living Season This Fall

Fall is in the air, and for many that means a somber farewell to the natural mood boost that comes from spending time outdoors. Although outdoor living is most synonymous with the summer season in Pennsylvania, you don’t have to pack up the patio just yet. With a little inspiration, you can transform your backyard into a cozy retreat that will allow you to spend more time outside this fall — and reap the feel-good benefits.

Want to get more from your outdoor space in the coming months? Here are four tips to make the most of your backyard this season:

Create a Covered Area

As the crisp fall air sets in, a covered area is key to feeling comfortable outside. An open-air pavilion can provide protection from the weather while also defining your space. When considering a pavilion, first determine where you will spend most of your time outdoors. Is it important to be close to the home, creating a seamless indoor/outdoor transition? Are you expanding a pool area? Or is there another part of the yard that inspires you? Pavilions can be attached to the home, providing coverage over an existing patio, built on top of poolside pavers, or added to green space when anchored by a cement slab. Many styles are available to help bring your vision to life, including low-maintenance vinyl, budget-friendly wooden beams, and durable and rugged timber frames.

Maximize Comfort

Whether your dream is to create a game-day destination or relaxing retreat, incorporating comfortable seating and cozy accessories will help to make your outdoor space feel like home. Divide the space into zones for lounging, entertaining and dining. Pull inspiration from your indoor style to enhance each area. Add an outdoor rug, soften outdoor furniture with throw pillows, and include a few candles or cordless accent lamps for ambience. Don’t forget about entertainment elements as well, such as a weatherproof TV or an outdoor projector.

Warm Things Up

Investing in a few heating elements will keep your outdoor space toasty even in the chill of autumn’s breeze. Both infrared and electric heaters provide consistent warmth in open-air spaces. Look for a combination of overhead elements that can be installed within the ceiling of a pavilion or covered porch, and freestanding towers that can be moved as needed. Wood-burning or propane fireplaces are also popular options that add to the cozy ambience.

Bring the Indoors Out

Extending the living space outdoors is as much about function as it is about style. For those who love to cook and entertain, equipping your space with a fully functional outdoor kitchen can streamline the process without sacrificing indoor amenities. Simple outdoor kitchens can include as little as a sink, grill and counter space. For a truly luxurious experience, consider adding a fridge, cabinetry, kegerator or wine cooler, or even a brick pizza oven. Be sure all materials are specified for outdoor spaces to ensure durability. For example, stainless steel, granite, and high-density polyethylene (HDPE) can withstand prolonged exposure to the elements and UV rays and add beautiful style.

From dining alfresco to movie nights under the stars, cozy evenings by the fire and football on TV in the crisp fall air, the possibilities are endless when you create a three-season outdoor living space. As you envision your backyard makeover, browse a collection of custom-built projects from Homestead Structures for inspiration: https://www.homesteadstructures.com/.