As the sun begins to set and the air gets a little cooler, there's nothing like staying outside a bit longer. A patio can provide just as much coziness as the living room, if the lighting and the right details are in place. Here, I share my best tips for creating a warm and inviting patio that you'll want to use all season long.
Outdoor Lighting
Soft and warm lighting is the secret to a cozy patio. Light some hurricane lanterns with real candles, and place them at different heights on the table or along the edge of the patio. You're probably also familiar with string lights featuring small bulbs, which often adorn balconies and patios. They provide a soft and playful light that pairs well with real candles, and they're easy to hang along a railing or in a tree.
Bonfires and Fire
A real bonfire creates a very special atmosphere, with the sound of crackling wood and a warmth you can feel directly. If you have the option, a bonfire or an outdoor fire pit is a fantastic way to extend the evening. However, it's not suitable for all patios, so always check if there's space and possibility before planning an evening around a bonfire. Hurricane lanterns and string lights are an equally cozy alternative if a bonfire isn't an option.
Throws over the furniture
Even on a slightly cool evening, you can enjoy the patio if you have a soft throw within reach. Drape a throw over chairs and sofas, so it's ready to be wrapped around your shoulders as soon as the temperature drops. There's something deeply relaxing about sitting outside, warm under a throw, with the light from candles around you.
Danish pottery adds a rustic touch
If you want to add an extra layer of warmth to your patio, Danish pottery can make a big difference. Place a couple of ceramic vases or candle holders among your newer furniture, and you'll feel how it softens the space and gives it a more rustic and personal feel. This blend of modern furniture and older, handmade pottery is what, for me, defines a truly cozy outdoor atmosphere.
Conclusion
You don't need major changes to make your patio cozy. A few hurricane lanterns, string lights, a soft throw, and a bit of pottery are often enough to create the right atmosphere, whether or not you also have the option for a bonfire.
