Here in the northeast, the last half of January typically brings the coldest weather of the year. Between the snow, wind, and gray skies, it’s hard to imagine spending more time outside than we absolutely have to.

But before long, we’ll be turning the calendar to April, and it will be time to start thinking about sprucing up our respective decks, porches, patios, and balconies. Let’s take a minute to look at each of these to better understand their decorating options and opportunities.

Nothing compares to the humble porch when it comes to evocative imagery. The word itself calls to mind sitting with family, watching the world go by as you sip lemonade, coffee, or an afternoon cocktail.

Strictly speaking, a porch is any elevated structure with a roof. Whether located in the front of the house (commonly known as a “front entry” porch), extending around the side in the popular “wraparound” configuration, or offering a view of the yard from a beloved “back” porch, it’s all about relaxation.

It’s no coincidence that Highwood’s most popular porch products enable just this kind of invitation to slow down and sit awhile. The Lehigh and Weatherly Porch Swings are a blend of clean lines, charm, and sophistication. And there’s always room for a rocker, like our contemporary Weatherly or stately Lehigh Rocking Chairs. Use them alone, or pair with our versatile Adirondack Coffee Table, and you’ll be coming back evening after evening when things warm up.

Balconies are good for far more than re-enacting Shakespeare. Typically, a “true” balcony is any space, open to the outdoors, with a floor and railings. There are also “faux” (lacking a floor, decorative only) and “false” (with standing area but not enough room for furniture) variations.

Given that balconies tend to be smaller than the other spaces mentioned here, balconies are all about getting closer. Set down a Folding Adirondack Side Table and pull up a pair of Hamilton Folding and Reclining or Classic Westport Adirondack Chairs to share a quiet moment with your Romeo (or Juliet).

Probably the most common area for outdoor dining and recreation—the patio—is a paved, ground-level area adjoining a house, cottage, or other building. Concrete, stone, cobbles, brick, any material goes, and the fact that it is typically uncovered to sun and rain means that it’s a great spot to arrange a raised bed, some potted plants, or other decorative vegetation.

The exposure to the weather also means that your furniture should be able to withstand the elements. Fortunately, all Highwood products are made from 100% recycled plastics, weatherproof, and guaranteed to never crack, peel, or rot. They look just like real wood, minus the hassle of sanding, staining, or painting.

Patios are probably the largest outdoor entertaining spots, and since most of them end where the backyard begins, they offer a chance to spread out and create something grand. Consider the Bodhi Pergola, available in 10’x10’, 10’x12’, and 12’x12’ sizes, with or without your choice of swings. With a Pergola as an anchor point, you’re ready to go big—maybe with a set of four Classic Westport Adirondack Chairs, complete with two folding side tables. Whichever you choose, the patio is sure to be the site of countless gatherings, big, small, and everything in between.

Decks are roofless platforms, generally made of wood or composite material with walkout access from inside the home. Decks offer ground-level living space, they can be elevated to a second floor, or they may even be “multilevel” designs that transition between the two.

Furnishing your deck is all about flexibility. You may have a sprawling, backyard-adjacent area like a patio, ready for a grill, pergola, or large seating set…or all of the above. If your deck is a more cozy space, consider Highwood’s Lehigh Garden Conversation Set, a curated collection that creates a comfortable, inviting area to sit and chat.

No matter which outdoor space you prefer, Highwood is your go-to for U.S. made, weatherproof furniture that transforms your porch, patio, deck, or balcony into an elegant entertaining spot.