Posted on: April 5, 2026
Outdoor living is a big part of why people build in the Kawarthas and cottage country. You want space to gather, relax, grill, and enjoy the view. The challenge is that Ontario’s seasons can be demanding. Bugs arrive quickly, spring can be wet, evenings cool down fast, and shoulder seasons often feel too short when outdoor space isn’t designed for comfort.
The most successful outdoor living areas are not an afterthought. They are planned alongside the home, so the flow is natural, the structure is durable, and the space gets used from early spring through late fall.
If you are planning a custom home or cottage build, here is how to think about covered porches, screened rooms, and deck design so your outdoor living space works the way you expect it to.
Quick answers to common questions
Should outdoor living be planned during the design phase?
Yes. When decks, porches, and screened rooms are designed with the home, you get better flow, better structure, and fewer compromises later.
What is the best outdoor living feature for Ontario?
It depends on lifestyle. Covered porches extend usability in rain and sun. Screened rooms help with bugs and cool evenings. Decks are flexible and great for views, especially when paired with good lighting and storage.
How do I make outdoor space last longer through the seasons?
Focus on sheltered transitions, durable materials, thoughtful lighting, and a layout that supports how you actually live.
For summer inspiration in the Kawarthas lifestyle read Savouring Summer: Outdoor Living in the Kawarthas
Start with how you want to use the space
Before choosing a deck size or porch style, clarify what outdoor living means to you. A quiet morning coffee space looks different than a large hosting area. Families with kids and dogs use outdoor space differently from couples who want a calm retreat.
Questions to guide the design
- Do you want dining outdoors, lounging, or both?
- Will you host often, or is it mainly for day-to-day use?
- Do you need shade during peak afternoon sun?
- Do bugs typically limit your evenings outdoors?
- Do you want the space to be usable throughout the seasons?
When your builder understands your lifestyle goals, the outdoor plan becomes more than square footage. It becomes functional living space you can enjoy.
How outdoor living affects the layout of the home
Outdoor spaces work best when they are integrated into the daily flow of the home or cottage. That often means aligning them with the kitchen, dining area, living space, and primary gathering zones.
Layout choices that help
- A door from the kitchen to the grill zone
- A dining room that opens to a covered area for easy hosting
- A living space that connects to a lounge area outdoors
- A mudroom or entry transition that keeps traffic organized
Planning outdoor flow early also supports structural decisions, making the final result feel cohesive instead of added on.
Covered porches: extend the season and protect the structure
A covered porch is one of the best ways to make outdoor time more enjoyable in Ontario. It protects you from the sun and rain and keeps your outdoor furniture protected, so it lasts longer.
Why covered works
- Comfortable even when the weather shifts
- Creates shade and reduces glare indoors
- Protects doors and thresholds from direct exposure
- Helps keep outdoor space usable during seasonal transitions
Coverage does not have to mean fully enclosed. Many homeowners choose a covered section for dining and an open section for sun and views.
Screened rooms: the upgrade that changes summer evenings
In many parts of Ontario, bugs are what end an evening outdoors early. A screened room gives you a comfortable, protected space that’s still open to the outdoors.
Benefits of screened rooms
- A place to eat, play cards, read, or relax without bugs
- Comfortable even when evenings cool down
- Protection from wind and light rain
- A strong fit for families and frequent hosting
Planning screens early also helps with electrical planning, lighting, and ceiling fan placement so the space feels finished.
Deck planning: views, safety, and long-term durability
Decks are often the centrepiece of a cottage country home. They also take a beating. Sun exposure, moisture, and freeze-thaw cycles can shorten the lifespan of your deck if it’s not designed and built expertly.
Deck decisions that matter
- Size based on furniture and movement space
- Stairs and access that work for daily use
- Railing choices that protect views without compromising safety
- Materials selected for durability and low maintenance
- Proper drainage and airflow below the deck
A deck should support how you move between indoor and outdoor spaces, and how you use the property day to day.
Covered transitions: make the home feel connected and practical
One of the biggest missed opportunities in outdoor planning is transitions. Covered transitions keep entries cleaner, reduce slip risk, and create a more comfortable flow between spaces.
Examples
- A covered entry from the parking areas to the door
- A sheltered path from the house to a screened room
- An outdoor storage zone tucked near a porch for cushions, toys, and gear
These small planning decisions often make the biggest difference in how the home feels to live or vacation in.
Storage, lighting, and durability: the details that make it usable
Outdoor space gets used when it is comfortable and functional. The details matter.
Storage planning
- Where will cushions go when it rains?
- Where will outdoor gear live?
- Do you need space for wood storage, lake gear, or kids’ equipment?
Lighting planning
- Task lighting near cooking and dining areas
- Soft lighting for evening ambiance
- Step and pathway lighting for safety
- Consider locations early so wiring is clean and purposeful
Durability planning
- Choose materials that match exposure and maintenance expectations
- Plan for easy cleaning and seasonal changeover
- Think about winter protection for furniture and features
Frequently asked questions
Is it better to build a screened room or a covered porch?
It depends on how you use the space. If bugs regularly limit your evenings, screened rooms are often the best improvement. If weather variability is the main issue, a covered porch can extend usability throughout the seasons.
Should I add outdoor living later if my budget is tight?
Some elements can be added later, but major structural decisions are easier when planned from the start. Even if you phase the build, it helps to design outdoor living now, so the home supports it.
Where can I see examples of outdoor living ideas?
Start with this inspiration post Savouring Summer: Outdoor Living in the Kawarthas and browse some project ideas
Have questions or want more information on planning the outdoor living spaces for your home or cottage? Contact the R. Moore Homes team today.
