This text is part of the special book Plaisirs
Even if the days are getting shorter and the temperature is getting cooler, that’s no reason to deprive yourself of beautiful evenings outside, with family or friends. The proof with 10 ways to continue enjoying our terrace all fall and until the first snowfalls.
1. A patio heater
Since the start of the pandemic, patio heaters have been flying like hot cakes. Does this option appeal to you? Two recommendations for use: while infrared electric models must be connected by a certified electrician, appliances that are powered by propane gas must not be used on a covered terrace or under a garden shed, for example.
2. A brazier
Simple and effective, the classic brazier allows us to warm up near a wood fire… and even to roast marshmallows like when camping if we feel like it! Some compact bioethanol models, which do not generate smoke, can be used as a centerpiece.
3. Warm textiles
Chilly despite everything? We also take out our woolen blankets! And in order to maximize our comfort even in cool weather, we can place plaids, sheepskins or cushions made of synthetic fur on our garden chairs or on our outdoor sofa.
4. Clever storage
In order to prolong the useful life of our blankets and cushions, even those designed specifically for the outdoors, we must protect them from the elements. To keep them dry, you can store them in an airtight plastic box. They come in different sizes at garden centers. As a bonus, you get an extra seat on holidays!
5. Fairy lights
The long summer evenings are well and truly behind us. Never mind: we hang pretty light garlands from our pergola or our fence to illuminate our autumn 5 to 7. It is preferable to opt for a model that runs on solar energy, which you can install yourself even if you do not have an external outlet nearby.
6. Windproof curtains
We kill two birds with one stone by hanging curtains on our pergola or our garden pavilion: in addition to embellishing the space, they create a privacy screen while protecting us from the wind. To maximize the windproof effect, swap light curtains for thicker fabrics.
7. A fall makeover
Just because the sun sets early doesn’t mean you can’t take advantage of it! Depending on the orientation of our courtyard, we adapt the layout of our furniture accordingly in order to make the most of the sunshine. To us the afternoons of reading under the oblique autumn rays!
8. A four-season barbecue
Not all barbecues are created equal. Some appliances are designed to optimize heat retention even when the mercury drops outside. Result: it can be used 365 days a year. Perfect for fall grilling!
9. Cold-loving plants
Even if the good days of our tomato plants are over, we can still continue to cultivate our vegetable garden until late in the fall. The advantages are numerous: fewer parasites, less watering for tastier vegetables, whether we think of arugula, kale, parsley or spinach. If we are motivated, we can even protect our carrots with a tarpaulin and harvest them until Christmas!
10. A spa for bathing all year round
A swimming pool is good, but a spa? In addition to being able to bask in it 12 months a year, the spa can be installed in tight spaces, and even directly on the terrace if the structure is strong enough. An option to consider if you have a small backyard, or even a space on the roof! However, we make sure to respect the urban planning standards of our municipality — you need a permit to install it, not to mention the obligation to entrust the electrical connection to a certified electrician — as well as the regulations on the safety of residential pools, recently updated.