Just because the leaves are changing color and the temperature is going down doesn’t mean that you need to move all of your relaxing and entertaining inside just yet. You can extend the use of your outdoor living area through the fall season by making a few simple changes. Here are 3 tips for a fall friendly transition:

Fall Flowers. You don’t need to completely redesign your flower beds in order to enjoy fall perennials. Once you plant some hardy mums in the spring or summer, there’s a good chance that they’ll come back the next year. Another option to enhance your landscaping in a simple way is to add a few potted mums. They can add a burst of color to walkways, patios, and decks.

Lovely Lighting. Since the sun starts to set earlier in the autumn, your outdoor area will need some lighting. The right lighting will create a warm, cozy atmosphere, and make it easier to enjoy a cup of coffee or glass of wine outside in the evenings. Consider adding a string of twinkling white lights, solar powered lanterns, or even candles to add to the ambiance.

Adding Warmth. There are several easy ways to warm up your outdoor living space. Consider a fire pit, which you can use throughout the year. It’s the perfect focal point to place in the middle of the patio, and you can place chairs or benches around it to make a cozy seating area. Invite friends over to toast marshmallows and share a bottle of wine around the fire. Another simple way to warm up is with an outdoor heat lamp, similar to the type that you find at restaurants that offer patio and deck seating. Not only are they a practical heat source, but you can also find them in different finishes to suit your style.

You don’t have to completely remodel your outdoor living space in order to make it beautiful and comfortable for the fall. By adding a practical heat source, decorating with autumn colors, and using the right lighting, you can create a cozy area to enjoy on those chilly days.