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Make your outdoor space fall friendly

With only a few short months to enjoy, it can be a little sad to see summer go.

However, just because the leaves are changing doesn’t mean it is winter yet, and with some clever planning, your outdoor area can easily become a comfortable space to enjoy a stunning fall season.

“If you want to spend more time outside as the weather gets cooler, you have to have lots of throws available,” said Ulya Jensen, interior designer and RONA Home and Garden expert.

“Polyester faux fur or wool blankets are great to have on hand and they won’t get destroyed if they get wet.”

Pairing these cosy blankets with comfortable patio furniture and soft cushions can also keep you sitting outside longer.

And as the days grow shorter, it’s a good idea to think about your outdoor light source.

“Set up some battery-operated lanterns, solar lanterns or LED candles,” Jensen said. “You can now get LED candles that come with a timer so they come on at the same time every day and you can adjust them as the days get shorter.”

Table-top fireplaces add both light and warmth as the weather turns cooler.

For those looking to make a larger investment, an outdoor fireplace is sure to pay off as family and friends gather around this structure well into the winter months.

“Outdoor kitchens and fireplaces are becoming very popular and really turn that outside space into a second living room that can be used for much longer,” Jensen said.

As one of the biggest contributors to extending your outdoor season, choosing your outdoor heating system is a big choice, says Carson Arthur, outdoor design and lifestyle expert.

While a fire pit or outdoor fireplace can seem like an easy solution, you need to be careful that smoke is not bothering your neighbours and that there is at least six feet of space between flames and your chairs, warns Arthur.

“As soon as you bring in those blankets and pillows and you put them around fire, it’s a dangerous situation,” Arthur said.

Another great option is to buy a propane or electric heater.

Arthur suggests mounting your heater to your deck or patio as wind can easily blow heaters over.

“What we are seeing now more in the marketplace are heaters mounted on the wall that actually blow heat down,” he said.

It is also fun to get thematic while entertaining, serving hot drinks instead of cold. Arthur recommends spiced hot chocolate as the perfect fall beverage.

“Instead of trying to make summer longer, embrace fall.

You can really have a lot of fun,” Arthur said.

“You’re taking advantage of the season as it happens.”