We love it when you love to be outside
Of course, we might be a little biased. Our favorite moments are working on the projects that help our clients achieve the yard and outdoor spaces of their dreams, so being outside — and showing folks just what is possible for their outdoor spaces — fills us with delight.
There’s a common misconception that here in the Pacific Northwest we have to spend the entirety of our winter months indoors. It’s overcast and gray, it’s rainy and cold, and the last thing you really want to do is climb out from underneath that blanket and make your way outdoors. Besides, it’s time to make another pot of coffee and there’s plenty of Netflix to binge.
But, what if we told you that you could bring the best of the inside to the outside, and that you could enjoy it just as comfortably? What if we told you that you have the opportunity to create a space that you’ll love, your family won’t be able to get enough of, and will make you the envy of your neighbors while making your friends secretly wish that you’re the only family who hosts get-togethers from now on? It’s a real possibility for you!
Your outdoor space can be whatever you want it to be!
Now, the term patio almost seems reductive. This is more akin to another living room or family that you’re creating outside the home. What do you love to do with your family? What excites everyone and will encourage you to get together for more quality time?
Having a covered outdoor patio means you’re protected from the rain, but what about that pesky wind? Luckily, there are all sorts of ways in which you can combat the elements while still giving yourself the outdoor experience you’re looking for.
Some solutions are natural, like strategically planting shrubs in a manner that, as they mature, will give you the wind-resistance and privacy you’re looking for.
Other options can include glass walls, retractable wind screens, artificial hedge walls, or even certain pieces of furniture that can function as seating and protection from wind. And you don’t need to settle on just one solution, either. Depending on the design you want, our design team can create numerous different recommendations on how you can stylishly, practically, and reliably enjoy your outdoor space in the dead of winter.
Make your outdoor space warm, toasty, and dramatic
Now, you might be thinking, “Sure, we’re protected from the rain and the wind, but it’s still gonna be cold, right?” But here’s the exciting thing: You have so many options for keeping your outdoor space warm. Here are some of our favorites:
The fire pit: We love a fire pit because it can be constructed in a variety of shapes and sizes, but what it really does is that it creates a natural space for everyone to gather around. Fire Pits very easily become communal spaces. People go to them for warmth, and they stay for the conversation and for the dazzling sight of the fire.
The fireplace: A more dramatic version of the fire pit, the fireplace is the perfect way to give your outdoor space a visual centerpiece while keeping you and your guests warm. They’re beautiful, functional, and give your space a well-earned sense of grandeur.
Outdoor heaters: If you’re strictly thinking about function vs. form, there’s an incredible array of outdoor heaters you can choose from for your outdoor space. Consider tabletop heaters, free-standing heaters (like the ones you might see at restaurants), or even infrared heaters that you can connect to your home’s electrical.
We really like the last option, because they’re not only quite energy efficient, but they also save you a great deal of space by typically being hung overhead vs. taking up floor or table space.
Choose furniture that is cozy, weather-resistant, and has storage
Living in the Pacific Northwest as we do, choosing materials that are weather resistant are important when selecting outdoor furniture.
We love furniture that encourages people to sit in it, with soft, comfortable upholstery that can be easily cleaned and can combat the hot summer sun and the cold rains of winters.
Cover your chairs and couches with outdoor pillows for extra coziness, and look for pieces of furniture that have built-in storage, so you can fill them with blankets and other items that will keep your family and friends warm while spending time outside.
We can help you find pieces that match the goals and aesthetic of your space.
What do you imagine your outdoor space being? We can help you make it real!
For 25 years, Greenhaven Landscapes has helped people in the greater Portland and Vancouver areas create incredible outdoor spaces, and we want to help you do the same. Call us today for your consultation!