Backyard to balcony: How to enjoy your outdoor space this fall – National

If you have the space, one of the first things you can do to extend your outdoor season into fall is to set up a light shelter. This keeps you covered and helps contain the heat. We like this outdoor canopy gazebo for its durable hard top that makes dining al fresco a possibility well into fall. It’s made with a powder-coated aluminum frame, making it resistant to weather damage, while the polyester curtains and black mosquito netting offer both insulation against cooling temperatures or ventilation, when the weather is warm (and full of bugs). We also like that the curtains are removable, making this gazebo versatile and ready to meet the shifting weather. The ceiling features a hook so you can attach lights, a fan or anything else that strikes your fancy.

For a more affordable, low-fuss option, try the Solo Stove Ranger 2.0, Smokeless Fire Pit. It features a removable ash pan and a major plus: it’s surprisingly lightweight and portable, so you can move it around as you need to – it’s all you truly need to stay warm and cozy this fall.

Another space-saving option is a standup propane patio heater – the sort you find at restaurants. Warm some cider or mull some wine, grab a blanket and cozy up with your favourite read. You’ve got 10 hours of heat when the tank is full. You can adjust the heat intensity with a knob and wheel it around, as necessary. And if propane is not an option for your balcony, there are still plenty of space-saving, heating options like this outdoor electric heater from Amazon that we really like.

The days continue to get shorter as we inch closer to the winter solstice. But just because it gets dark outside sooner doesn’t mean that’s necessarily a bad thing. Whether on your balcony or backyard, there are loads of ways to make this work to your advantage. Cue: the Philips Hue Play Smart Wall Washer. Capable of projecting colour from further distances than its competitors, the Wall Washer employs “ColorCast technology” with precisely-arranged LED lights, serving up intensity or dim backdrop lighting, building ambiance. Bonus: just bring it indoors when you’re ready to turn in for the night.

At $80, the Govee is a more affordable option, with many of the features. Just download the app and choose from more than 64 pre-set scenes and even music-syncing modes – perfect for a relaxing evenings and hosting friends and family.

Another great lighting solution, perfect for balconies and small patios, is this garland light option from Simons (we do additionally love the glass bottle lanterns as well). These warm LED lights will add a cozy touch to those cool fall evenings, perfect for lounging with a warm bevvy of your choice.

Warm throws are a must when the temperatures drop and we are in love with the designs Simons offers. Our pick is the Pavilion Colour Blocks Quilted Blanket, made by Hübsch, a Danish brand at Simons Maison. It adds a touch of artistic elegence, while the OEKO-TEX® cotton fabric keeps you comfortable and warm as you relax on the patio.

And if you have the budget, consider the handmade Marni quilt throw option from Simons as well.

Regardless of what blankets or cushions you have, you’ll want a convenient and covered drop spot to store them at the end of the day. For that, we like the Veradek 30-gallon storage solution that – bonus – serves as a side table to hold that glass of wine or fall-inspired cocktail. Best part? Veradek is designed and manufactured in Canada specifically for Canadian climates.

Will the lush greenery and summer foliage starting to fade, you may find your outdoor space more exposed. That calls for an added layer of privacy and for that we really like Veradek’s Outdoor Privacy Screen, which not only adds a visual barrier, but does so in aesthetically-pleasing ways (there are several patterns and varying privacy levels to choose from). As with Veradek’s other outdoor products, it’s made all-weather resistant and it’s designed and manufactured in Canada specifically for Canadian climates.

To enjoy your time outside, you need the right furniture, made to withstand Canadian weather. The Aby x Skane Lounge Bundle and lounge chair are made from faux wicker and powder-coated aluminum. This also makes the furniture easy to move around, should you need to stow it away down the line. The Aby x Skane Lounge Bundle is not only comfortable and durable, great to look at too. And because Article is a Vancouver-based, online furniture retailer, you know you’re supporting a Canadian brand too.

And if your idea of recharging is gathering your favourite people around a dinner table, there is no need to stop dining al fresco, just because the hottest months are in the rearview. Extend your outdoor dining season with Article’s beautiful take on the outdoor dining table made of teak wood. It comfortably seats 10, so you’ll have plenty of space for all your VIPs.

Why fight the elements when you can harness them for memorable experiences? You don’t even need to leave home to treat yourself to some R&R in your at-home hot tub. We like Costway’s 72” inflatable option for its price point and flexibility (you don’t have to leave it up year round if you don’t want to). It has 120 air jets and an electric heater pump so you can enjoy a thermal plunge for a spa getaway in your very own backyard and even on cold days.