There are very few things in this world that are as precious as spending a long, lazy afternoon in the backyard. Seriously, the pace of life has become relentless these last couple of years. Every opportunity we can get to catch a break and spend some quality time with our friends and family should be cherished.
But, why should we limit ourselves to the same old barbecue parties every weekend? Our backyards are spacious enough to offer far more entertainment options. We only need to use this space to create something truly engaging and awesome. Here a couple of tips that should help along the way.
Draw up a plan
The first step in every backyard renovation project would be to draw the layout and try to incorporate the elements you want to include. Afterthoughts and on-the-go adjustments can cost you a lot of money, so do your best to take into account everything from the number of the people you want to host to the available area. No need to worry even if you are operating in a compact space – there are a couple of ways to make it feel bigger and better use the available space.
Make a corner for kids
Every one of us has a different idea of entertainment. However, we can all sit down, enjoy a good movie, and drink something to keep our spirits high. The kids, on the other hand, need a far more stimulative environment to stay entertained. Fortunately, turning your garden into real kids’ paradise is not that hard. Sandboxes, trampolines, clubhouses, and slides don't take too much space and, in most cases, can be pulled off as a DIY project. Just make sure that the children's area is safe, fenced, and that there aren’t any dangerous plants.
Create a covered seating area
This will be the main hub of your new backyard. Since modern entertainment can’t be imagined without quality multimedia experience, you need to make sure that your equipment is protected from elements. Besides, you don’t want to move your party inside every time the rain clouds show on the horizon. So, what kind of cover you can use? Well, in our honest opinion, a covered deck stands as the most space-economic, easy to build, and keep things close to the power-sources within your house (no need to dig cord trenches throughout the backyard).
Play up the tech
In order to utilize everything that modern entertainment has to offer, you will need a brand new outdoor entertainment system. What does that exactly mean? Well, let us start with a huge anti-glare HD TV that will allow you to watch the latest movies in hi-res. Smart units will allow you easy access to modern streaming platforms without the need for additional equipment or cumbersome HDMI cables. The second thing you should take into consideration is the surround system that will create an immersive cinema-like experience. Some of the modern gaming systems are optional.
Spice up the mood with an outdoor bar
Watching your favorite movie is one thing. Spicing things up with a couple of cold drinks is something completely different. So make sure to keep your company chill by providing them with a constant supply of fresh beverages. And if you want to make the whole thing a real deal, you should build a full-scale outdoor bar that will allow you to show off your barista skills. As long as you use strong, pressure-treated wood and durable materials like aluminum or granite as the top material you won’t need to worry about maintenance during more humid months.
Light up the atmosphere
Although you are going to spend a great deal of time under your newly built deck, entertainment is not all about Netflix. You will want to fire up your grill and throw up a buffet for your friends. In order for all these things to work, your backyard will need to be well-lit. In this case, we recommend that you go with task fixtures with warm-light bulbs. This way, you will be able to highlight all focal points (tables, barbecues, backyard fixtures, etc.) while still keeping the atmosphere moody and pleasant. And warm light looks so much better on pictures.
Add a personal touch
Last but not least, you should do your best to avoid creating a bland looking backyard. If you want to be truly entertained, you need a couple of touches that will unequivocally make the whole area your personal playground. So, what are you really into? Tropical torches and fire pits? Something more whimsical and fairytale-like? Or you are more of a futuristic person and like to keep things sterile and clean cut. Find your mood and a couple of items that will make you feel more at home.
We hope these few tips showed you a couple of ways you can make your backyard more entertainment-friendly. As time goes by we have less and less time to spend with persons we hold dearest. That makes these few afternoons we can get only more precious. Your backyard can easily become a perfect setting for these pleasant moments.
About the author: Mike Johnston is an avid blogging enthusiast and experienced freelance writer with a focus in home improvement, interior design, family life, and sustainable living.
