How to Transform Your Outdoor Space Into a Cozy Place to Hang Out

For many people, an outdoor space is only used in the warmer spring and summer months. But unless you live in an extremely cold climate, there's no reason your patio or deck can't be taken advantage of on chillier days too. Creating an inviting and cozy outdoor space is key to turning it into a place you want to be, even if you are wrapped up in a blanket the whole time.

While it seems easier said than done, elevating your yard (or patio or deck) is not as intimidating as it sounds. It often comes down to just a few key pieces that will make your space feel like a warm and snug little nook. Some smaller items, like thick blankets and pretty potted plants, can make a huge difference. If you're going to be outside a lot, it may be worth splurging on some big ticket items like outdoor heaters or even a hot tub. Read on to find out how you can transform your outdoor space in your own cozy oasis.

1) Opt for Comfortable Seating

1) Opt for Comfortable Seating, 2) Add Soft Lighting, 3) Pile On the Throws, 4) Put Down a Rug, 5) Add a Fire Pit, 6) Incorporate a Water Feature, 7) Splurge on a Heat Lamp, 8) Make it Feel Secluded, 9) Throw in Some Color, 10) Offer a Variety of Seating Options, 11) Add Some Greenery, 12) Spring for the Hot Tub

What's the most important part of the equation? Instead of getting inexpensive metal or plastic couches or chairs, go for anything cushioned. Thick outdoor cushions are much more comfy to sit on and encourage lots of snuggling and cozy vibes. Bigger couches are ideal for more people, but you can also look for smaller comfy pieces like swivel chairs.

2) Add Soft Lighting

1) Opt for Comfortable Seating, 2) Add Soft Lighting, 3) Pile On the Throws, 4) Put Down a Rug, 5) Add a Fire Pit, 6) Incorporate a Water Feature, 7) Splurge on a Heat Lamp, 8) Make it Feel Secluded, 9) Throw in Some Color, 10) Offer a Variety of Seating Options, 11) Add Some Greenery, 12) Spring for the Hot Tub

Instead of harsh overhead lights, get a set of softer options that will leave your space a little dim. This will instantly feels more cozy than something bright. String lights are a great choice, because they also make the space look nice—you may even be able to find solar options that don't need to be plugged in. Why not bring some candles outside, too?

3) Pile On the Throws

1) Opt for Comfortable Seating, 2) Add Soft Lighting, 3) Pile On the Throws, 4) Put Down a Rug, 5) Add a Fire Pit, 6) Incorporate a Water Feature, 7) Splurge on a Heat Lamp, 8) Make it Feel Secluded, 9) Throw in Some Color, 10) Offer a Variety of Seating Options, 11) Add Some Greenery, 12) Spring for the Hot Tub

Go out and purchase some comfy outdoor pillows for your chairs and couches—the more, the merrier. Pick a few in different sizes and feel free to mix it up with patterns and colors. You should also buy some throws and blankets that are strictly for outside use. Remember that these can easily get dirty, so it's best to keep blankets stored inside when not in use. But when you plan that chilly outdoor hang, you'll be glad you thought of them.

4) Put Down a Rug

1) Opt for Comfortable Seating, 2) Add Soft Lighting, 3) Pile On the Throws, 4) Put Down a Rug, 5) Add a Fire Pit, 6) Incorporate a Water Feature, 7) Splurge on a Heat Lamp, 8) Make it Feel Secluded, 9) Throw in Some Color, 10) Offer a Variety of Seating Options, 11) Add Some Greenery, 12) Spring for the Hot Tub

A rug is a great way to instantly elevate your space. Not only does it make the ground a little bit warmer, but it also adds some texture, color, and variety to your space. A large rug that covers the space is ideal, but a few smaller rugs for pops of color will be great too. Just be sure to pick options specifically made for the outdoors.

5) Add a Fire Pit

1) Opt for Comfortable Seating, 2) Add Soft Lighting, 3) Pile On the Throws, 4) Put Down a Rug, 5) Add a Fire Pit, 6) Incorporate a Water Feature, 7) Splurge on a Heat Lamp, 8) Make it Feel Secluded, 9) Throw in Some Color, 10) Offer a Variety of Seating Options, 11) Add Some Greenery, 12) Spring for the Hot Tub

A beautiful fire pit will pretty much immediately make your space feel more cozy and inviting. These are great to use on cold fall and winter days, but they're even nice to put on during a little cookout, or on chillier summer nights. Use them for warmth, flickering light, and a place to make s'mores. You can even find options that can double as table space. If you're worried about a wood-burning fire, a gas fire pit is the way to go.

