Maximizing your outdoor living space in Alberta

Maximizing outdoor living spaces in Alberta can be a challenge due to the province's varying weather conditions. But with the right planning and design, it's possible to create a beautiful and functional outdoor area that can be enjoyed year-round. 

This article aims to provide some tips to help you maximize your outdoor living spaces throughout every season in Alberta.


General tips for maximizing outdoor living spaces in Alberta

If you’re going to do anything outdoors make sure you at least start with the following tips: 

  1. Choose the right location

    Is it your back deck? Maybe it’s a fire pit area? Select a spot for your outdoor living area that gets the most sunlight and provides a good view of your yard or garden.

  2. Invest in quality materials

    Make it last. Materials such as stone, concrete, and cedar are durable and able to withstand Alberta's harsh weather.

  3. Incorporate lighting

    It gets dark fast in the winter. Add lighting to your outdoor space to brighten up dark winter days and create a warm and inviting atmosphere.

  4. Consider functionality

    Incorporate features such as built-in seating, storage, and cooking areas to make your outdoor space more functional and enjoyable.

Winter tips for maximizing outdoor living spaces in Alberta

Maximizing outdoor living spaces in Alberta’s winter months isn’t easy thanks to the cold temperatures and unpredictable snow. 

If you’re Albertan, you know it’s possible to create a functional and enjoyable outdoor space even during the winter months. 

Here are some tips to help you maximize your outdoor living spaces in Alberta during the winter:

  1. Provide heat

    Incorporate outdoor heating solutions, such as fire pits, patio heaters, or built-in fireplaces, to make your outdoor space comfortable even on the coldest days.

  2. Incorporate lighting

    Add lighting to your outdoor space to brighten up dark winter days and create a warm and inviting atmosphere.

  3. Use weather-resistant materials

    Choose materials that won’t succumb to the freeze and thaw of Alberta winters.

  4. Incorporate snow and ice features

    Consider adding features such as a sledding hill, ice-skating rink, or fire pit to your outdoor space to create areas for winter recreation.

  5. Create shelter

    Incorporate elements such as gazebos or covered patios to provide shelter from the snow and cold.

  6. Make it accessible

    Install pathways, steps, and handrails to make your outdoor space easy to access, even during the winter months.

  7. Use outdoor furniture

    Invest in high-quality, weather-resistant outdoor furniture that is both comfortable and durable, to make your outdoor space usable and enjoyable even during the winter.

Summer tips for maximizing outdoor living spaces in Alberta

Alberta summers are some of the sunniest in the entire world. We get as high as 17 hours of sunlight per day at the peak of summer. 

Those prolonged sun rays call for outdoor living. 

So here are some tips for maximizing outdoor living spaces in Alberta during the summer:

  1. Utilize shading

    You can’t absorb all that sunlight so install shade sails, pergolas, or umbrellas to provide you protection throughout the day.

  2. Create privacy

    As much as you love your neighbors your outdoor living space is an extension of your home. Use privacy screens, fences, or landscaping to create a secluded and intimate outdoor space.

  3. Add greenery

    Having a place to enjoy the summer sun is great—know what makes it even better? Incorporating plants and flowers into your outdoor living space to create a lush and inviting atmosphere.

  4. Tap-in to water features

    Consider adding a fountain, pond, or pool to your outdoor space to create a relaxing and soothing environment.

  5. Create entertaining areas

    Incorporate features such as a built-in bar, grill, or fire pit to make your outdoor space an ideal location for entertaining.

  6. Incorporate activity areas

    Add a horseshoe pit, bocce ball court, or swing set to create areas for active recreation.

  7. Make it comfortable

    Add comfortable furnishings, such as outdoor couches, chairs, and cushions, to make your outdoor space more inviting.


If you follow some of these tips you will find yourself enjoying your outdoor space even more than before. 

Take advantage of our amazing Alberta summer weather and conquer the winter with a thoughtfully designed and functional outdoor space. 

If you’re looking to make your outdoor living space dreams a reality, contact Timbertstone Builders today. 

Contact Timberstone Builders today for a free estimate on your next project! Email us at info@timberstonebuilders.ca or call Steve at 780-499-5266.

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