How to Design an All-Year Outdoor Living Space for Your Custom Home in Wisconsin’s Climate
Your Outdoor Space—Enjoy It Year-Round, Even in Wisconsin!
There’s no place quite like Wisconsin. The winters can be brutal, and the summers, though gorgeous, can be surprisingly short. But here’s the good news: with a well-designed outdoor living space, you don’t have to let Wisconsin’s unpredictable climate stop you from enjoying the great outdoors every season. Whether you’re looking to sip a hot drink by the fire during a crisp winter evening or host a barbecue with friends on a warm summer afternoon, a thoughtfully designed all-year outdoor living area can make that dream a reality.
For those of you in Kenosha, working with a custom home designer is the key to getting an outdoor space that fits your lifestyle, matches your home’s style, and holds up through all four seasons. Let’s dive into some exciting ideas to help you make the most out of your outdoor living area in 2024, no matter the weather.
Think Big (and Cozy): Designing for Comfort Through All Seasons
When it comes to designing an all-year outdoor space, comfort is king. You want an outdoor area that’s inviting in the summer, warm in the winter, and functional all year long. That’s where the expertise of a custom home designer really shines. The goal is to create a space that you love being in, whether you’re grilling burgers or toasting marshmallows.
1. It’s All About the Heat—Staying Warm in Wisconsin Winters
No one wants to sit outside shivering in the dead of winter, but with a few well-placed heat sources, your outdoor space can become the coziest spot in your home. Here are some ideas:
- Fire Pits and Fire Tables: Fire pits are classic for a reason. Not only do they add warmth, but they also become the focal point for your outdoor gatherings. In 2024, we’re seeing more homeowners in Kenosha opt for propane fire tables—they’re easy to use, modern, and stylish.
- Overhead Heaters: Mounted heaters, especially radiant ones, are perfect if you want something a bit more subtle. Your custom home designer can install these to blend seamlessly into a pergola or covered patio.
The idea is to keep things simple—less fuss, more enjoyment. You want to be able to step outside, turn on a heater or spark up a fire, and be ready to enjoy your evening.
2. Shelter from the Storm: All-Season Structures
Living in Kenosha means dealing with all sorts of weather, from heavy snowfalls to blazing sun. If you want to make your outdoor living space usable all year round, a sturdy structure is a must-have.
- Pergolas with Retractable Canopies: Pergolas are perfect for defining your space. In 2024, retractable canopies are all the rage. They let you control how much sun or shade you’re getting, making your outdoor area adaptable to any kind of weather.
- Three-Season Rooms: Want a space that feels like the outdoors but protects you from the elements? A three-season room could be your answer. With retractable screens and glass panels, you can open it up during summer or close it off when the temperatures start to dip. Plus, it keeps those pesky Wisconsin bugs out during mosquito season.
3. The Perfect Outdoor Furniture for Every Season
Your outdoor furniture needs to be both functional and comfortable—after all, it’s the place where you’ll spend most of your time. The big trend for 2024? Modular furniture. It’s versatile, which means you can rearrange it to suit any gathering, from a small family hangout to a larger summer party.
Opt for pieces that are weather-resistant, but don’t forget about comfort. Add throw blankets and outdoor cushions that are easy to bring in when the weather turns, but sturdy enough to leave out most of the time.
Pro tip: Consider adding a heated bench or built-in seating near your fire feature. This way, even if the temperatures dip, your guests stay cozy.
Lighting: Set the Mood, Whatever the Weather
Lighting is everything when it comes to creating a warm, welcoming outdoor space. In Kenosha, the winter months get dark early, so having good lighting is crucial if you want to enjoy your backyard beyond the summer.
- String Lights: You can’t go wrong with classic string lights. They’re budget-friendly, easy to install, and add a festive touch year-round.
- Pathway Lights: Solar-powered pathway lights are great for the summer, but consider low-voltage LED lights for year-round reliability.
- Smart Outdoor Lights: For 2024, smart outdoor lighting systems are becoming more popular. You can control the color and brightness through an app, so whether you want a cozy winter vibe or a bright summer party atmosphere, you can set it all with just a tap.
4. Outdoor Cooking All Year Long
Who says grilling is just for summer? With the right setup, you can keep the barbecue going all year. Consider installing an outdoor kitchen that’s equipped for Wisconsin’s winter months—think covered cooking areas and windbreaks. Your custom home designer can help create a cooking space that’s both functional and inviting, with durable surfaces that can withstand the elements.
- Covered Grilling Area: A covered grill means you can cook up a storm, even if it’s snowing. A pergola or awning works great for this.
- Pizza Oven: If you’re looking to step up your game, why not install a pizza oven? It’s perfect for warming up on a cold night and gives you a fun way to make dinner with family and friends.
Bring in the Green: Landscaping for All Seasons
An all-year outdoor space isn’t complete without the right landscaping. In 2024, the trend is all about native plants that thrive in Wisconsin’s climate and require less maintenance. By choosing native grasses, evergreens, and winter-hardy shrubs, you’ll have a beautiful garden that looks great, even in the colder months.
- Evergreens for Year-Round Color: Evergreens are perfect for adding color when most other plants have gone dormant. Consider using them as privacy screens or windbreaks around your patio.
- Potted Plants: Use potted plants with wheels—this way, you can move them around as needed, bringing them closer to the warmth in the winter or spreading them out during summer.
The Benefits of an All-Year Outdoor Space
You might be wondering—is it really worth investing in a space you can use year-round? Absolutely, and here’s why:
- More Living Space: An all-year outdoor area effectively adds another “room” to your home. Whether you’re entertaining guests or just need a quiet place to unwind, this space will get plenty of use.
- Higher Home Value: If you ever decide to sell your home, having a well-designed outdoor space is a huge plus for buyers in Kenosha. It’s an investment that pays off.
- Better Mental Health: Spending time outdoors is proven to reduce stress and boost mood. Imagine being able to enjoy that benefit even during the cold Wisconsin winters, thanks to a thoughtfully designed space.
Maintenance Tips for All-Year Enjoyment
- Cover Your Furniture: Protecting your furniture with covers during the harshest winter months will extend its lifespan and keep it looking fresh.
- Regular Heating Checks: Make sure your fire pits and heaters are in good condition before winter hits, so there are no surprises when you need them most.
- Clean the Space Regularly: Keep pathways clear of snow and debris to make sure your outdoor space stays inviting and safe.
Make Your Outdoor Space Work for You
Designing an all-year outdoor living space in Wisconsin doesn’t have to be complicated. With a little help from a custom home designer, you can create a backyard oasis that keeps you comfortable no matter what Mother Nature throws your way. Whether it’s a cozy winter gathering by the fire or a sunny summer barbecue, the key is creating a space that fits your lifestyle—and makes you want to be outside.
