How to Design Year-Round Outdoor Living Spaces Your Airbnb Guests Will Love

Designing an Outdoor Space That Works Year-Round (Not Just in Summer)

If you’re an Airbnb or vacation rental host, chances are your outdoor space is one of your property’s biggest selling points — especially in spring and summer. But what happens when the temps drop, the leaves fall, or the rain kicks in? Do guests still use your patio, backyard, or deck in the off-season?

With a few smart upgrades, they absolutely can.

In this blog, I’ll show you how to design an outdoor space that guests love all year long — with cozy features for cooler months, versatile seating, lighting, and weather-ready materials. Whether you're in the mountains, desert, suburbs, or near the coast, these ideas will help maximize bookings and boost your property’s outdoor appeal even in the off-season.

1. Provide Year-Round Shade and Shelter

✔ Install a Pergola or Gazebo

Adding a pergola or gazebo provides instant structure, and with the right roofing or retractable cover, it becomes a space that works through rain, wind, or snow. For extra comfort, add side curtains, retractable shades, or transparent panels. These not only protect your space — they enhance it with dimension, privacy, and a cozy, tucked-in atmosphere.

✔ Add a Weatherproof Canopy or Awning

For decks and patios without much coverage, a stylish, waterproof awning can extend the usability of the space without requiring a full permanent build. This is especially useful for vacation homes in tropical or coastal climates where shade and UV protection matter year-round.

✔ Choose Covered Structures with High Durability

Wood, vinyl, or powder-coated metal structures can withstand all seasons, especially when anchored correctly and treated for moisture or UV damage. Look for pre-treated pergolas or kits with included weather protection for faster setup and longer-lasting use.

2. Add Warmth With Heating Elements

✔ Fire Pits and Fire Tables

Not just cozy — these are also excellent visual centerpieces. Choose smokeless wood-burning models or propane fire tables for clean-burning convenience. Circular setups invite conversation, while rectangular fire tables work well for long dining spaces.

✔ Patio Heaters

Freestanding or wall-mounted infrared heaters are excellent for chillier climates. Place them near dining tables, seating areas, or even outdoor kitchens. For rentals with limited storage, opt for foldable or wheeled designs that can be moved or stored easily.

✔ Layer With Textiles

Offer throw blankets in outdoor-friendly storage bins, and choose weather-resistant cushions or covers. Cozy textures make even cooler evenings inviting. Use fleece or acrylic textiles, which hold up better to damp air and temperature changes than cotton.

3. Use All-Weather Furniture That Holds Up in Any Season

Outdoor furniture that fades, cracks, or warps in a single season can become a liability fast. Invest in weather-tough options like:

• Polywood or HDPE resin furniture
• Powder-coated aluminum frames
• Teak or acacia wood (sealed for moisture)
• All-weather wicker

These materials are specifically designed to survive everything from blazing sun to snowy mornings. Avoid untreated wood or cheap plastic alternatives, as they often degrade quickly and make your space look tired.

Bonus: Choose neutral tones and add pops of seasonal color with pillows, lanterns, or rugs. This lets you refresh the look of your space affordably between guest stays.

4. Light It Up for Evening and Off-Season Ambience

Shorter days in fall and winter mean you’ll need lighting that’s both functional and atmospheric.

✔ Outdoor String Lights

These remain a guest favorite. Drape them across pergolas, fences, or trees for an instant glow. Choose heavy-duty, waterproof versions with timers or solar capabilities.

✔ Solar Path Lights or Spotlights

Help guests navigate safely in the dark — while subtly highlighting landscaping or architectural features. Low-voltage lighting systems also work well for long driveways or remote pathways.

✔ LED Lanterns or Sconces

Create a cozy feel without relying solely on overhead lighting. Place them near seating, swings, or dining setups. Lantern-style sconces on fence posts or railings can add upscale appeal.

Pro Tip: Combine different lighting sources (overhead, ambient, task) to create layers and avoid harsh shadows.

5. Design Flexible Zones for All Weather

The best year-round outdoor spaces function like indoor rooms. Divide your yard or patio into zones to accommodate multiple guest needs and weather conditions.

✔ Dining Areas

Make sure your outdoor table can accommodate all seasons. Opt for rust-resistant tables with removable or water-resistant cushions. Pair with a fire table for added warmth, or place under a pergola for sun and rain protection.

✔ Lounging Zones

Use deep-seated furniture with high-quality cushions, and position it under covered areas. Swing beds with waterproof cushions are a huge draw for couples or families looking for Instagram-worthy moments.

✔ Quiet Corners

Add a hammock, swing chair, or reading bench with overhead protection for rainy-day vibes. Use climbing vines or privacy screens to create separation from the main yard.

✔ Activity Zones

Include a small area for games (e.g., cornhole or giant Jenga) with artificial turf or deck tiles that drain easily. These can be rotated seasonally and stored during heavy weather.

6. Storage, Protection, and Upkeep

Even the best-designed space needs upkeep to remain rental-ready.

✔ Storage Benches or Boxes

Keep blankets, cushions, or games close by and protected. Look for waterproof options with ventilation to avoid mold and mildew — especially if your space is in a humid or coastal area.

✔ Protective Covers

Invest in fitted covers for fire pits, chairs, and tables. These keep your investments looking great year-round and reduce off-season wear and tear.

✔ Clean and Reset Seasonally

Refresh the space with seasonal accessories, sweep debris, and do a quick spot check on hardware and stability. A short reset between peak seasons can keep your space visually fresh and photo-ready.

Final Touches: How to Make It All Feel Like a Retreat

• Add greenery: Use planters with hardy evergreen shrubs or seasonal flowers.
• Use layered textures: Wood, stone, fabric, and metal together create depth and visual interest.
• Install a sound element: A water feature or outdoor speaker adds atmosphere.
• Make it photo-worthy: A cozy swing under twinkling lights or a warm fire table setup = instant Instagram magnet.
• Switch with the seasons: Add pumpkins and lanterns in fall, cozy blankets and pine decor in winter, or breezy linens in spring.

Wrap-Up: Year-Round Outdoor Space = Year-Round Bookings

You don’t need perfect weather to create a perfect guest experience. By designing an outdoor space that adapts to the seasons, you’ll not only increase the appeal of your listing — you’ll also stand out from other hosts who go dark once summer ends.

Remember: comfort, lighting, protection, and flexible zones are key to a four-season outdoor area. With the right setup, your space can shift from sun-soaked summer patio to a cozy autumn lounge to a magical winter hideaway.

Ready to extend your season and wow your guests no matter the weather? Browse our collection of year-round outdoor upgrades at Optimal Outdoor Oasis and turn your space into a guest-favorite retreat all 12 months of the year.