6) Incorporate a Water Feature

1) Opt for Comfortable Seating, 2) Add Soft Lighting, 3) Pile On the Throws, 4) Put Down a Rug, 5) Add a Fire Pit, 6) Incorporate a Water Feature, 7) Splurge on a Heat Lamp, 8) Make it Feel Secluded, 9) Throw in Some Color, 10) Offer a Variety of Seating Options, 11) Add Some Greenery, 12) Spring for the Hot Tub

The trickling sound of water flowing is extremely relaxing and will make you quickly want to curl up with a good book. You don't need to have a fancy in-ground pool or a huge fountain to have a cool water feature into your yard. Go for a smaller fountain, add a waterfall feature to an existing pond, or look for tables with built-in fountain features.

7) Splurge on a Heat Lamp

1) Opt for Comfortable Seating, 2) Add Soft Lighting, 3) Pile On the Throws, 4) Put Down a Rug, 5) Add a Fire Pit, 6) Incorporate a Water Feature, 7) Splurge on a Heat Lamp, 8) Make it Feel Secluded, 9) Throw in Some Color, 10) Offer a Variety of Seating Options, 11) Add Some Greenery, 12) Spring for the Hot Tub

Heat lamps can be pricey—but they can also be worth it—especially if you live in a warm climate and want more comfy outdoor time. They can emit a nice flow of heat (sometimes even too much heat), and they're great for both large and small areas. It may only take one heat lamp to make the space feel much better.

8) Make it Feel Secluded

1) Opt for Comfortable Seating, 2) Add Soft Lighting, 3) Pile On the Throws, 4) Put Down a Rug, 5) Add a Fire Pit, 6) Incorporate a Water Feature, 7) Splurge on a Heat Lamp, 8) Make it Feel Secluded, 9) Throw in Some Color, 10) Offer a Variety of Seating Options, 11) Add Some Greenery, 12) Spring for the Hot Tub

Whether you have a small patio or a large deck, making the space feel secluded can actually give it a more cozy feel. You can do this by adding something like a pergola, outdoor draperies, or a large fence. Tall shrubs and bushes are also a pretty way to enclose the space. Giving it a more private feel that isn't in view of nosy passers-by allows you to relax more.

9) Throw in Some Color

1) Opt for Comfortable Seating, 2) Add Soft Lighting, 3) Pile On the Throws, 4) Put Down a Rug, 5) Add a Fire Pit, 6) Incorporate a Water Feature, 7) Splurge on a Heat Lamp, 8) Make it Feel Secluded, 9) Throw in Some Color, 10) Offer a Variety of Seating Options, 11) Add Some Greenery, 12) Spring for the Hot Tub

It may be tempting to go the all-neutral route, but color can actually make your space feel more fun and inviting. If you're going for a white or tan furniture set, add some pops of color with throw pillows, blankets, a rug, and pieces of decor. You can even paint any walls around the space or add plenty of colorful plants.

10) Offer a Variety of Seating Options

1) Opt for Comfortable Seating, 2) Add Soft Lighting, 3) Pile On the Throws, 4) Put Down a Rug, 5) Add a Fire Pit, 6) Incorporate a Water Feature, 7) Splurge on a Heat Lamp, 8) Make it Feel Secluded, 9) Throw in Some Color, 10) Offer a Variety of Seating Options, 11) Add Some Greenery, 12) Spring for the Hot Tub

The basics of a patio setup are a couch, chair, or table and chairs, but ideally, you should offer a few different seating options. Think a long couch, a bench, a hanging swing, a hammock, and lounge chairs. Anyone will feel cozier when they have a seating option that appeals to them.

11) Add Some Greenery

1) Opt for Comfortable Seating, 2) Add Soft Lighting, 3) Pile On the Throws, 4) Put Down a Rug, 5) Add a Fire Pit, 6) Incorporate a Water Feature, 7) Splurge on a Heat Lamp, 8) Make it Feel Secluded, 9) Throw in Some Color, 10) Offer a Variety of Seating Options, 11) Add Some Greenery, 12) Spring for the Hot Tub

Incorporating plants and flowers into your space is key for creating a lively and inviting area. This is especially true if you're in a city or an area where there aren't many bushes or trees, but it's also just as true in a wooded backyard. If you have walls or fences, some crawling greenery and vines can look beautiful, or you can just put some plants and flowers in flower pots and stagger them throughout the area.

12) Spring for the Hot Tub

1) Opt for Comfortable Seating, 2) Add Soft Lighting, 3) Pile On the Throws, 4) Put Down a Rug, 5) Add a Fire Pit, 6) Incorporate a Water Feature, 7) Splurge on a Heat Lamp, 8) Make it Feel Secluded, 9) Throw in Some Color, 10) Offer a Variety of Seating Options, 11) Add Some Greenery, 12) Spring for the Hot Tub

Few things are as satisfying as sliding into a steaming hot tub on a cold night. Hot tubs can be a huge purchase, but if you have the money and the space, they're a great addition to your yard. If you want one but don't to spend too much, inflatable hot tubs can be a great choice.

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