Space of the Week: How One Couple Turned Their Patio Into a Cozy Spot for Year-Round Entertaining

One couple shows us how they created a four-season backyard.

Space of the Month Feb 2021, Deck Decor with Lights and Firepit
Photo: Bryan Gardner

Low temps don't keep Eduardo Rodriguez and Herman Vega from enjoying their great deck. With a few easy tweaks, they've managed to create a four-season backyard. This artistic couple has deep roots in the design world: Eduardo is an interior designer, and Herman is the creative director at People en Español. They've furnished the deck and patio of their home in New York's Catskills Mountains to reflect their luxurious-but-approachable aesthetic, and welcome guests year-round while practicing social distancing. Sure, it gets cold out there, but they keep warm the old-fashioned way: "with lots of firewood!" Here's how to bring their entertaining style to your own backyard.

Space of the Month Feb 2021, Deck Decor Ideas
Bryan Gardner

Get the Look:

01 of 04

Pile on the Pillows (and Blankets)

Deck Decor Ideas, Plaid Lumbar Pillows
QVC

Warm up your outdoor decor (and keep people toasty) with pillows, throws, and faux sheepskins.

02 of 04

Get It Glowing

Deck Decor Ideas, Wire Candle Holder
Crate & Barrel

Layer lighting for a glowy, inviting atmosphere. Lanterns and an outdoor floor lamp add ambience and illuminate the steps for safety.

03 of 04

Define the Space

Deck Decor, String Lights in Brass
West Elm

Create "rooms" by arranging furniture in distinct seating areas. Hang string lights to form a "ceiling" overhead.

04 of 04

Light the Fire

Deck Decor Ideas, Firepit
Amazon

The firepit makes 35-degree weather actually pleasant. Check out our safety guide.

Pro tip: To keep smoke from your eyes, use very dry firewood, and stack logs in the shape of a teepee or log cabin to maximize airflow.

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