When the blue skies and radiant sunshine of summer come calling, the last thing you want is to be stuck indoors. Make the most of the warmer weather by creating an outdoor living space you won’t want to leave. Whether you’re after a place to entertain friends and family or your own relaxing outdoor oasis, we’ve got some suggestions for idyllic outdoor living that will bring the best out of any space.
Add a BBQ area
Nothing quite says summer like the sound of snags sizzling on the barbie! Designating an area for a barbecue is easy and guaranteed to be a surefire hit with any guests. Whether you opt for the convenience of a portable barbecue or incorporate a considered in-built setup, make sure that it’s child-friendly and safely located. Timber, gravel or paved surfaces are ideal – simply choose some stylish outdoor furniture to surround it, and you’re good to go!
Include an outdoor bar
What complements the flavours of a freshly cooked summer feast better than an ice-cold drink? Invest in a drinks cart and roll it out next to the barbecue when entertaining, much to the delight of your friends. Or better yet – build an undercover outdoor bar to keep the drinks flowing year-round! Whether you’re serving alcoholic beverages or not, you’ll thank yourself on those hot days when a cool drink is just a few steps away. Plus, your friends will be finding any excuse they can to pop over!
Opt for comfortable seating
Inside your house, comfort is key – so why should outdoors be any different? Create your own personal oasis with inviting seating designed to withstand the weather. Use seats to set up an eating area surrounding the bar or barbecue, ideally on the deck or under shade. If you’re lucky enough to have a large outdoor space, you can even enclose couches, deck chairs or benches within a pergola or secluded behind a low wall to create zones. This is a great option for those seeking a sense of intimacy and comfort while still enjoying the outdoors.
Shade is key
While pergolas aren’t an option for everybody, there are many attractive and cost-efficient ways to ensure that your family can escape from the sun. Retractable awnings fixed to the wall of the house can be both stylish and convenient. Alternatively, a verandah will add a touch of flair to larger homes, while custom-made gazebos or roof canopies offer a source of shady respite on warmer days.
Choose a central focus
Incorporating an area of central focus into your outdoor living space can do wonders for your home. Green walls are a trendy addition to any outdoor space (or indoor, for that matter), serving as an eye-catching feature that will make your home considerably more inviting. Not only do they give your outdoor space an aesthetic boost, but they’re also incredibly eco-friendly and easy to maintain.
Another option for a central feature is a fire pit. By keeping you warm when the weather cools, they will allow you to enjoy your outdoor space all year round. There are a wide variety of stylish options on the market, and they create a great communal area for friends and family to gather around and roast marshmallows or watch with a cold drink.
These suggestions combine form with functionality, helping you to create a beautiful outdoor space that you’ll want to enjoy every day. For assistance incorporating any of these features into your home, get in touch with the experts at Cunningham Constructions!
