When it’s cold, it’s easy to spend your days rugged up on the sofa, but there’s no need to live life indoors this winter. By adding a few smart design features, you can create a warm and cosy outdoor living space that can be used even when the temperature plummets. Nu Style Shutters are Perth’s leading suppliers of roller shutters, security doors and outdoor Ziptrak blinds to keep your home safe and comfortable. Whether you’re entertaining, relaxing or spending time with family and friends, make the most of the great outdoors with the below tips on how to create an inviting winter-friendly outdoor space.
Put a Roof On It
Having a roof on your alfresco area immediately creates the feeling of an indoor room outdoors.
Often, your alfresco roof would be an extension of your home’s roof, however there are many modern alternatives that can help you manage the weather, light and ventilation. Roofing options such as a louvre roof, sensor-driven opening roof or glass opening roof provide flexibility and can be designed to feel like part of your home.
Enclose the Space
Having a completely open alfresco area can significantly limit your use. Enclosing your outdoor living space is a practical option that gives you the flexibility to have protection from the winter cold, wind and rain yet allow you to enjoy the sun when the warmer weather arrives. There is a wide range of choices when it comes to enclosing your alfresco, some options include:
- Glass or screen walls
- Sliding, stacker or bi-fold doors
- Roller or plantation shutters
Outdoor Ziptrak blinds are one of the best solutions. Ziptrak blinds are mounted on the posts of your patio, allowing you to fully enclose it. This creates a seamless flow between your interior and outdoor living space and whilst being protected from the elements.
Get Lit
In Perth we have long and hot summers, so a lot of focus goes on how to stay cool in your alfresco space, but proper heating is just as important. When it comes to heating options, it is important to understand the Council regulations, as some restrictions may apply. There are a few different types outdoor heating, these include:
Radiant heating – one of the best options for heating outdoor spaces where there is considerable air movement. Radiant heaters produce gentle, even and comfortable warmth and allow for the zoning of heat, so as to not waste heat on unused or lesser-used outdoor areas.
Fireplaces and fire pits – two flame-filled heating options for outdoor rooms. A fireplace is a built-in permanent structure or installation and, has a more romantic and cosy ambience. A fire pit is typically freestanding, and feels more outdoorsy and casual.
Freestanding gas heaters – a portable option. These come in a variety of designs and styles, including floor and table-top heaters and can be packed away easily when summer rolls around.
Rug Up with Furnishings
Cosy seating and soft furnishings like blankets, throws and cushions aren’t just for the indoors. Many homewares brands produce outdoor decor and furniture ranges in durable fabrics designed to withstand the elements. Choose soft cushions and throws in natural and earthy tones and relax under the cosiness when the air turns cool.
Don’t say goodbye to outdoor entertaining during the colder months, with just a few adjustments your alfresco space can get as much use as the rest of the house, even in the midst of winter. If you want to create an outdoor space you can use in winter, installing Ziptrak blinds from Nu Style Shutters will give you an outdoor living zone you can embrace all year round. For more information on the benefits of Ziptrak blinds or for an obligation free quote, get in touch with us today on 1300 798 776 or contact us online now.
