Preparing Your Outdoor Area for Summer Gatherings
As the seasons pass and the sun starts shining, our thoughts naturally turn to outdoor activities, dining al fresco and relaxing in our gardens.
And there’s no better way to take advantage of glorious weather than hosting loved ones in a beautifully designed garden.
Whether you have a little patio or a big backyard, turning your outside space into a haven for summertime entertainment is the perfect way to wind and relax.
If this sounds like the thing for you, you may be thinking about how to get your garden ready. Whether that’s planning the layout and style of your garden or eyeing up a new barbecue, this article has you covered.
Arranging The Space
The first thing you should be doing is planning. The available space and your intended usage of it should be the first thing taken into account. Take measurements of the area and make a rough paper plan first.
This stage will let you start considering different zones and play with possible configurations for optimal enjoyment, ensuring you have dedicated spaces for cooking, relaxing and enough space for everyone.
Deciding where to place what in your garden will be aided by knowing its dimensions and layout. Think about incorporating any existing features, such paths, sheds, or trees, into your design. The areas that get the most light and shade throughout the day should be carefully considered as these would be the natural places for seating.
If you have kids, you may want to dedicate a small area for them. Naturally kids can get a bit loud when they play so you’ll want to think about making this space somewhere close enough to keep an eye on them but far enough so the noise level doesn’t make the adult socialising difficult.
This area could be a dedicated room in the house, somewhere that’s already safe and sectioned off, perhaps with wall panelling to keep the noise levels to a minimum.
Get The Seating Right
As your guests will spend most of their time seated, you’ll want to prioritise comfort. Look for cushioned chairs, loungers, and benches with weather-resistant materials. Where possible opt for ergonomic designs that support the body and facilitate relaxed and enjoyable conversations.
Remember, your seating layout should be versatile. Combine larger seating areas with smaller, intimate spots. Stackable or foldable chairs can be easily rearranged to accommodate different group sizes and for areas that aren’t the main one.
The next element when choosing garden furniture is it’s aesthetic. You’ll want to match your chosen decor or theme of the party. Whether you prefer modern minimalism, rustic charm, or classic elegance, choose pieces that complement your garden’s ambiance and the overall tone of the gathering.
Don’t be afraid to mix and match different styles for a personalised touch or in different designated areas.
As this furniture will live outdoors it must be able to withstand the elements. Select materials like teak, aluminium, or synthetic wicker that are durable and easy to maintain. Weatherproof cushions and UV-resistant fabrics will keep your seating looking fresh all season long.
Keeping The Party Going
As the gathering goes on and day moves towards night, you’ll want to ensure there is enough lighting in the garden to keep the party going. String lights, lanterns, and solar-powered lamps are perfect choices for this as they’ll create a magical atmosphere as the sun sets.
But what exactly are you going to be lighting? That’s where the different types of garden lights come into play, each with a specific purpose.
If you’re thinking of lighting pathways or flower beds, solar lights will be a great choice, but if you’re wanting to light the parameter or fence fairy lights across the top make a better choice.
Really consider what’s key to light and ensure that the type of light matches what you’re lighting and the reason you want to lighten it.
Remember: When creating layers of light, split them between form and function, give your scene depth and intrigue by blending various types of lighting but for key areas ensure they are properly lighted and avoid chasing ambience.
Feeding The Masses
Regardless of whether you’re feeding a few or five hundred, no garden gathering is complete without food. Food, cooking it and eating it will be a massive consideration, if not the most important one, you’ll have to make when getting ready for hosting others.
Are you going to be using the kitchen (maybe it’s indoor, maybe it’s an outdoor one), perhaps you’ll be doing a barbecue or maybe, just maybe you’ll get takeaway.
Irrespective on how you choose to feed your friends and family, one thing is certain – you’re going to need to serve them and how you do this, depends on the dedicated space you planned out for this in the first place.
If you’re using an outdoor table and doing it in the garden it’ll need to be large enough for all the food, sturdy and away from where the kids will be playing. If you’re doing it inside it should be easily accessible and allow people to come and go easily.
In Summary
A well designed garden might be the perfect setting for summertime get togethers with loved ones. By carefully planning your garden layout, selecting the right furniture, and installing efficient lighting, you can create a warm and functional outdoor space.
Moreover, designating a special area to serve food and keep the kids entertained will ensure that the gathering goes smoothly.
With the help of these tips and suggestions you can create a stunning paradise in your garden that is ideal for entertaining.
