Perfect weather calls for time spent outdoors with family and friends, soaking up the blue sky and shining sun. There is no better place to enjoy beautiful weather than the comfort of your own home, so why not create an outdoor entertainment sanctuary at your doorstep.
Whether you live in an apartment with a balcony or in a home with a generous backyard, well-chosen outdoor furniture can transform your alfresco space into the perfect place to relax and unwind in great company.
Outdoor Setting
An outdoor setting will be the foundation of your space. Choosing the perfect table and chairs will firstly depend on how much room you have to work with. It will be important to take measurements of the available area to ensure the setting is the right size. Avoid overfilling the space with furniture, otherwise, it will be tricky to move around and squeeze everyone in when entertaining.
Extendable outdoor dining tables are a stylish, space-saving hack if you are short on square footage. You won’t feel cramped when you are home alone, however, you can quickly fold out the table to accommodate extra numbers when family and friends visit.
It will also be important to choose furniture that can withstand the weather. Investing in pieces that can survive the elements will mean you do not have to keep replacing rusted,
damaged or faded furniture. Our tip is to read up reviews on outdoor furniture on sites like InspirelivingHQ. For example, here they list the best outdoor loveseats – a post filled with inspiration!
Teak is a durable natural material that not only lasts but will add woody warmth to your patio. The high natural oil content of teak acts as a barrier to many of nature’s tests, such as rot, insects or warping and cracking.
Tables and chairs made of synthetic materials, such as resin or plastic, are a budget-friendly and easy option for those who want to style on a shoestring. They are lightweight, easy to move around and require less maintenance compared to furniture made of natural products.
Accessories
Once you have a great outdoor setting, add some functional and fabulous accessories to make it cozy.
Comfortable outdoor couch cushions will ensure your guests can really settle in. They are a cheap and simple way to elevate a space by adding pops of color and texture. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different shapes and sizes. Mixing the cushions up with contrasting colors and complementary textures can also be a striking touch.
When the weather starts to cool in the evening, keep a few outdoor throws or blankets on hand for your guests to drape over their shoulders or their legs. They are not only great for entertaining but will also be perfect for a lazy morning on your patio with a coffee and a
newspaper.
To ensure your outdoors accessories last, you may wish to store them inside when they aren’t in use. You could keep them in a wicker basket by the door, so they are ready to grab when you and your guests head outside.
Heaters
When the end of summer approaches and it starts to get chillier, it does not mean you have to retreat inside and sacrifice embracing your outdoor areas.
Firing up an outdoor heater will extend the time you can spend outside. Depending on the size of your area and how often you use it, there are both portable and fixed outdoor heating options.
Freestanding portable gas heaters are a popular choice, as they are easy and efficient to operate. Many can be started with the push of a button. Fueled by gas bottles, they are also cost-effective to run and you will just need to replace the bottle when it runs low. If you live in a colder place, you may need more than one heater to keep things nice and toasty.
If you have a larger outdoor area, an open fire pit can make an ambient showpiece in your garden. Your guests can gather around the fire to catch up and share stories whilst keeping warm and toasty. There are portable options available, making the fire pit easy to move around and store away when not in use. All you need to add is a packet of marshmallows to toast and you will the feeling of a campfire in your yard.
