How to create a winter outdoor living space

So, why don't we use our gardens in winter? Let's see - too cold, too dark, takes too much effort, and it starts to rain when you get out there? But it doesn’t have to be like that. The secret is to build winter-readiness into your outdoor design.

To begin with basic structure, choice of paving has a clear impact on how welcoming a space is in winter. No one wants to venture out onto a patio that’s green with algae, stays damp for long periods and where the mortar is loosening after plenty of freeze-thaw action. Not everyone can have a sunny, south-facing terrace that dries out quickly and warms up a treat, though. Where your outdoor space is overhung with vegetation, in something of a frost pocket or tending to dampness, choosing a low-maintenance paving with very low porosity will have an impact on your long-term enjoyment. Very hard paving such as granite and porcelain are particularly resilient. Dense stone resists dirt and stains and makes it harder for algae to take hold. Composite decking is a winter-friendly option too, as it doesn't require the maintenance of real wood. Maintaining your patio in a basic twice-yearly programme also ensures that algae doesn’t build up. Depending on your choice, you should consider whether to seal your paving. More porous stone, especially sawn paving, should always be sealed to prolong its colour, good looks, and resistance to frost

Crumbling, broken sand and cement make a space unwelcoming, especially as it quickly greens up with small seedlings and algae and tends to hold on to the damp. So, your choice of mortar is important for creating a space you feel happy to use, even on a grey day. We’ve recommended GftK for years now, and have had no reason to change our mind. An epoxy-resin coated sand, mixed with a hardener, it sets to a permeable, high-tensile mortar that prevents weeds from growing, resists the destructive burrowing activities of insects, and doesn’t fall prey to freeze-thaw action. It’ll add a smart edge to your outdoor space, even through a succession of the gloomiest winters.

Warmth is an obvious requirement for using a garden in winter. But no one wants to clutter up their space with stand-alone equipment such as patio heaters, nor move heavy equipment around unnecessarily. An outdoor fireplace offers instant heat and cosiness, and bespoke masonry is the ideal way to ensure an inset gas or wood-burning appliance looks exactly as you want it to, in exactly the spot you want it. Or how about a bespoke firepit or bowl to fit exactly into your design? Just challenge us to create exactly the shape and size you need.

Stepping down into the protective embrace of sunken seating made cosy with deep cushions will provide shelter from breezes. There's plenty to think about when designing a sunken seating area, but one advantage is that it creates a focal point in the garden, enticing you out. And it provides a gathering place, without clutter of garden furniture and the care that requires, or the storage it might need in inclement weather. Even if it's not sunken, solidly built seating offers protection from the weather and will store heat in sunny days for a warmer spot in the evening.

A covered area also increases the sense of cosiness. Choosing a pergola with retractable sides will deflect a breeze, while a louvred roof allows you to keep the area dry. Place sunken seating under a roof creates a very versatile addition to your outdoor space.

Lighting is also easily accommodated, but again it's not necessary to clutter your precious space with solar lights or trailing wires. Our Bespoke masonry department in on hand to drill stonework, cladding, steps and paving to receive discreet lighting units for a design that highlights particular features, or provides simple illumination for sitting by that fire. All you need now is a cosy blanket to snuggle into and a warm glass of mulled wine to curl your fingers round, and you’ve the perfect ingredients for enjoying your winter-ready garden. Post updated: April 2023