Tips to keep cool and comfortable in outdoor living spaces

Outdoor living is hotter than ever — in more ways than one — and creating spaces that are not only functional but downright enjoyable is the goal of most homeowners today. No matter how homeowners like to use their outdoor environments, they are probably looking for ways to maximize spaces and make them as pleasant as possible for family and guests.

Here are tips for optimizing a home’s outdoor spaces:

PROVIDE PRACTICAL, COMFORTABLE SEATING

When thinking about what type of seating makes sense for each area, consider who will be using it, for what purpose and for how long. Make a list of how you want to use the space. For instance, do you intend it to be a kid-friendly area for brief breaks between active outdoor games? Will you use it for large family get-togethers or small informal parties? Do you need sturdy seating for people engaged in DIY hobbies or getting together for a simple outdoor meal? Or do you want a relaxing oasis where a few adults can lounge and sip cool drinks (with little umbrellas in them, ideally) for hours?

Seating that can withstand the elements is a must, but it is also a good idea to be realistic regarding out-of-season storage. When it is time to put the furniture away, is there enough storage space? Choose furniture that is designed for the outdoors and is easy to store and care for. What kind of furniture will get the most use?

Try seating before buying it. A simple stone bench, picnic table or wooden chair may look fine, but if you want to make the most of the outdoors, choose a couple of options that offer maximum comfort.

KEEP COOL

Shade is your best friend when trying to keep any outdoor or semi-outdoor space pleasant. If you do not have shade trees to block the sun during peak hours, an awning, canopy or shade cloth will work well. Retractable awnings are very practical, as they can be used only when needed. Even a large table umbrella — strategically placed — can help provide relief from the sun. Take note when the outdoor space is sunniest, and what direction the sunlight primarily comes from, so you will know where to install a shade cloth or awning.

To help cool an outdoor area or semi-outdoor space such as a garage, an evaporative cooler like the Portacool 510 is an option. A compact evaporative cooler differs from an air conditioner because the cooler works with water and the ambient air to naturally cool areas such as a deck, porch or patio. Unlike a fan, this type of cooler does not just blow hot air around — and it is not a mister, so the area around it will not get wet. An evaporative cooler can be used in a variety of outdoor settings to help keep people (and pets) cooler on hot days. The cooler is also mobile and compact with rubberized wheels, so it can be moved into any space where cooling comfort is needed.

GO FOR AMBIANCE WITH ACCENTS

Strategic accents, whether visual, functional or sensory, can be effective in creating a mood. Choose either calming or vibrant colors, depending on the desired effect. Plants and flowers are an easy addition to round out the space. For the ultimate patio or deck oasis in the evening, a string of fairy lights or vintage-style bulbs is a simple lighting option with a big impact, and lanterns or solar path lights can add extra charm and ambiance. Lastly, a good sound system can make an enormous difference. Set up high-quality, easy-to-use speakers so you can listen to music or the big game.

On the flip side, if your outdoor area is all about creating DIY projects or working on hobbies, set up a sturdy worktable. Make sure you have all the supplies you need nearby in waterproof containers, and install appropriate lighting in case you need to keep working after sunset.

When preparing an outdoor space, do not be afraid to make it your own. Outdoor spaces offer flexibility when it comes to design and purpose, but do not forget to make them comfortable.