(NC) When the warm weather finally hits, Canadians are eager to get outside, kick back and relax with friends and family. Whether you're starting from scratch or refreshing your already enviable patio, there are more options than ever to make your backyard retreat the perfect place to disconnect and unwind.

Megan Schroeder, patio merchant for The Home Depot Canada shares some of this year's top trends in outdoor living.

Make the most of small spaces. Get away from the urban grind by turning your balcony into a cozy hideaway. Combine style and function with a beautiful bistro set that has a smaller footprint, and look for multi-function products like a wicker storage box that can double as a table or ottoman.

Choose comfortable chat sets. Dining sets used to be the most popular patio item, but summers are meant to be social so consider changing it up with a chat set or sectional. They're designed to mix food and entertaining by incorporating lower tables and comfortable, open seating.

Extend the season. The window of opportunity to enjoy the warm weather is short-lived, so look for ways to warm up your space and enjoy it well into the fall. A fire pit is the new must-have patio product for the year — they've come a long way in style and functionality to become a true centrepiece for your space. You can also add outdoor rugs, throw cushions and string lights to help create a warm ambiance.

Find more information and ideas at www.homedepot.ca.

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