Expert Ideas for Reviving a Tired Outdoor Entertaining Area

Outdoor entertaining areas don't always get the attention they deserve. To make matters worse, they are exposed to the weather. Over time, they can become tired looking at best and an eyesore at worst. What do Outdoor Living Design Ideas pages will tell you what you need to know.

Start from the Ground Up

As you browse the photos in our Outdoor Living gallery, you'll notice that every stunning outdoor entertaining area has one thing in common. The materials vary from timber to tiles or natural stone, but the floor or paving is always stylish and beautiful. One material will be enough for a smaller area, but if you're covering a larger area, consider a mixture of materials. Doing this can break up a possibly monotonous paved area and create zones for different activities.



While you're planning your new flooring or paving, also consider having some built-in seating installed. It will come in handy in a number of ways and will make your entertaining area look more inviting.



Even if you do nothing else, installing decking or paving will revive your outdoor entertaining area. If you want to create an outdoor area you'll love to spend time in even when guests aren't visiting, you'll need to consider some other ideas.

Elements of an Outdoor Entertaining Area

An outdoor entertaining area can be anything you wish it to be. A basic entertaining area should have flooring and seating for guests. On the other end of the scale, it might include a large barbecue area, an outdoor kitchen, a swimming pool and a spa. Consider the elements you want for you family and your guests and work within your budget to revive your outdoor entertaining area. Do you:

• Want a designated barbecue area?
• Want a roof over your outdoor area?
• Need more privacy?
• Want to incorporate your garden into your design?

If your budget is limited, you can still accomplish all of these things. You can install a barbecue area in any convenient location. If you need shelter from the rain or sun, look into modern umbrellas, shade sails and awnings. Modern awnings can cover a wide area without requiring extra support and may be all you need to enjoy your entertaining area in any weather. If you want more privacy, look into modern privacy screens. If you want your garden to be a feature of your outdoor entertaining area, install garden lighting.

The finishing touch will be your outdoor furniture. You'll find dozens of ideas on our Outdoor Furniture photo pages. Find stylish and comfortable furniture for you and your guests and you'll be ready to entertain in style.