Transition Your Outdoor Space for Fall

Photo: Courtesy of Creative Living

As the evenings grow cooler, outdoor living spaces become cozy retreats with the right amenities. Outdoor firepits, heaters, and lanterns transform patios and gardens into warm, inviting havens. These elements not only extend the usability of outdoor areas into the colder months but also enhance the ambiance, creating perfect settings for gatherings and relaxation.

Outdoor Fire Pits

Outdoor fire pits are a popular feature for any backyard. They serve as focal points for social gatherings, where friends and family can gather around the flickering flames to share stories and enjoy the warmth even on a crisp Fall or Winter night. Your outdoor season is extended to virtually year round when there is a fire pit. Design styles are infinite too, from live-steel to sleek, artistic powder-coated metal designs, or softer-edged, organic concrete. While some are built-in fixtures, more modern styles are like furniture, offering flexibility to move or change them as needed.

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Metal and precast concrete offer a variety of shapes, sizes and colors to enhance any outdoor setting. In some cases, they can even be personalized with artistic cutouts or colors. Additionally, colorful fire glass, ceramic orbs or artistic steel logs can be added as accent toppers to the burner– creating a touch of whimsy. Metal and concrete varieties serve double duty as coffee tables. If the lip area is larger than six inches, a glass or small plate can easily sit on the edge without getting too warm. The addition of a burner lid creates a solid surface when the fire pit is not in use, therefore making it more table-like.

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The benefits of outdoor fire pits go beyond warmth and aesthetics. They can also be used for adding a fun, campfire-like element to outdoor entertaining. Roasting marshmallows, grilling skewers, or even cooking a full meal over an open flame can be a delightful experience.

Outdoor Heaters

When the weather turns chilly, outdoor heaters prove indispensable. They are designed to radiate warmth over a significant area, making them perfect for patios, decks, and other outdoor spaces. There are several types of outdoor heaters, including propane, natural gas, and electric models. Propane heaters are portable and easy to use, while natural gas heaters provide a continuous supply of fuel. Electric heaters are eco-friendly options that can be mounted on walls or ceilings for space-saving solutions, or as freestanding lamp-like structures that also provide light.

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Outdoor heaters come in various styles, including free-standing units and wall or ceiling-mounted designs. Each type offers different benefits, from portable convenience to permanent installation, ensuring there’s an option for every need and preference. While the freestanding variety offers the convenience of portability, they can only heat small spaces that are close to them. Wall or ceiling mounted styles offer a larger radius of heat and come in various sizes to accommodate either large or small spaces. Dimmer switches allow you to adjust the heat intensity. The key is to choose a heater that fits the size of the area and the purpose of the outdoor space.

Outdoor Lanterns

Lighting is crucial in creating a warm and inviting atmosphere outdoors, and lanterns are an excellent choice for adding charm and functionality. Gone are the days of tiki torches to light the night! Outdoor lanterns now come in an array of designs. Contemporary LED lanterns can be hung from trees, placed on tables, or used to line pathways, enhancing both the safety and beauty of the outdoor area. Battery-operated and solar-powered lanterns offer versatility and ease of use, eliminating the need for electrical wiring. They can be strategically placed to highlight features in the garden or to create a cozy nook for evening relaxation. Lanterns with adjustable brightness settings allow for mood lighting, whether for a lively party or a quiet, intimate evening. With so many design styles and sizes to choose from, you are sure to find one that fits your tastes and needs.

Photo: Courtesy of Creative Living

In conclusion, incorporating fire pits, heaters, and lanterns into your outdoor space can significantly enhance its functionality and appeal. These elements not only provide warmth and light but also contribute to a welcoming and cozy environment, perfect for enjoying the outdoors year-round. Whether hosting a lively gathering or enjoying a peaceful evening alone, these amenities ensure your outdoor space is comfortable and inviting, regardless of the season.

Micheline Stone is the owner of Creative Living, the premier source for modern outdoor patio decor. Visit their showroom in the Santa Fe Art District in Denver, view their profile or contact them at 720.222.9509. 

Content and all photography for this article provided by  Creative Living.