Now that Summer has arrived it’s time for you and your family to get the most out of your outdoor living area where you can gather and spend time with each other. Read on to see our list of key outdoor features you need to make the most of your outdoor space as a family.
Add an Outdoor Kitchen for Meals Outside
Food is a key component when it comes to family gatherings. In many indoor kitchens, you’re often left to prepare and cook the meals while your friends and family gather in the living or dining room. By creating an outdoor kitchen on or next to your patio you will be able to join in the festivities with your family or guests. This is also a great way to include your family to assist you with the cooking as preparing a meal becomes more of outdoor activity rather than a chore. There is a wide range of built-in outdoor kitchens available on the market. When looking for your outdoor kitchen station you need to look for a unit that comes with enough storage and shelving. Add a mini outdoor fridge to your station to save you the hassle of running in and out of the house getting drinks.
Fire Pit
A fire pit creates an idyllic place for your family to gather around after dinner. Not only will this bring people together, but It also creates a great looking feature for your outdoor area. When the evening meal is finished and the sun goes down you can cuddle around the fire pit and toast marshmallows. The beauty of a fire pit is that it can be used all year round. Even in Summer, after a warm day once the sun goes down the temperature can quickly change. There are many styles of fire pits available, you will be able to find the right one for you and your budget. If you have a smaller outdoor space but still want to stay toasty warm when outdoors a portable fire pit would be a good outdoor solution.
Outdoor Furniture
When selecting your outdoor furniture it’s important to select pieces that are in proportion to your outdoor living space. Startpurchasing the amount of seating that will accommodate the number of family members you have. You can always add temporary furniture for when you’re entertaining larger amounts of guests. When choosing your furniture it’s important to purchase items that can withstand the outdoor elements. You will need to consider if this furniture is going to be left under the strong UV rays. Sun exposure can cause materials to fade and lose their color and vibrancy over time. Choose the materials that suit your climate best. To make your furniture last you may need to waterproof or rustproof your pieces. If you purchase furniture that can get hot when left in the sun, purchase outdoor cushions for your chairs. Make sure these cushions are designed for outside use to prevent their colour from fading.
Make Sure There Is Enough Shade
It’s important to have enough shade for the family to gather under on those boiling hot summer days, this way you can utilise the most of your outdoor space all year round. There is a range of shade options available regardless of your budget. You build a roof for your patio which can create an extension of your house. If you’re not looking for a major renovation then there are other options such as canopies, sailcloths, or larger umbrellas that can easily be moved and manipulated depending on where you would like to sit. To incorporate more than one shaded area in your outdoor living space, strategically plant a larger tree that will create some natural shade.
If you have decided to add a roof over your patio, we would recommend adding a ceiling fan. On days where even shade can’t keep you cool, this feature will come in handy. This will ensure you and your family remain comfortable on hot days so you can still enjoy outdoor meals together.
