Did you know you’re probably on trend with the at-home lifestyle movement without trying? If you enjoyed plenty of grilled meals and lounge time on your deck or patio, you’re part of a culture shift that’s embraced outdoor living and affordable home decor in a wide variety of ways. Some military homeowners even think of their outdoor spaces as an extension of their indoor spaces!
However, if you haven’t maximized your outdoor area’s home decor to become a gathering center for friends and family, don’t worry, there’s still time to take advantage of cozy weather. With a few updates, outdoor living can extend well into the colder months. It's up to you when to call it quits for the season!
To relax outside during the cooler months, small updates such as adding seasonal colors make a strong statement with little commitment or money. But to go big, a couple of luxury updates below will make neighbors envious.
Update and Repair
If you’re planning to expand or improve the patio or deck, you won’t be alone. The cooler temperatures tempt homeowners to take on projects that have been put off during the sweltering heat. You may even encounter some shortages or contractor delays (especially if you live in a warmer climate) because so many want to take advantage of their outdoor areas.
Complete this fall home maintenance checklist to care for and enjoy all of your home’s benefits.
Emphasize the Outline of an Outdoor Room
Is a pergola in the works to provide cover? Or does a screened porch offer an at-home getaway feel? Work with the existing footprint to square off space to create a “room,” complete with outdoor furniture and amped-up home decor effects like creative lighting.
Many covered porches have the flat space to hang panels of fabric to define the space further. Flannel blankets draped either from hooks or adjustable curtain rods add interest and provide privacy.
An outdoor rug instantly designates a gathering area, while an updated light source makes up for early sunsets and gives off a festive glow. For more warmth, bring out the comfy blankets and soft pillows for a snuggle-ready atmosphere. Flameless candles are also an inexpensive way to bring in ambiance.
Need some fall inspiration for the inside of the house? Check out It’s Time to Freshen Up Your Fall Home Decor.
Incorporate a Heat Source
If roasted marshmallows were dessert du jour during the warm months, you probably have a fire pit in the yard. Are you tired of the mess and constant wood gathering? Bring the heat closer with a cleaner outdoor heating source. Some safe-for-deck-space heaters run on propane, natural gas, or butane. No muss, no fuss with the flick of a switch!
Tower-style outdoor heaters have become more affordable and are not only sold in home improvement stores but also in big box outlets such as Costco. Their heat is so efficient that the entire family will be warm while tailgating at home and watching hours of football.
Add Fall or Winter Color
There’s no need to purchase an entirely new line of furniture for fall and winter, as a small update, such as adding an autumn color into the existing theme, does the trick as affordable home decor. Orange and deep red work well with existing green fabrics, while brown anchors lighter colors and adds an earthiness to the setting.
Embrace the Holidays
Take decorating up a notch and add traditional or nontraditional fall and, later, winter home decorations. Gourds are always pleasant, but new color twists on faux pumpkins, such as a deep navy or flannel fabric, add unexpected style. Inexpensive potted mums of all colors last well into November, especially if the old blooms are regularly removed. They make a huge impact when grouped.
Potted evergreen trees, small and large, are perfect for home decorating. Outdoor lights and ornaments found in nature, such as acorns and pine cones, are a great start, but with a bit of creativity, you can also care for backyard animals with birdseed ornaments. Holiday guests will love the vibe!
Create an Entertainment and Beverage Station
Because a hot chocolate bar is entertainment in itself, combine the best of both worlds and pre-plan to offer the ingredients for a festive drink like hot cider or a spicy cocktail. Add tabletop and yard games if the space is available. Re-purpose an old dresser or buffet to store the items when not in use. An entertainment station at the ready makes for a quick transition from stressing to relaxing.
Luxury Outdoor Updates
If there was ever a time to justify an outdoor television or hot tub, it might be now, since home buyers are waiting patiently for more inventory and lower interest rates. Take these items off your wish list and add one (or both!) to your newly renovated outdoor space. Keep in mind, these projects aren’t for the casual home project manager. You’ll need to talk with professionals about everything from cost and installation to safety requirements.
Don’t dread the change of season! Embrace the change and take advantage of the new opportunities to stay at home and appreciate outdoor living well beyond Labor Day.
