There’s no better feeling than inviting 10 of your closest mates over in summer for an afternoon of barbecued meats, drinks and laughs – and the good news is that with a few tweaks to your outdoor area, you can entertain on your porch or patio year-round.
Here are five ways to update your entertaining areas so you can have fun-filled gatherings at your place, no matter the season…
1. Invest in quality outdoor furniture
Even if you have a shaded outdoor area, your furniture needs to be hardy – it has to withstand everything from sunlight to wind, rain and even hail.
If you spend a significant amount of time entertaining outdoors, invest in a combination of quality furniture in a cohesive colour palette. Coordinating your décor with the kitchen, bathroom and main living spaces close by will create a seamless indoor-outdoor connection.
2. Install an outdoor kitchen
If you’re serious about entertaining and have the means, it could be time to install an outdoor kitchen. Outdoor kitchens are all the rage, and can include a built-in sink, cooktop, barbecue and bar fridge.
For many Australians, not having a gas cooktop is a deal breaker – and this extends to outdoor kitchens too. By enlisting a plumber to install natural gas to your outdoor area, you can enjoy the benefits of a gas-fuelled barbecue or pizza oven. A natural gas barbecue has many benefits, including not having to race out to refill a gas bottle.
3. Consider natural gas fuelled outdoor heating
Speaking of natural gas… an outdoor fireplace is a game-changer on chilly evenings. You can entertain outside all year with a natural gas outdoor fire pit or wall-mounted heating. Not only are they nice to look at, they’re also clean-burning and smokeless – so no more shifting seats every time the wind changes. Simply put, is there anything fancier than sitting around a warm and glowing fire outdoors.
4. Make sure your table setting is on lock
Clip-on table weights are inexpensive yet effective and help safeguard your gathering against the weather. If you’re pulling out all the stops and have a fancy table setting planned, complete with tablecloth, make sure you keep it firmly in place by using clip-on table weights.
5. Set the scene with mood lighting
As the sun sets over the horizon, create a magical night-time mood with soft lighting. As well as traditional fairy lights, look for lanterns, hurricane lamps and outdoor candles. Or deck out your entertaining area with tea lights in glass votives so they stay lit even if it’s windy. With the right lighting options up your sleeve, you’ll be set to entertain regardless of the weather or season!
Brought to you by Go Natural Gas.
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