Beat the Heat: Summer-Proof Outdoor Living Spaces
How to Stay Cool and Comfortable in Your Florida Backyard
Florida summers are famous for their sunshine—and their soaring temperatures. At Viera Builders, we believe your outdoor spaces should be just as enjoyable in July as they are in January. That’s why we design homes with comfort and livability in mind, from breezy lanais to shaded retreats. And thanks to our in-house pool company, Viera Pools & Outdoor Living, we can help you turn your backyard into a custom-built summer sanctuary.
If you’re looking to enjoy your backyard even in the hottest months, here are some expert tips to help you create a summer-proof outdoor living space.
Start with Shade: Your Backyard’s Best Defense
When it comes to beating the heat, shade is everything. Built-in covered lanais—available in many of our home designs—offer an ideal base for outdoor living. But for extra protection, consider:
Pergolas to extend the cool zone beyond the lanai
Outdoor curtains or roll-down shades to block late afternoon sun
Ceiling fans to keep air moving on even the stillest days
Design tip: Go light! Pale outdoor fabrics reflect sunlight and help reduce radiant heat.
Outdoor Kitchens Built for Summer Living
A summer-ready outdoor kitchen isn’t just about grilling—it’s about making it easy and comfortable to cook and gather outdoors. Look for:
Built-in grills under covered areas to keep the chef shaded
Prep stations with stone countertops that resist heat and wear
Mini-fridges and ice storage for quick access to chilled drinks
Pro move: Place your outdoor kitchen near the pool or lanai so guests can mingle comfortably between bites and splashes.
Dive In with Viera Pools & Outdoor Living
Want to take your outdoor living to the next level? Our dedicated in-house pool company, Viera Pools & Outdoor Living, specializes in custom pool and outdoor designs tailored to your home and lifestyle. Whether you dream of a luxurious lap pool, a splash-ready family space, or a sleek spa for summer evenings, our team brings your vision to life—right in your own backyard.
Because we own and operate our own pool company, the design process is seamless and integrated from the start. That means no third-party delays, no design guesswork—just one team working together to make sure your backyard is a cool, comfortable extension of your home.
Design Breezy Lanais and Courtyards
Our Florida-inspired floorplans make use of indoor-outdoor transitions, creating breezy lanais and courtyards that offer a break from the sun without stepping indoors. French doors, wide sliders, and even zero-corner sliders open to create seamless airflow between your living space and the outdoors.
Want to take it a step further? Consider:
Misting systems for ultra-hot days
Tile surfaces that stay cooler underfoot
Green walls or vertical planters to cool the surrounding air naturally
Landscaping That Loves the Heat
Not all greenery thrives in Florida’s intense summer sun, but smart landscaping can make your backyard feel cooler and more lush. Focus on:
Heat-tolerant plants like bougainvillea, hibiscus, lantana, and blue daze
Strategic tree planting for natural shade over patios or play areas
Mulch or rock beds to retain moisture and cut down on soil temps
Add raised planters or decorative containers to keep things looking fresh and tidy—and avoid scorching your toes on hot concrete.
Materials That Make a Difference
Everything from your paver choice to your outdoor furniture plays a role in keeping your space cooler. At Viera Builders, we recommend:
UV-resistant outdoor fabrics to prevent fading and heat absorption
Impact resistant windows provide another layer of heat protection
Stay Cool, Stay Connected
Florida summers don’t have to chase you indoors. With the right design strategies—and a team that handles everything from your lanai to your custom pool—you can enjoy every square foot of your backyard, even on the hottest days.
Want to explore floorplans that offer breezy outdoor spaces, flexible lanais, private courtyards and built-in summer comfort?
View Our Communities: https://www.vierabuilders.com/communities/
Cooler. Smarter. Built for Florida.
At Viera Builders, your home—and your backyard—are built for the life you want to live, season after season.