ow to Decorate Your Backyard for Summer Gatherings
Summer is a great time to gather with family and friends, and warmer weather makes outdoor events more popular. Therefore, you want to have your outside space ready to go. Here are some tips for renovating your backyard.
1. Create Hangout Areas
When planning your outdoor event, create spaces for guests to sit and socialize. Break up your yard into specific zones, such as a lounge or dining area. Consider adding a hammock to create a more relaxing atmosphere.
When shopping for a hammock, keep these things in mind:
- Where will it go?
- What are you using as anchors?
- How will you provide shade?
- What is the weight limit?
- Where will you store it during the offseason?
Also, add comfortable seating to make the space more inviting.
2. Define the Area With a Weather-Resistant Rug
Rugs help define the area and add style. Plus, they provide comfort for your feet and cushion your furniture. Consider getting a synthetic carpet for its easy maintenance and affordability.
Here are some other outdoor rug materials you can choose from:
- Polypropylene
- Polyester
- Nylon
3. Pile on Pillows
Pillows can make your space more comfortable. Using vibrant colors and fun patterns can add a sense of style and pull your decor together. To make your backyard more cohesive, pick a color scheme. You could use greens for a tropical vibe or whites for a modern look.
Here are some other pillow designs for your outdoor space to consider incorporating:
- Botanical
- Tropical
- Geometric
- Stripped
4. Install a Fire Pit
Roasting marshmallows and telling ghost stories is a fun summer activity. A fireplace is also perfect for those chiller nights and can tie your seating area together.
When purchasing or building a fire pit, consider its shape. A round one can create a feeling of intimacy, and a square one can add a sense of elegance.
Another feature to consider is the fuel type. Here are the different options for your fireplace to choose from:
- Gas
- Electric
- Gel
- Ethanol
- Wood
5. Incorporate Natural Textures
Add some decor that uses natural elements, such as bamboo. This can make the space feel more tropical. Consider using rattan chairs in your seating area, as well — it comes from the fiber of plants similar to palm trees and is woven together.
Here are some of the other benefits of rattan:
- It’s stylish
- It’s durable
- It’s lightweight
- It’s eco-friendly
- It’s versatile
Make sure to store natural rattan inside when you’re not using it. Too much sun or rain exposure can cause bleaching or mold. Consider a synthetic alternative for outdoor use.
6. Add More Greenery
Adding plants can create a more natural and organic feel. Brightly colored flowers can be perfect accent pieces, so consider adding potted and hanging varieties to fill empty spaces. The foliage can also act as a barrier between you and your neighbors, creating a more private setting.
Here are some summer plants to consider adding to your garden:
- Sweet alyssum
- Lantana
- Canna
- Portulaca
- Salvia
7. Hang Lights
Lighting illuminates your deck or patio with a gentle glow, creating an inviting ambiance. Choosing the right accent lights can set the mood for entertaining, so it’s important not to skip this step. Consider adding bistro lights to enhance your outside area. If you’re planning on extending the party into the night, your lighting will come in handy.
Here are some other outdoor lighting options to consider:
- Torches
- Candles
- String lights
- Lanterns
- Outdoor table lamps
8. Use a Bar Cart as a Grilling Station
Barbecues are a classic summer event. You can use a bar cart to keep your condiments and cooking utensils all in one place. This way, you have easy access to them when grilling. When you're done cooking, you can just roll the cart inside.
Food is one of the essential parts of a barbecue. Here are some classic foods to add to your list:
- Steaks
- Hamburgers
- Ribs
- Coleslaw
- Potato salad
9. Purchase a High-Quality Dining Table
Having a good dining table is essential for any dinner party. You want your guests to feel comfortable, and the table should be the right size to accommodate everyone. Wood is a good choice because it is low-maintenance and weather-resistant.
You can also add decor to your tables, such as cushions or runners, to make them more stylish. Here are some other decorations to consider adding to your dining table:
- Candles
- Fruit displays
- Rocks
- Horseshoes
- Bottled vases
10. Spring for Covered Seating
With all outdoor events, there is the chance of rain. To be prepared, make sure you have covered seating. This will make your guests feel more comfortable and keep the party from moving inside. Covered seating is also beneficial in creating shade during those hotter days.
Consider using an umbrella or overhang to shield from rain and shine. Here are some other types of coverings to protect your furniture:
- Awnings
- Pergolas
- Gazebos
- Thatched roof
- Patio cover
- Canopy
How to Decorate Your Backyard for Summer
Summer is the perfect time to reconnect with family and friends. Having an outside party is probably at the top of your list. Follow these tips to get ready for your next summer gathering.
Author
Evelyn Long is a freelance writer and the editor-in-chief of Renovated. She has covered home improvement advice for a variety of web publishers, including the National Association of REALTORS® and Restoration Master.
