Creating a comfortable outdoor living space that can be enjoyed year-round is about finding the right balance between heating, cooling, and weatherproofing solutions. Here, we've gathered insights from experts across the industry to help you design a space that keeps you warm in winter, cool in summer, and protected from the elements—all without sacrificing style.
Heating Solutions for Cooler Months
When the temperature drops, having effective outdoor heating is essential for extending the usability of your outdoor space. According to Simon Cullen from EcoSmart Fire, one of the most important features for a comfortable outdoor space is seating that pairs well with your heating source. He highlights the versatility of ethanol fire pits, which can be incorporated into fire tables. "The beauty of especially ethanol fire pits is they can easily be incorporated into fire tables," says Simon, which makes them both a source of warmth and a practical surface for entertaining.
Darren Whittaker from Mensa Heating champions the use of infrared heaters for outdoor spaces. "For us, our under-table heaters are pretty difficult to compete with," says Darren, noting that their heaters use infrared technology to transfer heat directly to people and objects, not the surrounding air. This method allows for greater efficiency and comfort, particularly in outdoor settings where wind can otherwise whisk heat away.
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Multifunctional Heating for Social Gatherings
When it comes to fire pits, Ricardo Fioravanti of Unique Fire Pits emphasises the importance of multifunctionality. “The good thing with Unique Fire Pits is there are accessories to suit all of the fire pits, including ember screens and barbecue grills,” says Ricardo. These accessories allow homeowners to transform their fire pit into a cooking station, making it a social focal point for both warmth and dining.
Similarly, Daryl Crowley from Jetmaster Fireplaces advocates for wood-burning fire pits, which produce significant radiant heat and create an inviting atmosphere. “Wood-burning fireplaces, we feel, are the best effective solutions because they produce a massive amount of radiant heat,” he explains, noting that wood provides a quicker and more primal warmth than gas alternatives.
Cooling Solutions for Warmer Months
In the heat of summer, staying cool can be just as important as staying warm in the winter. Sonny Singh from Bromic points out that creating shaded areas with pergolas or retractable awnings is key to making an outdoor space more comfortable. "Fans and misting systems are great for cooling without cluttering the space," Sonny says. He also mentions that Bromic's platinum and tungsten heaters can be dimmed during cooler spring or autumn evenings to maintain comfort without overwhelming heat.
Weatherproofing Without Sacrificing Style
When it comes to weatherproofing, maintaining a balance between functionality and aesthetics is critical. Renee Briggs from Milkcan Outdoor offers practical advice on protecting outdoor furniture and fire pits. She suggests using waterproof covers and weather-resistant materials for both seating and heating elements. "We've got accessories for our fire pits, including waterproof covers, which keep everything clean and protected while still looking sleek and stylish," says Renee.
The Phoenix fire pit's timeless design enhances any outdoor entertaining area, creating a welcoming atmosphere for year-round gatherings with family and friends.
For a more robust solution, Sonny Singh recommends incorporating retractable awnings or glass barriers to block airflow and retain heat without detracting from the aesthetic appeal of your outdoor space. "You don’t have to compromise on style when weatherproofing. It’s about using durable, high-performance materials designed for both function and form," he explains.
Creating a Flexible, Year-Round Space
Finally, flexibility is key to designing a space that can be used year-round. CJ Mackay from Castworks suggests opting for multifunctional products like fire pits that double as cooking appliances. "A good way of spending more time outside is to have something that is multifunctional," CJ says. He highlights the social aspect of outdoor cooking and the benefits of creating a space where people can gather around and enjoy both food and warmth.
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Whether you're staying warm around a fire pit, cooling off under a shaded pergola, or protecting your outdoor space with weatherproof furniture, these expert tips will help you create an outdoor area that’s as functional as it is stylish—no matter the season.