When the summer sun shines, all we’d like to do is soak in the warm weather – in the local park, or on a sandy beach with family and friends. But, with a pinch of creativity and a few tried-and-tested tips from us, you can design the perfect outdoor space to enjoy the rest of summer from the comfort of your own home.
Whether you’re planning a BBQ, a chic evening dinner party, or a friendly get-together with loved ones, it's important to optimise the space you have available and the natural elements surrounding you. And, with the right arrangements to shield you from the heat (or potential rain), your outdoor space can be a haven all year round.
But how do you get started? Below, you’ll find some inspiration for your outdoor living project as well as practical design ideas for your house.
How to create an outdoor living space that's perfect for summer entertaining
If you want an outdoor living space to impress guests or for your family to enjoy when the temperature rises above 20°C, then you've come to the right place. By transforming your garden with a patio and the right outdoor furniture, you could easily double the size of your space for entertaining outdoor activities – it's a case of making your garden space work harder for you.
You should always keep in mind your garden's unique position and surroundings to ensure natural and artificial elements complement each other. Here are six outdoor space ideas to enjoy the warm weather from the comfort of your own home (or garden).
1. Choose the right plants to create a relaxing environment
Plants can elevate your outdoor living space, making it a peaceful place to relax, unwind, and shrug off the stresses of the day. But don't underestimate the importance of what plant species you choose. We'd recommend choosing plants that are quick and easy to maintain: shrubs, ornamental grass, and hydrangeas.
Some species, such as lavender and rosemary, have been used for hundreds of years to create a warm, relaxing atmosphere and reduce anxiety and stress.
Placing living, green walls or trees around the perimeter of your property can also help to increase the privacy of your area, helping you feel more relaxed and comfortable in your outdoor living space.
Just remember to leave most overhead space open so you can have a clear view of the wide, blue sky; after all, that's the main reason you're designing your outdoor area in the first place – to soak in the beauty of nature.
Remember to let the natural elements shine
If you're planning to spend more time outside, you'll want to enjoy more of whatever nature has to offer – perhaps with the exception of rain.
It's essential, then, that you consider the unique position of your home and the climate that surrounds it when creating the perfect outdoor living space. Remember to ask questions like:
Is your garden north or south facing? Where will the sun be at lunchtime? Is there adequate shade?
It's important to make sure there's enough shade to protect guests from sun during the hottest part of the day, so think carefully about seating and areas of natural shade – if shade is limited, add a canopy.
Other natural elements, including water features, can add a touch of zen to your garden. In fact, studies show that the mere sound of water promotes relaxation and lower blood pressure!
Use artificial and natural lighting to create an inviting atmosphere
Needless to say, you should rely on natural light as much as possible. However, your space should also be functional during evenings and darker seasons.
Place your lights strategically, without overwhelming the eyes. Focus on illuminating the cooking, dining, and bar areas to keep your parties going once the sun sets.
Other options include hanging lanterns from trees, fences, and shrubs to create a magical atmosphere; or use fairy lights and LEDs to conveniently light up steps or pathways. Who said mood lighting can't be functional?
Design the perfect dining area for summer entertaining
Designing a dining space that suits your unique needs is essential to fully enjoy your outdoor living area. Make sure your table is large enough, the seating is comfortable, and a cover is readily available in case of rain.
An outdoor fire pit is the perfect addition for after dark entertaining, helping guests relax, while sharing warmth and a soft, calming light into your garden.
Install an outdoor kitchen and bar to keep the good times flowing
Your kitchen is the heart of the home where many unforgettable moments take place: dinners, parties, group cooking sessions, and more. It's only natural that you'd want to extend this special space to your outdoor living area.
Designing and creating outdoor spaces like an experienced landscape architect is simple – you just have to make sure each outdoor area is connected to the inside of your home.
The outdoor dining area, for instance, should always be in close proximity to the kitchen. A great way of integrating both spaces is with large, bifold or French doors, creating an effortlessly connected open plan living space.
Alternatively, you might want to consider an outdoor kitchen to cook delicious meals under the sky and near your designated outdoor dining area. A built-in grill for your BBQs, a spacious countertop to prep a large number of meals, and storage for your kitchenware are great options.
It's also the perfect space to incorporate an elegant home bar, where you can prepare drinks and tasty cocktails. Here, an innovative drinking water system like Zip Water's HydroTap would be perfect – enjoy filtered, pure-tasting water during midday heat, and mix delicious cocktails with sparkling water after dark.
By placing our tap in your covered outdoor kitchen, you can create your own oasis of peace with an outdoor space that offers comfort, relaxation, and unlimited refreshments.
And don't forget the entertainment!
Think fun board games, karaoke songs, and hilarious stories. A mini cinema or projector is another great idea to add variety to your summer nights.
On the other hand, hammocks are the staple of all lazy afternoons, and setting up for a game of boules or building an artificial putting green could take your parties to the next level – the options really are endless.
While the good times roll, it's important to stay hydrated. And Zip helps you stay hydrated in style, with our flagship HydroTap – the world's most advanced drinking water system. After all, every drink – even chilled and sparkling water on a summer afternoon – should be a pleasure.
Discover our range of products and get in touch to learn more about flexible installation for HydroTap.
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