The Practical Guide To Outdoor Entertaining

Summer’s just around the corner, and it’s the perfect season to enjoy life’s moments under the sun. Whether yours is a LYSAGHT LIVING® patio, pergola, verandah or gazebo, here’s how to transform your space into the ultimate entertainer’s haven.

1. STRUCTURE

If you’re serious about entertaining, LYSAGHT LIVING® has the perfect home addition to facilitate your thirst for great gatherings. Patios are traditionally the norm for entertaining. These structures extend from the back of the house, have a roof and feature decking or paving. They’re great for entertaining because the space flows directly from the rear of the home and there’s the opportunity to go large and kit out the space with a dining area and kitchen.

But if you’re a more laid-back entertainer, perhaps a verandah is a better fit? This long and narrow structure connects to the back or side of your home and could be a great place to enjoy a quiet cup of tea with a friend. Regardless of what you choose, your LYSAGHT LIVING® build will be comfortable, stylish and strong – incorporating COLORBOND® steel elements.

2. SUBSTANCE

While you’re thinking about what structure to choose, it also makes sense to get other practical considerations out of the way. Serious entertainers know the importance of a good layout! Try sketching out your planned build, including set areas for dining and kitchen facilities. Don’t worry if it’s basic – just having your dream space represented visually will help your consultation with a local LYSAGHT LIVING® dealer. From these plans, they will recommend customisations to an existing structure design in order to accommodate any accessories or other special requirements.

3. STYLE

Now it’s time to add your pizzazz! Just like interior design, outdoor entertaining trends come and go, but there are several that have shown staying power. The popularity of cooking shows on television have turned us into passionate foodies, and the popularity of outdoor kitchens are a testament to that. Specialist outdoor cooking equipment including charcoal barbecues (great for smoking meat) are becoming popular, so too is the outdoor pizza oven – which is great for larger gatherings, becoming almost a communal cooking experience.

We’re also becoming green thumbs. Many Aussie homes now feature vertical herb gardens, or herb garden beds integrated into the design of their outdoor structure. For an Italian-themed gathering, imagine your guests savouring a fresh wood-fired pizza straight from the oven, then garnishing with home-grown fresh basil picked themselves? Bellissimo!

To get a quote on your next patio, pergola or verandah, click here.