The weather is getting cooler, but there’s no need to abandon your outdoor entertaining spaces just yet. Keep the al fresco feel going all year long, by cosying up your outdoor area this autumn. The Temple and Webster style team have put together their top tips and advice to get that snug inside feel, in your outside space.

Brighten up

Although summer is drawing to a close, you can still bring the warmth back into your outdoor spaces. Fire pits are a classic addition to any outdoor entertaining area. Whether you’re using them to toast marshmallows or simply to keep the autumn chill at bay, fire pits instantly bring a cosy and comfortable vibe. They look their best as your outdoor centrepiece, surrounded by comfortable couches and seating – Perfect for gathering friends and family on those cold autumn nights!

If a fire pit isn’t an option, lighting is another great way to cosy up your outdoor space. Festoon lights are a great choice, as they draw the eye around the space, and cast a warm glow, making it feel more snug. Choose a light that is weatherproof so hanging your lights is a one-time job.

Rug up

Outdoor rugs are a stylish and sophisticated way to bring the inside, out. On cold autumn nights, it’s much more luxurious to step onto a rug than on bare concrete or a deck. Rugs can help add texture and colour to the space, often setting the theme for the rest of your colour and style choices.

If your space is quite large, rugs can also help zone the space, making a substantial entertaining area feel more cosy and inviting.

Get cosy

Ensuring you and your guests are comfortable no matter the weather is key to enjoying any outdoor entertaining area. Soft furnishings are a simple way to add colour and cosiness to any space, whilst still serving the practical purpose of keeping everyone warm as the temperature drops.

When choosing soft furnishings such as throws and pillows, look for a variety of textures to create interest and draw the eye. Faux fur, velvet and patterned materials, will help create a cosy vibe that’s not only on trend, but affordable as well. If you’re using pieces that aren’t weather-proof, don’t forget to cover them or store them inside!

Feature furniture

Rugs aren’t the only way to zone and define your outdoor entertaining areas, the right outdoor furniture – be it a dining set, outdoor lounge or hanging chair – can do the same.

Choosing pieces that are comfortable and inviting is key for the cooler months, but ensuring they’re versatile is also important so they’ll last you through the seasons. Look for pieces that will make you want to spend time in your alfresco areas – furniture with comfortable cushions, benches that convert into daybeds for lazing in the winter sun or stylish armchairs to put around the fire pit are all great options.

If feasting is your thing, try looking for an outdoor dining setting big enough to host family and friends, in hard wearing materials to withstand winter weather. Having somewhere comfortable to entertain your nearest and dearest is sometimes all the motivation you need to embrace your outdoor spaces, year round.

Source: https://www.insideout.com.au/expert-advice/interior-stylist/4-ways-to-cosy-up-your-outdoor-entertaining-space/news-story/845425ab2a20048af20a8274f4044bc1