14 Oct 5 Ways to Extend the Outdoor Living Season

As the weather turns cooler, many people begin packing away their outdoor furniture and start spending more of their free time inside. However, just because the temperatures are dropping, it doesn’t mean that you can’t enjoy your backyard. In fact, with a few modifications, you can turn your backyard or patio into an extension of your living area and enjoy this space throughout the year. Here are five options to consider.

Install a Swimming Pool Enclosure
A swimming pool enclosure turns your backyard pool into an indoor pool area, giving you and your family the ability to swim throughout the year and in any type of weather. Depending on your preference, you can choose a permanent enclosure or a retractable one. In addition to protecting you from the elements, an enclosure also provides protection against mosquitoes and other outdoor pests.  Of course, that’s a HUGE plus here in Florida.

Build an Outdoor Fireplace / Firepit
Another way to extend your time outdoors is to install an outdoor fireplace. Temperatures drop when the sun goes down, but imagine the warmth by staying close to an outdoor fireplace. Whether you decide to roast marshmallows or just relax by the fire, an outdoor fireplace adds ambiance to your entire backyard and provides an additional area for entertaining guests.

If you don’t have the space or the budget for a complete fireplace, then consider a firepit.  They are fun and affordable.

Construct Outdoor Kitchens
Outdoor kitchens are becoming popular with many homeowners, especially in Florida. By building a kitchen outdoors, you can increase the amount of space you have for entertaining. This is especially convenient if your indoor kitchen is small and doesn’t allow ample room for you to mingle with your guests. Your outdoor cooking area can be as simple as a built-in BBQ with counter space or you can go as lavish as adding a sink, stove top and  a small fridge to hold the libations. As an added bonus, you won’t have to worry about creating a mess indoors and then having to clean the area after your guests depart.

Use Patio Lights
Having adequate lighting on your patio allows you to dine outdoors and relax after the sun sets. You don’t have to settle for the standard porch light. In fact, newer options include outdoor chandeliers, string lights and hanging lanterns.  Ample lighting is important as you entertain outdoors for safety reasons, but it can also be fun and decorative.  See where your imagination can take you.

Install Pool and Spa Lighting
While it’s essential to have lights around your patio, installing the right amount of pool and spa lighting extends your living area deeper into your yard. Even if you aren’t spending time in the water, having a well-lit pool or spa adds ambiance to your entire yard, and this is especially important when you are entertaining guests. Although clear lights are still popular, one of the newest trends in pool and spa lighting is the use of colored lights in and around the water.