Transform Your Outdoor Space for the Cool Months Ahead

As the days grow shorter and the nights get cooler, you may be tempted to move your socialising from your outdoor space back indoors. But just because the temperatures are dropping a little doesn’t mean you have to abandon your patio parties or al fresco dining. Here are a few quick and easy tips to help you transform your outdoor space for the cool months ahead.

• Throw some light on the subject

As the evenings get darker earlier, it can be tempting to head indoors to your sitting room's cosy warmth and soft lights. But you'd be missing out on some of the best night skies of the year if you do that! While the heavens put on a dazzling light show, create your own galaxy at ground level by adding fairy lights that twinkle in the garden. Floodlights can be harsh, so soften the mood with free-standing upright lighting that can be positioned wherever you want. For al fresco dining, break out the candles for a wonderfully atmospheric mood.

• Heat up the place

If the evening turns a little chilly, patio heaters can make a massive difference to the comfort and mood of your outdoor space. If you prefer a more natural ambience, a small fire pit immediately becomes the centre of attention. You can sit and watch those beautiful patterns dance and flicker all evening long.

• Toasty throws and rugs

If you start feeling a little chilly, a snuggly faux fur throw is the perfect answer. You can curl up on the sofa with a throw over your knees and enjoy the evening garden in all its beauty. Throws are easy to care for and can be used indoors as well as outside. 

Outdoor rugs keep feet warm and add a touch of homely comfort. They soften exterior décor and give outdoor spaces a friendly, relaxed look. 

• Go for autumn colours

During the colder months, your table décor, such as table runners, placemats, and even your serving bowls, can take on a more autumnal feel. Go for organic wooden bowls that use melamine to give you that rustic feel, partnered with rattan caddies and simple yet cheerfully decorated dinnerware ideal for serving up hearty stews and warming soups.

Your outdoor cushions can be transformed for the season, too, with earthy browns balanced with rich creams. Our top tip: Take inspiration from the colours you see in your garden at this time of year and try to emulate them in your autumn outdoor décor. 

• Keep things under wraps

To make sure your outdoor furniture stays looking its best and to protect it from any inclement weather, invest in some outdoor covers for your chaise longue, sofa or chairs. Not only will they keep the rain at bay, but they can be quickly and easily slipped over your furniture at the first sign of a change in the weather. 

• Enjoy yourself!

The autumn season is one of the most inspiring and wonderful times of the year. The heat of the summer may have faded, but that’s a perfect excuse to pop on your favourite cosy jumper and enjoy the outdoors in a different, more relaxed way. Check out the Outdoors section at Crate and Barrel for some more inspiration this season, and make the most of your outdoor space all year round.