Finding Your Perfect Patio for Entertaining

With the arrival of summer, it’s officially the season of the outdoors. But how do we make sure we make the most of the space we have? From balconies to backyards, let’s go over all the ways we can soak up the sun in comfort.

It’s important to keep in mind what you enjoy doing with friends or by yourself. Is it lounging? Having a bite to eat? Playing a game? Think on these questions as I walk through some options and we will find you your perfect match!

1. Lounging

   If your preference is to have a gab with friends or read a book while you’re out back: it’s worth it to invest in something comfortable to sit in.

   Have a small space? Grab one or two nice chairs and place a side table nearby. With more space you can get an outdoor set of furniture, but make sure the fabric is made for it. The sun’s rays make untreated fabrics fade fast. You may need to look into rain covers or bring the cushions inside during inclement weather as well, so make sure you have enough storage to accommodate them before you buy.

   UPGRADE

   Want to take outdoor lounging to the next level? Add an outdoor TV! I did this in my own backyard when a friend gave me an extra TV. I wired my shed for lights and it was simple to add another installation. Now I have a cozy corner to watch my favourite shows.

2. Dining

   If you prefer enjoying a cool breeze as you share a meal with a friend: you should have a table and chairs as part of your outdoor space.

   For a balcony, a small table with two chairs gets the job done. Add a cushion on the seats for extra comfort. The larger the space, the larger the table you can get. When picking one out, keep in mind how many people you expect to host regularly. If the table is too large, there is space you are taking up that could be used for something else. Too small, and you have guests without a place to sit.

   
   UPGRADE

   If you have the space and like to cook outside too, get a grill! If you already have one, think about grill accessories. Do you have a place to put your kebabs before and after they hit the grill? Think about how you can make grilling a more comfortable experience with less back and forth.

3. Games

   If your thoughts drift to bocce, corn hole, and giant Jenga when you picture a summer out back, then it’s time to find fun games for your space.

   On a balcony you are more limited with space and may fear things will fall off the edge. Having a few portable games like four-in-a-row, bananagrams, or a deck of cards might suit your fancy. Having a flat surface on your table and no slats with spaces in between is a priority. With a bigger space, you can head towards bocce, having a shed with sports equipment, or take on a DIY project like making your own giant jenga with sanded to by fours.

   UPGRADE

   Make sure you can see these games on the grass at night! Have lighting so the games can continue long past the sun setting. String lights are cozy where you can put them up, but see what lighting works for the space you have.

Thoughtful design is making choices for your home with your life in mind. Cater to yourself so enjoying what you do is seamless, and you are sure to have a super summer!

Still looking for a home with your dream backyard? Contact me so we can look for your perfect space together.