This past summer was certainly different than any other with COVID-19. But at least we had the warm weather and sunshine to allow us to enjoy the outdoors comfortably and be able to see friends outside while maintaining distance. Now with the colder weather approaching, it’s time to think about creating your outdoor space oasis to avoid being cooped up in the house all winter. Whether you have a screened-in porch, an outdoor patio, a deck, or just a bit of yard, here are some tips to make your outdoor space comfortable and inviting, even in the colder weather.
Install a Fire Pit
Nothing says “warmth” like an outdoor fire pit! If you’re handy, build one yourself out of brick or stone, or even some other items you might have lying around, for under $60. Click here for some DIY fire pit ideas. You can also purchase a portable fire pit at your local hardware store. Call Aubuchon Hardware on the Mohawk Trail in Shelburne Falls at 1 413-625-6100 to see what they have available. Be sure to follow your local fire safety rules when having a fire!
Lay Out Plush Cushions and Fuzzy Blankets
While basic outdoor chairs and benches are okay in the summertime, in the wintertime they will feel cold and uninviting. Add some seat cushions, outdoor pillows, and wooly throw blankets and your patio will feel like an outdoor living room!
Add a Heat Lamp
Heat lamps have become one of the most popular outdoor additions to people’s homes this Fall. They are easy to turn on and can quickly warm up an outdoor space. Heat lamps can come as standing lamps which run on propane or electricity or can be installed on the ceiling of a porch to blow hot air into the space.
Roll Out an All-Weather Rug
If you have a stone patio or wooden deck, an all-weather rug can serve multiple functions to cozy up the space. First of all, it will feel great on your feet when walking or sitting and keep your feet from feeling cold from the ground. Secondly, it will add color and flare to make the space visually more appealing and inviting.
Clean and Decorate!
You’ve probably already been keeping up with the falling leaves and branches from Fall weather. But what about the random clutter in the yard? Take time to organize the exterior of the house, even the spaces you can’t see from the road, to make your yard visually more appealing. Then once you’ve gotten it all cleaned up, add some personal touches! String up lights, add some glowing lanterns or tiki torches, hang up outdoor wall art, and anything else that speaks to your style to make the space truly unique to you.
When shopping for items to stage your outdoor space, remember to shop local! Here are some local businesses you can support in your endeavor to cozy up your patio, yard, or porch:
Andy’s and the Oak Shoppe, Greenfield - Outdoor furniture, rugs, and more!
Tractor Supply Co, Greenfield - A variety of outdoor furniture, rugs, and heating supplies.
Aubuchon Hardware, Locations in Montague, Greenfield, and Shelburne - Outdoor firepits and garden supplies
LOOT Found + Made - Antique store in downtown Turners Falls
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https://www.livinglandscapesmatter.com/5-staging-tips-for-the-outdoor-living-room/
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