Winter is here and the temperature has dropped from those warm summer sunsets. We know these times are probably a bit more difficult for those who are passionate about outdoor experiences because you want to enjoy nature and fresh air even at home, but you don’t want to struggle to be warm. That is why we are here to give you a few tips that will help you turn your alfresco area into an alfresco house during winter.
Preparing Your Alfresco House for Winter
Taking advantage of your outdoor alfresco areas involves creating a space that is both comfortable and functional. A great way to protect it from the elements is to install weather-resistant curtains or clear plastic screens to block out wind and rain while maintaining an outdoor experience with a view of your beautiful garden. Nevertheless, if you want the whole outdoor experience, there are a few suggestions you can take into account to make the most out of it.
Key Elements of a Cosy Alfresco House
Creating a cosy alfresco house goes beyond wind protection and plastic screens, elements such as seating, outdoor roof cover, lighting, an outdoor kitchen and a dining area can make a huge difference in your experience. The most important part of it is that you feel comfortable when using the space and here are some things to keep in mind:
Seating
Having comfortable and warm seating is essential for a cosy outdoor alfresco area in winter. Cushioned chairs and sofas with weather-resistant fabrics will help keep your guests warm during chilly days while protecting your furniture. Arrange them around a central point to create a sense of intimacy, encourage conversations, and keep the temperature warmer.
Outdoor Roof Cover
An outdoor roof cover would make a big difference for winter gatherings. Options as practical as pergolas with adjustable louvres that help you keep control over how much fresh air and sunlight come in are a great solution. Having shelter as soon as the first raindrop falls will make your experience far more enjoyable and a well-designed roof cover not only protects from rain but also retains heat, making your alfresco house usable year-round.
Lighting
How you feel when you see your outdoor alfresco area is as important as the actual temperature. Having good lighting will transform an outdoor space making it look and feel warmer. By using a combination of fairy lights, lanterns, and LED fixtures you will make the ambient glow. Ensure that pathways and steps are well-lit for safety and create a unique experience for you and your loved ones.
Outdoor Kitchen and Dining
A big part of the experience depends on the activities you do in your alfresco house and having an outdoor kitchen and dining area can turn winter gatherings into an unforgettable experience for everyone. Equipping your space with elements like a barbecue, a pizza oven, or a portable stove to cook will bring life to the space while also providing a source of heat for the attendees. You can even consider adding a hot drink station with tea, coffee, and hot chocolate to keep everyone warm and cosy.
Shade
Having protection from the sun is always important regardless of the temperature. Even in winter, having shade in your outdoor alfresco area is crucial to keep control over sun exposure and will help your guests remain comfortable. Retractable awnings, large umbrellas, and louvre roofs are great solutions to be protected from both sun and rain.
Tips for Maintaining Your Outdoor Alfresco Space
Maintaining your alfresco house in great condition during winter is crucial to keeping it inviting and functional. Here are some tips to ensure your space stays in top condition:
- Sweeping away leaves and cleaning outdoor furniture will prevent mildew and dirt build-up. Check and clean gutters to ensure proper drainage and avoid water damage.
- Protecting your garden will help to keep your outdoor spaces alive. Covering sensitive plants and moving potted plants to more sheltered areas as well as regular water will help them to stay healthy throughout the season.
- High-quality protection can make a huge difference on your furniture, it will prevent them from getting damaged by moisture and keep them ready for use. Make sure to choose covers that are breathable to avoid mould and mildew growth.
- Having your gutter free of debris will prevent water overflow and damage to your alfresco house. Regular inspection and cleaning, especially after heavy rain, will help you protect your outdoor spaces from water-related damage.
Heating Solutions for Outdoor Alfresco Spaces
Getting extra heat for your alfresco house is one of the most effective ways to bring life to those spaces in winter. Heating solutions are a game changer for those who want to avoid cold temperatures at all costs, there are plenty of options and the best choice depends on the space that you have and your specific needs.
On one hand, options like outdoor heaters and overhead bar heaters are great solutions for the kind of person who doesn’t want to struggle with less practical solutions, just turn it on and take a seat to enjoy the cosy experience of seeing winter passing by from the comfort of your sofa. The main advantage of these systems is that there’s no need to worry about much and the heat will come to you quickly.
On the other hand, fire pits and fireplaces could be a more suitable solution for those who enjoy the experience of seeing and feeling real fire. Despite being a less practical solution, these options provide a completely different experience with a more natural solution that will make you feel like camping far from home.
Last but not least, barbecues and pizza ovens will be a solution for both coldness and hunger. The possibility of creating a whole experience around cooking outdoors in your alfresco house will make a big difference for many people.
Conclusion
Winter could be cold but this doesn’t mean that you have to stop enjoying your outdoor alfresco area, with few changes on your alfresco house would transform this crucial part of your home into something unique. The right elements and heating solutions will help you to create a cosy and inviting space for seasonal celebrations. By focusing on comfort, warmth, and ambience, your outdoor alfresco area will be the favourite spot for friends and family all winter long.
