Decorating your Outdoor Entertainment Area

Glossy magazines and Pinterest can make interior design seem like decorating and furnishing your home is easy, but in reality it can be a tough job. Unfortunately, it’s not as simple as throwing an armchair here and some pillows there, then call it a day. It’s important to have a practical design and a proper budget plan that thinks about form, function and quality. This will prevent you from splurging on flashy and fashionable items that may not last the test of time.

When it comes to outdoor furniture, it’s crucial to invest in high quality and well-made items that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Consider the following tips.

Think Ahead

What kind of outdoor area does your home have and what will you be using it for? Is it a patio or a deck? Is it already protected from the elements or is it completely exposed? Will you be using the area mostly in summer or also in winter? What kind of aesthetic are you going for? Having a good idea of the intended purpose and look of your outdoor area will help you when you’re ready to start making purchasing decisions.

Location, location, location

Whether your alfresco area is covered or completely open, it is likely your outdoor furniture will be subject to the weather conditions. Do you live somewhere particularly windy or rainy? If so, you’ll want to invest in pieces that are heavy (so they won’t be easily blown away) and/or waterproof (as certain materials may rust or corrode quickly over time).

Create a Colour Scheme

Whether you want a natural look, or you’re after something modern, bright and bold, your outdoor furniture and decorations should all work together to form a cohesive design.

Think about Quality

Look for outdoor furniture that is sturdy, long-lasting and made from quality materials. You should also always ask the manufacturer or supplier for advice on how to care for and maintain your purchases. After all, furnishing and decorating any area of your home become pricey, so it’s important to always ensure your choices will be worth the expense.

Light it Up

If you’re looking to add a little oomph to your alfresco area, consider mood lighting. It can add a great deal of ambiance on lazy summer evenings and provide a warm and cozy glow on cool winter nights. The great thing about outdoor lighting is that it can be versatile. String lights, for example, are an affordable and attractive option, whilst oil torch lamps can enhance both traditional and modern settings.

Go Green

A little bit of greenery can go a long way. Introduce life and colour into your alfresco area with pot plants, flowers, hanging baskets, container gardens, or any other plant life. Just don’t forget a watering can while you’re at it!

Throw in Shade

There are a range of external factors that can damage your outdoor furniture over time. Even if your home’s outdoor area is partly or completely exposed, it’s a good idea to consider installing a protective structure to ensure that your alfresco area is sheltered from unpredictable weather.

Pergolas, verandas and gables are an appealing and practical way to protect your outdoor furniture and décor from wind, rain, dirt and dust, and sun damage.

Having a furnished and decorated outdoor area is the perfect way to extend and enhance your home, for both entertainment and relaxation purposes.