Summers mean creating memories with friends and family through outdoor entertaining. And now is the perfect time to redesign your space so you can enjoy it all summer long. Whether you just moved into a new space or are looking for ways to refresh your longtime home, we’ve got 4 great tips to transform your outdoor entertainment space.
Tip 1: Ambience Lighting
First, consider the natural lighting. Will the setting sun be in your eyes? Squinting is never a good way to set the vibe for your gathering. Instead, add a sun shade, canopy, or patio umbrella to protect your guests. Or will you be in the dark by sunset? Amazing outdoor lighting options abound, from fun string lights to a breathtaking outdoor chandelier hung from the tree branch for an extra special touch. Candlelight or a fire in a fire pit or chimenea enhance the ambiance you’ve created when the stars come out.
Tip 2: Deal with Uninvited Guests
One of the hazards of outdoor entertaining is the bugs. Surround your space with plants that naturally repel mosquitoes such as lemongrass, citronella, begonias, and marigolds. You can also add a moving water feature that can create a mist and sound that dissipates the pests.
Tip 3: Decor
Outdoor living spaces are the perfect places to get creative. You can keep it consistent with the indoor decor or you can go in a totally different direction, being bold or taking risks you might not inside the home. It’s also a great space to combine different elements like mixing wood with stone or using mismatched vintage metal chairs with a wood table. Add a pop of color with a bright tablecloth or pillows or keep it natural with centerpieces designed with foliage from your yard.
Tip 4: Table Placement
Be mindful of the size of your space and allow it to inspire the layout and positioning of the furniture, including tables. Large areas may allow a traditional outdoor dining table with a separate space for relaxing and visiting away from the table. Use oversized, comfy chairs with a low table as a great casual dining option that combines eating and lounging for tighter outdoor footprints. Or consider benches instead of chairs as a way to optimize space.
No matter how you design your space, position the table to have easy access to the kitchen for all that delicious food. Come to Appliance Gallery for everything you need to equip your kitchen and make sure entertaining is easy all summer long.
