If you often wonder how to best make use of your patio space in the winter in Kansas City, you’re not alone. Unfortunately, outdoor spaces can go wholly untouched throughout winter because they are either not fitted with the right amenities or because they need a refresh.
In order to not miss out on half of the capacity of your outdoor or patio space, incorporate a few design tips and features into your backyard layout. Then, invite some friends and family over to enjoy and make memories together this winter.
Tip #1: Add seasonal features
One sure way to get people gathered outside is to get a fire going. Not only will a fire pit or cooking hearth provide much-needed warmth in cold temperatures or climates, but you can also make dinner or even s’mores together as an activity. Additionally, get an outdoor grill and cook under the stars.
Adding a covered deck or awning to your outdoor space can help keep you dry and warm during the winter season. If you can, adding a three-season room or lean-to addition to your home, or even enclosing your patio, can give you more options for being outside. It can provide necessary shade during the summer as well, making it an all-season versatile feature great for every backyard and home.
During the winter, the days get shorter and the nights get darker. Outdoor lighting can illuminate your patio and make it possible to stay outdoors later. Furthermore, you can add fairy lights or other lighting motifs to your patio to create a bright oasis. Try ceramic sconces, hanging lanterns or lighted walkways to bring light to your backyard.
Tip #2: Incorporate more winter patio ideas for your home
Reinforcing your patio with seasonal features is one piece of the puzzle. Another is learning to incorporate a few creative ideas into the design of your outdoor space to maximize its utility and style. For example, you can add evergreen trees into your landscape for privacy when all your deciduous trees have shed their leaves. Intersperse spring and fall trees to keep your landscaping interesting every season of the year.
Give your patio furniture a facelift or replace it for a whole new winter look. Never underestimate the power of refreshing a tired space. Even adding a new umbrella to your outdoor dining table or upgrading your dirty or broken seating furniture can have an impact. You will want to spend more time in an updated area of your home and will be more likely to invite friends and family over to enjoy the outdoors together.
One last way to get the most out of using your patio in winter is to upgrade your hardscaping. Low-maintenance and stylish, good hardscaping is a backyard feature that elevates your home to the next level. It can be added to both front and backyard spaces and can feature a wide array of stone and concrete options.
For more information on hardscaping, or to discuss your winter patio ideas with an expert in Kansas City, contact MSE Hardscape Design and Installation today.