Creating the Perfect Outdoor Living Space in Reno’s High Desert Climate

Reno, Nevada is known for its stunning landscapes, endless blue skies, and of course, its unique high desert climate. With low humidity, cool nights, and over 300 days of sunshine a year, it’s the perfect setting to design an outdoor living space that invites you to relax, entertain, and soak up the natural beauty of the region. But, crafting the ideal backyard oasis in Reno requires thoughtful planning and smart design choices tailored to the environment.

Whether you’re starting from scratch or updating your current setup, here’s a comprehensive guide to help you create the perfect outdoor living space that can stand up to the challenges—and take advantage of the perks—of Reno’s high desert climate.

Understand the Climate Before You Design

Before diving into materials and aesthetics, it’s crucial to understand what you’re working with. Reno’s high desert climate brings:

• Hot, dry summers with daytime temps often exceeding 90°F

• Cool nights, even in summer

• Cold winters that can drop below freezing

• Strong UV exposure due to higher elevation

• Occasional high winds and low precipitation
  

These conditions can wreak havoc on materials that aren’t built to endure drastic temperature swings and prolonged sun exposure. So durability and weather resistance should be top priorities.

Choose Weather-Resistant Furniture That Lasts

Outdoor furniture is the cornerstone of your living space. It sets the tone and provides the comfort needed to enjoy your backyard throughout the year. When shopping for pieces, look for materials that are built to last in the high desert.

RC Willey, a trusted furniture store in Reno, offers a wide range of stylish, high-quality outdoor furniture made from durable materials like powder-coated aluminum, teak, HDPE (high-density polyethylene) wicker, and Sunbrella fabrics—all great options for withstanding Reno’s extreme temperature changes and high UV levels.

Tip: Stick to fade-resistant cushions and rust-proof frames. It might be tempting to opt for budget-friendly pieces, but investing in quality now will save you the cost and hassle of frequent replacements.

Embrace Shade & Shelter

While the sunshine is one of Reno’s perks, having a break from the rays is essential. Consider incorporating shade elements into your outdoor design:

• Pergolas or gazebos create architectural interest while providing partial shade.

• Retractable awnings offer flexibility depending on the season or time of day.

• Outdoor umbrellas can be easily repositioned and stored during high winds.

• Shade sails are a modern, budget-friendly option that work well over patios or decks.
  

If you want to use your space year-round, consider adding a covered area that can accommodate heaters during the colder months.

Incorporate Native Landscaping

Landscaping in Reno should be both beautiful and sustainable. Native plants and xeriscaping not only complement the natural terrain, but they’re also water-wise and easy to maintain.

Some drought-tolerant options to consider:

• Sagebrush

• Rabbitbrush

• Russian sage

• Blue grama grass

• Desert marigolds

• Lavender
  

Add gravel pathways, boulders, and raised planters to give the space structure and texture. Plus, local wildlife like hummingbirds and butterflies will thank you!

Add Fire & Water Elements for Balance

Balance is key when designing any living space. To contrast the arid environment, consider adding both fire and water features. Fire pits or outdoor fireplaces offer warmth during chilly desert nights and become a natural gathering point. Look for gas or propane models with wind guards for safe, easy use.

Water features, like fountains or small recirculating waterfalls, add a calming ambiance and a cooling effect without using much water. These also help create a spa-like atmosphere and drown out any unwanted background noise from traffic or neighbors.

Lighting for Function and Ambiance

Don’t underestimate the power of outdoor lighting. Proper lighting extends the usability of your space and adds ambiance. In a high desert area like Reno, solar-powered options are a great fit thanks to the abundance of sunlight.

Ideas to light your outdoor space:

• String lights for a warm, festive vibe

• LED path lights to safely illuminate walkways

• Uplighting on trees and architectural features for drama

• Wall-mounted lanterns for cozy nooks or outdoor dining areas
  

Smart lighting systems can even be programmed to turn on automatically at dusk and off at dawn.

Create Zones for Multi-Purpose Use

Reno residents love to entertain and spend time outdoors, so designing zones will help you make the most of your backyard. Break up the space into distinct areas:

• Dining area with a weatherproof table and chairs

• Lounge area with a sectional or deep seating and side tables

• Cooking area featuring a grill, prep space, and maybe even a bar

• Play or garden area for kids, pets, or hobbies
  

If space allows, you can add a hammock under a tree, a yoga corner, or even an outdoor movie screen.

Don’t Forget Storage

To maintain a clutter-free and weather-resistant setup, plan for outdoor storage. Look for storage benches, deck boxes, or cabinets that match your furniture. These are perfect for stashing cushions, garden tools, or outdoor games.

RC Willey carries multi-functional outdoor storage solutions that blend seamlessly with the rest of your patio décor—worth checking out during your next visit to the leading furniture store in Reno.

Make It Your Own

Finally, add those personal touches that make the space feel uniquely yours. Throw pillows, outdoor rugs, lanterns, art pieces, and cozy throws bring your personality into the design. Just make sure they’re designed for outdoor use.

Reno’s skies put on a show nearly every evening, so set up your seating to catch those incredible sunsets. With thoughtful planning and the right furnishings, your outdoor living space can become your favorite room—just without the walls.

Final Thoughts

Designing the perfect outdoor space in Reno’s high desert climate is all about finding balance: between sun and shade, function and style, comfort and durability. By choosing weather-resistant furniture, incorporating smart landscaping, and designing for year-round use, you can turn your backyard into a desert paradise.

Need help getting started? Head to RC Willey, the premier furniture store in Reno, to explore their curated selection of outdoor furniture and décor. With expert guidance and top-tier products, you’ll be one step closer to building the backyard retreat you’ve always dreamed of.