Publications
Partners
There is no need to neglect your patio or balcony during winter; it can still be used on sunny days, especially in the northern parts of the country that only get summer rain. But if your outdoor room doesn't get sun it can get even more chilly, especially if it doesn't have a roof.
So here are some ideas to enhance its cosiness:
Heat up
The easiest way to ensure your outdoor kuiers are pleasant is to light a fire. If you have space, build a fire pit, or buy a portable one that you can pack away in summer.
Restaurant style gas heaters work well for bigger areas.
If you only have a balcony or a very small courtyard, try the very trendy bio-ethanol table top fireplaces - visit www.1green.co.za.
Bio-ethanol is a no mess option - it doesn't produce ash or soot. It also comes from a renewable source.
Sit up
In winter sitting on a cold cement bench, upright plastic or steel chair won’t be pleasant, so when choosing outdoor furniture, keep all seasons in mind. Add comfortable upholstered cushions and scatters in warm inviting colours.
Large scatters or poufs on the floor are a great alternative for affordable winter friendly seating. If you don’t have a covered patio where you can leave your couch, carry your indoor sofa outside when you have friends over.
Cover up
The good old trusted blanket or throw can be a décor accessory and keep you and your guests warm. It is an easy way to add colour and style your outdoor room. Also cover the floor to prevent the cold from coming through. Either take an indoor rug outside or buy a plastic woven outdoor rug.
Light up
Warm light gives the illusion of heat, so be generous with your candles and hurricane lanterns. To enjoy your garden and outdoor area at all year round after dark, invest in well-planned landscape lighting. Lighting should be practical and emphasise pretty areas in the garden. For a more festive atmosphere, hang faerie lights or quirky party lights.
Plant up
Save space by planting up. There are many clever vertical planters available lately that gives the sense of a garden, even if you only have a balcony. Narrow pots along the wall will also save space. Choose plants that are evergreen and have some height, to ensure that your potted garden looks as inviting in winter as in summer.
