5 essentials for the ultimate patio experience this fall
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As the fall season blows in, it’s the perfect time to cozy up on the patio with a warm drink and watch the leaves change. To make your outdoor space the ultimate setting for the change in seasons, here are five essentials your patio needs, plus where to find them around Birmingham.
1. A Toasty Fire Pit
If you’re going to spend time on your patio during the cooler-weathered months of fall, you’re going to need to add some heat elements to your space. One of the coziest and most popular choices is a fire pit.
There is a dizzying array of fire pit options out there, so it’s important to narrow down your options to find the right one for you and your space.
Things to consider:
- Size of space vs size of fire pit
- Distance available between seating and fire pit. (Tip: 5-7 ft. around all edges of fire pit from furniture; at least 10 ft. from buildings and fences.)
You’ll also want to avoid placing a fire pit directly on a wooden patio unless you know the do’s and don’ts.
Other ideas to bring the element of heat to your outdoor patio include fireplaces, heaters and heat lamps. Outdoor furniture like metal and plastic easily absorb temperatures, so avoid frozen buns with some cushions.
Where to shop: ABSCO Fireplace & Patio
Address: Inverness – 4643 US-280, Birmingham, AL 35242 | Pelham – 1040 Oak Mountain State Park Rd, Pelham, AL 35124
Contact: Inverness – 205.995.1477 | Pelham – 205.6826302 | info@abscofireplace.com
Hours: Monday-Friday, 10AM-6PM | Saturday, 9AM-5PM
Website | Facebook | Instagram
2. Comfortable Seating
Nothing makes a patio more inviting than a place to sit and relax. So, when creating that outdoor space, be sure to include comfortable seating.
Items to have on your radar:
- Outdoor Sectionals
- Cushioned Lounge Chairs
- Swivel/Rocking Chairs
Where to shop: La-Z-Boy Furniture Galleries
Address: 2944 Hwy 150, Birmingham, AL 35244 | 5401 Hwy 280, Hoover, AL 35242 | 1811 Crestwood Blvd, Irondale, AL 35210
Contact: Birmingham – 205. | Hoover – 205. | Irondale – 205.956.1994
Hours: Birmingham + Hoover – Monday-Saturday, 10AM-8PM, Sunday, Noon-6PM | Irondale – Monday-Saturday, 10AM-7PM, Sunday, Noon-6PM
Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter
3. A Place to Gather
A table is a welcoming addition to any patio, making it a great spot for people to join together for a drink or a game of cards. Whether your table seats two or 10, there is a plethora of options available.
Tip: for uncovered patio spaces, consider using protectant spray on tables made of wood and metal. This will help them last longer so you can enjoy them for seasons to come.
Where to shop: Blackjack Gardens
Address: 5549 Derby Drive, Birmingham, Alabama 35210
Contact: 205.836.2933 Hours: Monday-Saturday, 10AM-4PM
Website | Facebook
4. Ambiotic Lighting
The merge from warm months to cool means it gets dark outside much earlier. This being said, lighting is key to enjoying your outdoor patio. And no, that single flickering bulb outside your back door won’t cut it.
From string lights and lanterns to outdoor sconces and spotlights, you can create the perfect ambiance for family nights, get-togethers and more.
Where to Shop: Lighting Concepts
Address: 570 Simmons Dr, Trussville, AL 35173
Contact: 205.655.7285
Website | Facebook
5. Fun Accents
After enhancing your patio with furniture, lighting and more, it’s time for the last step—adding accents. This final step will provide that extra pop of pizzazz that truly defines your space.
Here are some ideas to consider:
- Art work + statues
- Area rugs
- Candles
- Potted plants
- Small tables
- Throw pillows + blankets
Where to shop: Summer Classics
Address: 3140 Pelham Pkwy Suite 200, Pelham, AL 35124
Contact: 205.358.9200
Hours: Sunday, Noon-5PM | Monday, 10AM-5PM | Tuesday-Friday, 10AM-6PM
Website | Facebook | Instagram
What’s your favorite place to shop for outdoor patio essentials around Birmingham? Let us know on social at @BhamNow on Facebook and Instagram, or @Now_Bham on Twitter.
