8 Winter-Proof Patio Designs We Love + the Hottest Trends You'll See Come Spring

Patio envy is real, you guys.

There's no shortage of picture-perfect patios in the spring and summer months, but by winter, most people pack their outdoor spaces up. When it’s too cold to throw a backyard bash or take a dip in the pool, what’s the use, right?

Guess again, friends. With snow on the ground and a chill in the air, winter is an ideal time to head outside and curl up on your patio (read: around the fire pit, wine glass in hand). Here are just a few of the many winter-proof patios we're currently lusting after, plus several design trends to inspire you for spring.

Rustic Patio With Swing

Rustic Patio with Fireplace

Fun details fill the house with personality, like the rope swing and fireplace on this covered porch and the round porthole-style window in the nearby library. Designed by Bill Moore, Chris Reebals and Emory Ratliff

Photo by: Chris Luker Photography

Chris Luker Photography

We love this rustic-chic retreat from Christopher Architecture & Interiors so much that we chose it as a 2016 Faces of Design category winner. And who could blame us? Where the patio's stone surround and fireplace provide shelter and warmth, the contemporary swing bed and throws ensure vacation-style comfort. 10/10 HGTV editors do want.

Backyard Patio Seating

Black Iron Patio Furniture With Neutral Cushions and Fish Scale Throw Pillows on Brick Back Patio

Orange fish scale patterned throw pillows compliment the orange hue in the brick patio flooring. The black iron outdoor living room set is padded with plush neutral cushions. Greenery surrounds the patio space including shaped trees framing the large window.

Photo by: G CRAWFORD

G CRAWFORD

Another surefire way to beat the winter blues? Layer your patio with accents in warm, cheerful colors. We love how design duo Julie and Melissa of Massucco Warner Miller Interiors paired pillows in coral and blush to keep this outdoor space visually warm year-round.

Stone Patio with Fire Pit

Stone Patio with Fire Pit

Enjoy the snowy scenic views in this outdoor entertaining area with a curved wooden bench, a fire pit and a stone patio.

Of course, you can always turn up the heat by matching those warm hues with a fire feature, as seen in this patio by Mary Anne Smiley. Where the orange cushions pop against the surrounding snow, the fire pit creates an irresistible glow.

chic porch

Chic Mountain Home Porch

Designer Brian Patrick Flynn brings city chic to this mountain home porch.

Photo by: Emily J. Followill

Emily J. Followill

Speaking of #PatioGoals, we love this layered look from Brian Patrick Flynn. Not only are the jewel tones right on trend, but the mix of velvet, cotton and plaid fabrics makes us feel bundled up for the season.

HGTV Dream Home 2017: Backyard Fire Pit With Stone Pavers

The Ultimate Gathering Spot

The updated backyard with water views includes an inviting seating area that offers an ideal spot to gather and watch the sunset and local birds who visit the property.

Photo by: Tomas Espinoza

Tomas Espinoza

We know, we know: St. Simons Island, Ga. isn't exactly prone to winter weather (one of its many enviable features). Still, with plenty of lounge chairs gathered 'round the fire pit, this enclosed patio from the 2017 HGTV Dream Home makes us excited for a chilly evening down by the marshlands.

Tour the 2017 HGTV Dream Home:

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Neutral Contemporary Enclosed Porch

Gorgeous Contemporary Enclosed Porch With Bunch Gray Curtains, Animal Hide Rug and Wicker Sofa

White cushions on the tan wicker sofa shine against the neutral hues in this enclosed porch. A mixture of throw pillows decorate the sofa and add color to the room. A blue animal hide rug adds texture and shape while gray curtains are bunched in the windows allowing natural light to fill the room.

Photo by: Emily Jenkins Followill Photography

Emily Jenkins Followill Photography

Alternatively, if cold weather is in your forecast, you can keep frostbite at bay by adding drapes to your outdoor space. Heavy curtains in darker shades, like these dramatic beauties by designer John McClain, will both soak up sunlight and shield your patio from any intrusive, nose-nipping breezes. Pair with black accents for maximum visual interest.

Asian Patio

Copper Garden Wall Weaved With Birch Trees With Row of Succulents and Landscape Lighting on Asian Patio

A striped floor leads to the highlight of this patio design featuring a 3D designed copper wall. Birch trees weave through the protruding panels of the wall integrating the design with the garden. A row of lush succulents lines the wall with landscape lighting shining up and reflecting off the metal finish.

Photo by: Barbara Boissevain Photography

Barbara Boissevain Photography

Along those same lines, accent walls can also help you make the most of your patio in winter. In this Asian-inspired space from designer Randy Thueme, the 3D copper wall not only adds beautiful color and texture to the backyard but also protects the space from harsh winds.

Rustic House Exterior With Outdoor Bench and Firepit

Relaxing Outdoor Patio at Arizona Desert Retreat

A U-shaped outdoor bench with trellis-patterned cushions overlooks stunning views of the Arizona desert and mountains. In the middle of bench sits a long stone firepit, making this the perfect outdoor space for gathering with friends.

Photo by: Thompson Photographic

Thompson Photographic

Needless to say, an evening around this elongated fire pit from designer Tor Barstad doesn't sound too shabby either. We'd love to kick back and relax with those desert views in the distance.

 3 Patio Trends You'll See in Spring

Modern Lighted Pergola With Firepit

Modern Lighted Pergola With Firepit

Designer Christopher Grubb put together a contemporary pergola from renewable redwood lumber. It features a freestanding outdoor shower, gas fire pit, fountain and sectional sofa. Simply draw the pergola curtains and there's an instant feel of privacy behind closed doors.

Photo by: Scott Mayoral

Scott Mayoral

We're calling it now, folks: Pantone's Color of the Year, Greenery, is going to make a statement across patios everywhere this season. Expect to see this springy shade come through in throw pillows, dining tables and even as an accent color on sheds and gazebos. This patio from Christopher Grubb is ultimate #designspiration.

Backyard With Fire Pit

Backyard With Fire Pit and Pool

Whether you're cozied up by the fire pit or swimming in the pool, this backyard has no shortage of sweeping mountain views.

Photo by: Scott Hargis Photography

Scott Hargis Photography

Patios with a view? That'll do, pig, that'll do. Designer Holly Bender was way ahead of the curve when she styled this yard to include sweeping sights of the mountains and a fire pit that doubles as modern artwork. Come spring, you can bet that homeowners everywhere will be curating their patios with features that look like they, too, belong in the Museum of Modern Art.

Pool Area with Swing Bed, Pergola and Lighting

Pool Area with Swing Bed, Pergola and Lighting

The swing-bed pergola defines a space for homeowners to sit back and enjoy their backyard. Palm trees were added to add more of a resort-vibe to nights by the pool. Touches of home can be seen in the columns, which mimic the front porch, and dainty white picket fences on either side.

Photo by: Steve Silverman Imaging

Steve Silverman Imaging

What other trends can you expect to see soon? Luxe lighting. Take note from Mom's Design Build now and prepare to illuminate your patio with bistro lights, planters with LEDs and other fresh, show-stopping features that will evoke an enchanting atmosphere.

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