Space of the Week: How One Couple Turned Their Patio Into a Cozy Spot for Year-Round Entertaining
Bryan Gardner
Low temps don't keep Eduardo Rodriguez and Herman Vega from enjoying their great deck. With a few easy tweaks, they've managed to create a four-season backyard. This artistic couple has deep roots in the design world: Eduardo is an interior designer, and Herman is the creative director at People en Español. They've furnished the deck and patio of their home in New York's Catskills Mountains to reflect their luxurious-but-approachable aesthetic, and welcome guests year-round while practicing social distancing. Sure, it gets cold out there, but they keep warm the old-fashioned way: "with lots of firewood!" Here's how to bring their entertaining style to your own backyard.
RELATED: How to Create the Ultimate Patio for Outdoor Entertaining
Bryan Gardner
Get the Look:
Pile on the Pillows (and Blankets)
Warm up your outdoor decor (and keep people toasty) with pillows, throws, and faux sheepskins.
Get It Glowing
Layer lighting for a glowy, inviting atmosphere. Lanterns and an outdoor floor lamp add ambience and illuminate the steps for safety.
Define the Space
Create "rooms" by arranging furniture in distinct seating areas. Hang string lights to form a "ceiling" overhead.
Light the Fire
The firepit makes 35-degree weather actually pleasant. Check out our safety guide.
Pro tip: To keep smoke from your eyes, use very dry firewood, and stack logs in the shape of a teepee or log cabin to maximize airflow.