Creating the Ultimate Outdoor Entertaining Area
Create an outdoor entertaining area you’ll love with our guide on how you can make the most out of your space. Keep reading to find out tips on what to think about when designing, and what the different outdoor blind options are!
Do outdoor living spaces add value to your home?
Having a nicely designed outdoor area can definitely help to boost the value of your home, as this is something the next owner isn't likely going to need to renovate much, or if at all.
An outdoor entertaining area is something very important, particularly in Australian homes. Aussies love to have people over, enjoy a summer BBQ, and spend time outdoors. Investing in a space like this can make a lot of difference!
What to consider when creating your outdoor entertaining area
How you design your outdoor entertaining area is up to your personal preference. However, there are a few things for you to think about while you're planning.
Some questions to ask yourself are:
- How much entertaining space will my family need?
- Will having an outdoor kitchen / BBQ be needed?
- Do I want to create an open, semi-enclosed, or fully enclosed outdoor space?
- What is my budget?
- Do I need outdoor furniture? If so, how much?
Enclosed outdoor area versus a semi enclosed or open area
A fully enclosed outdoor entertaining area is where you can create barriers on each side of the space to keep the weather out. This is often achieved by using outdoor blinds or shutters.
Enclosed outdoor areas are often referred to as outdoor rooms, as they are a cheaper alternative to creating extra space in your home without undergoing costly renovations.
Semi enclosed outdoor areas are where not all sides are closed off. Instead, you might install a blind on the side where the wind or rain is strongest, while keeping the other sides open to the elements.
An open outdoor entertaining area has no blinds or walls to close in the space.
How to decorate a small outdoor patio
When space is restricted, you're offered an inviting opportunity to make the most of the square footage available. It takes a bit of creativity, but combining the right furnishings and window treatments will make all the difference.
Outdoor seating
When it comes to creating a place to relax, adding a small lounge area for yourself and a few guests makes your outdoor area an ideal place to settle in for the evening.
Whether it's a hammock, lounge chair, or even a daybed, make sure there's a comfortable space to sit back and enjoy the outdoors.
Having a tight space doesn't mean sacrificing the joys of alfresco dining. A compact bistro table with seating for two to four people is the perfect solution and can easily be tucked away into a corner as a surface for storage when not in use.
Plants
If you've got limited space, there is no better way to add to your outdoor oasis than with plants! Plants and greenery bring a touch of nature and a calming feel to your area.
Hanging planter boxes are a space efficient and attractive way to add to your retreat without sacrificing valuable space.
A creative way to use plants in your space without taking up too much space is by creating a climbing wall screen! Not only will you have a nice feature area, but you'll also give your space a little bit more privacy.
How to decorate a large patio area
If you have a large patio area you have the luxury of prioritising space depending on your wants, rather than needs. This means your furnishings can be bigger and bolder!
Define your spaces
An important first step before decorating a larger patio, is defining your zones, and deciding what function you'd like your outdoor entertaining area to serve.
Whether it's a space to eat, relax or entertain in, these are some of the things to think about.
If you love entertaining, a large round table could suit your space perfectly. A circular table can open up your patio space and allows for better use of space by taking up less square footage than a rectangular table.
An outdoor kitchen is also perfect for larger patios. Nothing says entertaining quite like bringing cooking into the great outdoors. A simple outdoor kitchen setup can include an outdoor stovetop, a countertop for food preparation, and even a well-stocked fridge to keep your guests happy.
The inclusion of shade and shelter makes for a great way to protect yourself from the weather and adds a sense of privacy to your outdoor retreat. Pergolas, awnings, and shade sails create the perfect protection for your family and friends to enjoy year-round.
Outdoor window covering options
Regardless of the size of the space you're working with, your outdoor entertaining area should have plenty of privacy. This can be achieved through adding privacy screens, or outdoor blinds, awnings, and shutters.
Outdoor shutters
Outdoor shutters are your ticket to an enclosed, comfortable, and stylish outdoor retreat that offers all the privacy required to feel separate from the world around you. Incredibly durable and resistant to damage, our range of outdoor shutters come in three styles; fixed outdoor shutters, hinged outdoor shutters and bi-fold outdoor shutters.
Their ease of operation, renowned insulation properties and customisable looks make our shutters a great candidate for your outdoor retreat.
Alpha M blinds
With heat, UV rays and harsh winds an unwanted threat against the comfort of your outdoor retreat, we've got a solution. Our range of Alpha M outdoor blinds are developed for Australia's climate and wind. The fabric is kept taut, flat, and smooth by an innovative magnet system that even self-corrects from the always irritating fabric blowouts. The privacy of you and your guests doesn't come at the cost of pesky blinds blowing around in the wind.
Windmaster blinds
Another fantastic outdoor blind option is Windmaster blinds. Our Windmaster range is designed using heavy duty rails, locks, and channels to minimise any fabric movement when they're up against the elements. These blinds are made from an eco-fabric square hole material that reduces heat by a massive 94% and helps keep insects at bay to ensure the comfort of guests.
Visit our blog to find out more about Windmaster blinds.
Retractable awnings
Retractable awnings, also known as folding arm awnings, are a fantastic way to have the best of both worlds as they give you the option of having up to 3 metres of additional shade when you want it.
Awnings help circulate airflow, reduce light, and sun exposure, but fold away whenever you'd like. Entirely customisable with a range of fabrics and colours, your outdoor retreat will look and feel like a comfortable oasis year-round.
Find out more about Retractable blinds on our website!
Cafe/Patio blinds
Café patio blinds are available in PVC, sunscreen and canvas materials, making them an incredibly versatile option for your home.
These blinds are a great option for giving your area added sun protection and helping to regulate the temperature.
Zipscreen blinds
Zipscreen blinds are one of the best ways to create an enclosed outdoor entertaining area for your backyard. These blinds give you coverage from roof to ground, and are a great way to block out insects, and weather without compromising on air flow and the view.
For more information on Zipscreen blinds, visit our guide.
Plus, learn more about choosing the best patio blinds in our blog.
To arrange a free measure and quote with a highly-trained consultant in your own home, give us a call on 13 13 15 or fill out this simple online form. We provide this service to a wide range of locations around the metro and select regional areas, 6 days a week between 8am and 6pm.
The majority of our blinds, curtains and awnings are made in Australia and are sold for the lowest price in the market, guaranteed. Just bring in a quote on any competitor's comparable item and we'll beat it by 5%.