If you’re fortunate enough to have a porch, deck or patio attached to your house, then you know it becomes an extension of your home in the warmer months; and sometimes in the colder months. As we all weathered the pandemic over the last several years, we were encouraged to meet outside if/when necessary which spawned numerous porch and patio parties, and deck dances! 

We all know that the pandemic has been challenging to say the least, and life-threatening to say the worst. But one of the things that I look at as a positive to our forced habits during this time period is the opportunity to spend more time outside. More restaurants offer outdoor dining, more events are being held outside and many of us are doing more entertaining outside. So why not make these spaces beautiful, comfortable outdoor “rooms”. 

Some ideas for your porch, deck or patio:

Plants & Flowers - Using plants and flowers to liven up your outdoor space is one of the simplest things you can do. Look for hearty potted plants, seasonal flowers and unique planters to create a natural environment. They make planters in all sizes and shapes and planters that hang over your railings. You can even grow veggies, like tomatoes, in planters on your porch, deck or patio. 

Outdoor Patio Heater - I can’t imagine the sales on portable fire pits and propane heaters during the pandemic. Just about everyone I know was investing in one of these. Whether you just want to take the chill off when the sun goes down on a summer evening, or you sit outside with your cup of tea into the fall, this is a great way to stay cozy outside. They also help keep the pesky mosquitos at bay. They come in numerous shapes and sizes and fit just about any outdoor space. (pictured below from wayfair.com)

Outdoor Furniture - Again, you can typically find options in all financial categories, from brightly colored resin Adirondack chairs, to plush, weather-proof sofas. DIY projects such as palette benches and re-purposing old furniture make for great options also. 

A little touch here and there can make for a welcoming porch or a cozy deck. So enjoy the great outdoors while still sticking close to all the comforts of home!