Want to enjoy the pleasure of fall right in your own backyard? A few outdoor features can help you savor the season’s sunshine as you transition from pool side parties to enjoying spectacular fall colors.

Whether you want to sip hot cider on a brisk fall evening, have a small, festive gathering with a few close friends, or simply enjoy a few moments of tranquility after sending your kids off to school, here are a few ideas to turn your outdoor living area into a lavish retreat to enjoy your fall outdoor space to the fullest.

1. Warmth

An old world stone fireplace will allow you to watch the leaves turn bright red and gold while roasting marshmallows. Add a cluster of pumpkins, mums, gourds, and fall leaves around the mantel and hearth to add flair to autumn gatherings. If the current economy still has you anxious, don’t despair. Free standing fire pits are less expensive but add coziness and warmth to any outdoor living space. Or consider incorporating an outside space heater so your guests will be protected from the nip of chilly fall breezes.

2. Entertainment

How about adding a TV with some comfortable seating for catching fall football games and entertaining friends and family?  Bundling up and watching a game outside can be great fun. A dedicated outdoor home theater is ideal; however if that’s not an option, indoor modern flat-panel TVs are lightweight and easy to bring outside for special events. Add a DVD player and cozy quilt for a family movie night.

3. Dining Area

Even a small area can be turned into the perfect outdoor dining room for a fall meal. Just add a rustic table, throw down a colorful and vibrant outdoor rug to define the space, and decorate with an indigo runner and a mix of blue-and-white china to add to the vintage feel. Casually placed pumpkins or a bucket of fresh apples provides a subtle, seasonal touch. You can also add a light fixture to your patio or pergola for softly lit evenings. A low hanging outdoor chandelier can give a touch of elegance or a hanging lantern offers a more casual effect. Or string a strand of lights on nearby trees or a trellis for extra sparkle. You can also buy lights that emit heat to keep your outdoor dining space warm.

4. Protection

Of course, porches and covered patios offer protection from chilly weather and soft fall rains. For another creative option, build a pergola to add architectural sophistication and charm to your home. Although pergolas typically have open tops made of beams or laths, you can provide handy shelters with retractable canopies that are waterproof and stylish. In addition, a retractable canopy can give you as much or little coverage as you choose, allowing you to enjoy that last bit of warm sunshine before winter sets in. Curtains that mount to an outdoor structure can provide side coverage and protection from chilly winds.

5. Water

A hot tub or Jacuzzi can create the perfect way to stay toasty while relaxing as the temperatures drop. Or add a water feature and you’ll still have time to enjoy the beauty and tranquility of a waterfall or pond during these fall months and in the future as well. Water is soothing and adds beauty and tranquility to any outdoor space. In addition, its sounds can displace other less pleasant sounds like road traffic or noisy neighbors. You’ll feel like nature has come to you when you create a relaxing oasis to enjoy the beauty of autumn just steps from your own back door.

Extend the pleasure of fall with any of these features and embellish your home with style. You’ll have the perfect fall outdoor space to relax by a crackling fire, have a glass of wine, or enjoy a fall evening of entertainment with family and friends.