The cold should not keep you from enjoying your outside areas. A pergola or patio is a beautiful addition to your garden that should be used throughout the year. You may need to change things up over the colder months and we are going to share just how to do that.  We share a few ideas on ho wt stay cosy outdoors. 

Adding Layers  

Outdoor curtains, blinds and drapes add warmth and looks charming outside. There is a large variety of outdoor, weather-friendly materials to choose from for the perfect covering. Drapes have a St Tropez feel all year and can be tied up or tucked away in summer when you need that extra breeze to cool down. Patios are generally covered, but if you are going the pergola route, narrow-slat pergola roofs are best for colder weather – and choose to design yours with this in mind if you will be using yours year-round.  

Warm Additions  

Rugs and carpets look stylish in patios and pergolas. Numerous ones that overlap will add textured layers, perfect for winter décor trends. Carpets will also add a generous amount of insulation. Enjoy your outside carpeted area when it gets the most sun in the day. This area will be warm and even perfect for some outside office time.  

A small fire pit placed in a safe area close to your patio or pergola (height restricting) is an inviting way to celebrate the colder days and evenings in style. A drinks trolley is ideal for pouring a hearty glass of red wine, port or sherry to warm you up really quick.   

Covering Up  

You can easily cover your pergola roof to prevent any heat from escaping, but it is also a relatively easy job to DIY to keep the rain out later in the year. A shade sail is also a modern alternative and works well for a four post-type pergola with no narrow slates.  

Vine plants can also add some protection from the cold. A thick, overgrown pergola roof is a natural way to keep the heat in, but potted and hanging plants placed strategically can also do wonders for comfort. Creating a canopy from linen is also an easy DIY solution to keep it cosy. Plastic pergola roof coverings provide excellent protection from the wind and rain, and clear varieties keep the pergola sunny but protected.   

More outdoor area ideas here.