If you have the imagination, there is a lot you can do with your backyard, no matter what the size. Of course, bigger is better, but either way, you should make maximum use of the space you have, so that you can entertain friends and family in a comfortable and attractive environment.
1. Create a well-thought-out plan
When it comes to creating the ultimate outdoor entertainment area, a lot of planning needs to go into it. What will the area be mainly used for? Will there be just one purpose or could it be used for others? Once you have nailed down what the area will be used for then you can work out how you are going to design the space, including what furniture you will have, and what kind of décor you want to have to express the atmosphere you want to portray.
2. Consider the layout of your proposed area
You might design or at least have a vision of how your outdoor area will look, but the question is, is it viable. A table or chair may look nice in a certain area but it may not be conveniently located for everyday use. It may be in the way of another area or conflict with door or cupboard openings etc. Create a preliminary design of your desired area then physically walk through and see if it flows well. Also, take into account maximum occupancy i.e. how does the area flow if there are a lot of people there, compared to just a handful. Working out this will help create a more relaxed atmosphere instead of people walking into each other or ill-placed objects. You don’t want to be nursing a sore foot while trying to enjoy the Sir Rupert Clarke Stakes in 2022.
3. Consider the weather
This should be a major aspect when designing and planning your outdoor area. There are many things to take into account when it comes to weather. One major one is where your outdoor area is located. Is it prone to a lot of wind? Does it rain or snow a lot where you live or is it prone to a lot of sun? Is it well covered or wide open? Most of the major design decisions should first revolve around questions like these. And think about the wooden materials being used in your outdoor area. Do you have a wooden door? Or maybe wooden flooring? That is something that gets affected by the weather since wood reacts to certain temperatures. Maybe it’s time to change your door or flooring from wood to a composite material like trex select boards i.e. if you haven’t taken into the effect the elements will have on your outdoor area, then you may be setting yourself up for failure. That sounds a bit dramatic, but you want to get this aspect right so all your outdoor events are as successful as possible.
4. Décor
A very important aspect of a well-designed outdoor area is the décor. Maybe you will design it to be on a mainly grassy area with paths throughout or maybe you want to pave or tile the area completely. If your outdoor area is going to be prone to the elements then you want your furniture to be as weather-proof as possible so you want to research what works best for the area and what designs will fit in with your vision. You also want everything to tie together and work fluidly. For example, you don’t want to have a green grass area with bright red chairs. Well, unless that’s what you are going for. Little ornaments placed around your garden can also give your area a bit more personality. The type of lighting you choose also plays a big part in how your outdoor area comes across. Some people have tiki torches, especially in the summer or for beached-themed events. Tea lights are popular for more low-key, quieter events.
5. Trees, flowers, and other plants
Depending on what look you are going for, plants should be a big consideration for any outdoor area. Trees planted in a certain area can provide some cover as well as privacy. Flowers always liven up the place so plant some in your selected areas but make sure they are suitable for the climate where you live. Ferns are an exotic plant that can be put in pots and you can also buy artificial pot plants that you can dot around your outdoor area without needing to water them.
Other things to consider
If you have the space for it, you might want to consider having an outdoor kitchen implemented into your main design. Why go in and out of the house to check up on food or serve, when you can create a nice well-ventilated area for your outdoor grill and perhaps even bar area, which is becoming more and more popular these days.
Installing a water fountain in your garden is also a nice way to create a relaxing atmosphere for your guests, and even yourself as you sit outside and contemplate the night’s events after everyone has gone home. There are many different types of water fountains and come in a range of sizes and designs.
Another popular outdoors inclusion is a fireplace or firepit. Especially in the winter, there is nothing better than sitting around a roaring fire with your friends and family.
