Outdoor Family Room

It’s easy to catch an early case of spring fever when the hours of winter daylight dwindle and elements like snow, wind and rain threaten to keep us indoors. Here’s a few ways you can take advantage of the time you do spend

outdoors—and get some mileage out of your outdoor living spaces in the process:

♦ Cozy up to a campfire. When temperatures dip, is there anything more festive than a crackling outdoor fire? Whether it’s a double-sided fireplace, freestanding firepit or charming chiminea, create a romantic focal point where family and friends can retreat and unwind on a cold winter’s day.

♦ Distinguish the space with decorative elements. Outfit your outdoor living room as you would inside: Place decorative vases on the fireplace mantel. Choose comfortable seating with weather-resistant cushions for lounging. Stock plenty of candles for glass hurricanes, and keep warm, fuzzy blankets on hand for extra ambiance.

♦ Yes, you can use your space all year long. Add a spit to the gas grill and use it to roast a Thanksgiving turkey. Heavy-weight curtains employed to block the summer sun can alternatively serve to discourage drafts in winter. Illuminate the space–without making it too glaring–with combination lighting such as lanterns, brick lighting or spread lighting.

Tell us the elements you would install in your ultimate outdoor entertaining spot.

By Samantha Wells