Late Summer Living: Designing a Colorado Backyard You’ll Love All Year

In Colorado, late summer is a sweet spot for outdoor living. Warm days, cooler evenings, and those stunning August sunsets make it the perfect time to enjoy your backyard—and to think ahead about how to keep it beautiful and functional as the seasons change. With the right design and planning now, you can savor your outdoor spaces well into fall and set the stage for year-round enjoyment.

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1. Take Advantage of Late-Summer Comfort

August in Colorado offers long daylight hours and cooler nights—ideal for both entertaining and relaxing outdoors

• Add ambient lighting like string lights or lanterns for late-evening gatherings.
• Use lightweight, breathable fabrics for cushions and throws to keep seating comfortable.
• Incorporate shade solutions such as umbrellas or pergolas for daytime use without overheating.

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2. Plant for a Strong Fall Transition

Late summer is a great time to refresh your planting beds with varieties that thrive into the cooler months.

• Introduce fall-blooming perennials such as asters or rudbeckia for lasting color.
• Plant evergreens or ornamental grasses for winter interest.
• Swap out tired summer annuals for cool-season container plants that add texture and richness.

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3. Prep for Cooler Evenings

As nights get crisper, design elements that provide warmth and shelter extend your outdoor season.

• Add a fire pit or outdoor fireplace as a gathering spot.
• Invest in all-weather blankets or heaters for patio comfort.
• Use wind screens or retractable panels to shield seating areas from sudden gusts.

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4. Protect and Maintain Key Features

Late summer is also a smart time to start thinking about weatherproofing.

• Inspect irrigation systems for leaks and adjust schedules to match cooler temperatures.
• Treat or seal wood furniture and decks to guard against fall rain and winter snow.
• Trim back overgrown shrubs or trees to keep pathways and views clear.

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5. Think Ahead to Four-Season Use

A well-designed Colorado backyard works year-round.

• Plan hardscape elements—like patios, walkways, and seating walls—that function in every season.
• Use layered planting to create visual interest in winter when deciduous trees are bare.
• Include evergreen focal points so the landscape never feels empty.

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Conclusion

Late summer is more than just the tail end of the outdoor season—it’s the perfect time to make updates, add warmth, and prepare your backyard for the months ahead. With the right design, your Colorado outdoor space can be a favorite destination from August through the snowiest winter day.

Ready to make the most of your backyard now and in every season? Contact Environmental Designs to start your late-summer design plan today.

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