How to Design an Outdoor Living Space You’ll Use All Year Round

In Tennessee, we’re lucky to enjoy all four seasons—but that doesn’t mean your outdoor living space has to sit unused half the year. With the right design choices, you can create a backyard area that’s functional, inviting, and comfortable 365 days a year.

At Reed’s Remodeling, we help homeowners across Murfreesboro and Rutherford County build outdoor spaces that aren’t just beautiful, but built to last—and built to use year-round.

Here’s how to turn your backyard into a true four-season retreat:


🔥 1. Add Heating Elements for Cool Weather Comfort

Even the most beautiful space can go unused when temperatures drop. Built-in or portable heating options can extend your outdoor season well into fall and winter.

Popular options include:

  • Built-in gas or wood-burning fireplaces

  • Patio heaters (freestanding or ceiling-mounted)

  • Fire pits with stone surrounds or built-in seating

  • Radiant heat under pavers or concrete patios (ideal for covered areas)

These features create cozy gathering spots that invite year-round use, even on chilly nights.


🌬️ 2. Block the Wind, Not the View

Tennessee winters may be mild, but even a light breeze can cut a gathering short. Windbreaks help shield your space from gusts without feeling boxed in.

Try these smart solutions:

  • Pergolas with retractable side curtains or screens

  • Outdoor-rated privacy panels or louvered walls

  • Strategic landscaping with shrubs or evergreen hedges

  • Glass or polycarbonate panels to block wind while preserving visibility

Bonus: these features also add a layer of shade and privacy in the warmer months.


💦 3. Choose Weather-Resistant Materials

Not all outdoor materials are created equal. To keep your space looking great through sun, rain, and frost, invest in materials designed to endure.

We recommend:

  • Composite decking for long-lasting durability and low maintenance

  • Stone or concrete pavers that won’t crack or fade easily

  • Weather-rated fabrics for cushions, drapes, and awnings

  • Stainless steel or powder-coated aluminum for outdoor kitchens and furniture

These materials are designed to handle Tennessee’s shifting weather without constant upkeep.


☀️ 4. Provide Shade for the Summer Months

Year-round use also means staying cool in the summer. Shade structures make your outdoor space livable when the heat hits.

Options include:

  • Covered patios or porch extensions

  • Pergolas with shade cloth or retractable canopies

  • Ceiling fans to circulate air and deter bugs

  • Tree-lined sections to bring natural cover to your design


🌟 5. Lighting Makes It Functional After Dark

Whether it’s winter nights or summer evenings, outdoor lighting turns your backyard into a true extension of your home.

Incorporate:

  • String lights for ambiance

  • Wall sconces or path lights for safety

  • Recessed lighting in ceilings or overhangs

  • Motion sensors and dimmers for energy efficiency

The right lighting turns your space into a nighttime haven, even when the sun sets early.


Ready to Build a Backyard You’ll Love in Every Season?

Reed’s Remodeling helps homeowners across Murfreesboro, Rockvale, Christiana, and beyond design and build custom outdoor living spaces that truly work year-round—from cozy fire pits to outdoor kitchens and all-season patios.

📞 Call us today to schedule a free consultation.
🏡 Your backyard should work as hard as your home—let’s make it a space you’ll use every season.