Outdoor entertaining
Upgrade your garden dining area to create a space to gather, eat and catch up in comfort and style. Great summer memories start here…
Set the scene for gatherings with furniture and lighting
◆ FOCUS ON DINING The action will always happen around the table when there’s a barbecue in progress, so it’s worth investing in the right one for your needs. Look at flexible designs, especially if you have a small space. Consider an extending table, or a rise-up design that converts from a coffee table for a seating/dining area. Look out for tables that have a grill, firepit or drinks cooler built in.
◆ SIT COMFORTABLY You want to stay chatting long into the evening, so choose sturdy, supportive chairs with arms. Metal tubing and wooden slats can be particularly hard to sit on, so add or supplement seat cushions. Benches are great for squeezing in kids but, again, will need softening.
◆ EXTEND YOUR OPTIONS If you have the space, a breakout area will keep the conversations flowing. A pair of sunloungers, a bistro set, or even a circle of floor cushions will work – the latter being great for kids who don’t want to stay at the table. Add low, lightweight stools for drinks and plates, and you can accommodate more people, as long as some are happy to dine picnic style.
◆ SET THE MOOD Use ambient light from a battery-powered floor lamp to create the right atmosphere, and add candles, LED lanterns or festoon lights for a romantic twinkle. Do keep a couple of strong LED portable lamps on hand to light the barbecue area, and make sure paths are well lit. Music can be streamed outdoors with Bluetooth speakers on spikes poked into flowerbeds, around £30 each.
◆ CREATE AN EXPERIENCE Set the scene with a visual feast of colourful bunting and outdoor lights and, instead of a functional parasol, try something decorative, such as designs from East London Parasol Company, Raj Tent Club or Amara. Make an impact with statement planting, such as a living wall or troughs packed with one kind of plant. Why not set up your own bar? Wickes has a flatpack one for £400, or try a ready-made Tiki bar from John Lewis & Partners, Wayfair or Asda. Games like quoits, boules and giant tumble towers are fun ice-breakers, especially after a drink or two.