As summer fades and the crisp air of autumn settles over Canterbury, it’s tempting to retreat indoors. But why let the changing seasons stop you from enjoying your outdoor spaces? With a little creativity and the right upgrades, you can transform your backyard into a cozy, functional area perfect for entertaining during the transition from summer into autumn. The Canterbury Home Show is the ultimate place to find inspiration, with over 140 exhibitors showcasing innovative products and services to help you make the most of your outdoor living areas. Here’s how you can extend your outdoor entertaining season with ideas and solutions from the exhibitors at this year’s Canterbury Home Show.
Create a Weatherproof Outdoor Space
The first step to enjoying your outdoor area year-round is to protect it from the elements. Whether it’s shelter from autumn rain or shielding against chilly winds, exhibitors at the Canterbury Home Show have you covered.
Pergolas and Louvres: The Canterbury Home show have a number of exhibitors who specialise in pergolas and adjustable louvre systems. These structures allow you to control sunlight and airflow, making your outdoor space comfortable no matter the weather. Add outdoor blinds for extra protection and privacy. You’d be surprised at the range of solutions and pricing options, making this an affordable way to extend your living area into the outdoors.
Sunrooms: For a more enclosed option, consider a sunroom. These versatile spaces let you enjoy the outdoors while staying warm and dry, blending the best of indoor and outdoor living. A number of renovation experts are on hand to talk through customisable sunroom designs that can be added on to existing structures. Its really up to you and your imagination to explore what is possible.
Keep the Chill Away with Outdoor Heating
As the temperatures drop, outdoor heating becomes essential for keeping your guests comfortable. The Canterbury Home Show features exhibitors offering a variety of heating solutions to suit your style and budget.
Outdoor Heaters: Look for sleek, energy-efficient outdoor heaters that can be wall-mounted or freestanding. These are perfect for creating a warm, inviting atmosphere for evening gatherings.
Fire Pits and Fire Tables: Fire pits are not just a source of warmth—they’re also a stunning focal point for your outdoor area. Customisable fire pits and fire tables combine functionality with aesthetic appeal.
Upgrade Your Decking and Flooring
A solid, weather-resistant deck is the foundation of any great outdoor entertaining area. Autumn is the perfect time to upgrade your decking to ensure it’s ready for year-round use.
Composite Decking: Composite decking is a popular choice for its durability, low maintenance, and sleek appearance. We have Exhibitors who specialise in composite decking, offering eco-friendly options that are resistant to weathering, fading, and staining. This makes it an excellent choice for Canterbury’s variable climate.
Hardwood Decking: For those who prefer a natural look, hardwood decking is a timeless option. It’s known for its strength, beauty, and ability to bridge indoor and outdoor spaces seamlessly. A number of Companies at the show provide high-quality hardwood decking materials, along with expert advice and installation services.
Custom Timber Decking: If you’re after a bespoke solution, our exhibitors specialise in designing and building custom timber decks. They use premium materials and deliver exceptional craftsmanship, ensuring your deck is both functional and visually stunning.
Raised Decking Solutions: For homes with uneven outdoor spaces or gardens lower than the house, raised decking is a practical and stylish solution. You’ll be about to find tailored solutions to elevate your deck to the perfect height, creating a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor areas.
Outdoor Rugs: While not a permanent solution , a simple and cost-effective way to add warmth and style to your deck with outdoor rugs. They’re an easy way to make your space feel cozy and inviting, especially during the cooler months.
Splash out with a Spa Pool or Hot Tub
Imagine soaking in a warm spa pool under the stars on a crisp autumn evening. Spa pools and hot tubs are a luxurious addition to any outdoor space, and several exhibitors at the Canterbury Home Show specialise in these features.
Spa Pools: No longer the power suckers of the past some companies are offering energy-efficient spa pools that are perfect for year-round use. Their models are designed to retain heat, ensuring you can enjoy a relaxing soak even on the coldest nights.
Hot Tubs: Consider a wooden hot tub for a more rustic feel. These not only provide warmth but also add a charming aesthetic to your outdoor area.
Make It Comfortable with Outdoor Furniture and Accessories
Comfortable seating and thoughtful accessories can transform your outdoor space into a cozy retreat that’s perfect for entertaining.
Outdoor Furniture: Exhibitors showcase a range of stylish and durable outdoor furniture. Look for weather-resistant materials that can handle Canterbury’s changeable climate.
Cushions and Throws: Add warmth and texture with outdoor cushions and throws. These accessories are perfect for creating a cozy atmosphere and can be easily swapped out to match the season.
Lighting: Set the mood with outdoor lighting. String lights, lanterns, and LED fixtures are all great options for illuminating your space and creating a magical ambiance.
Extend the Fun with Outdoor Kitchens and BBQ Areas
Why limit your cooking to the indoors? Outdoor kitchens and BBQ areas are a fantastic way to keep the party outside, even as the weather cools.
Outdoor Kitchens: Many exhibitors at the Canterbury Home Show offer modular outdoor kitchen solutions that include everything from built-in grills to sinks and storage. These setups make it easy to prepare and serve meals without having to run back and forth to your indoor kitchen.
Pizza Ovens: Add a touch of fun to your outdoor entertaining with a pizza oven. These are not only great for cooking but also serve as a unique conversation starter.
Embrace Nature with Greenery and Landscaping
Enhancing your outdoor entertaining area with thoughtful landscaping, plants, and trees can make a significant difference in creating a warmer, more usable space during the cooler autumn months.
Strategically placing trees and shrubs around your outdoor area can act as natural windbreaks, reducing chilly gusts and making the space more comfortable for you and your guests. Dense, evergreen plants like hedges or tall grasses are particularly effective at blocking wind while maintaining a lush, green aesthetic year-round. You can also add climbing plants, such as ivy or star jasmine, to pergolas or trellises, creating additional shelter from the elements while adding visual interest.
Consider incorporating raised garden beds or vertical gardens filled with herbs and seasonal flowers to add warmth and colour to the area. These not only enhance the ambiance but also provide a sense of coziness and enclosure that makes your space feel more intimate. Layering textures and foliage through landscaping can create microclimates, retaining warmth and extending the usability of your outdoor space well into autumn.
With the help of exhibitors at the Canterbury Home Show, extending your outdoor entertaining season into autumn is easier than ever. From pergolas and outdoor heaters to spa pools and outdoor kitchens, there are countless ways to create a cozy, functional space that you and your guests will love. Visit the Canterbury Home Show to explore these ideas and find the perfect solutions for your home
By making these upgrades, you’ll not only enhance your outdoor living experience but also add value to your property. So, why let the cooler weather stop you? Start planning your autumn outdoor oasis today!
