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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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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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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.