Creating the Perfect Outdoor Entertaining Area

3 mins read

Dreaming of warm summer evenings spent outdoors with family and friends? It might be time to transform your backyard into the ultimate entertaining area!

Whether it’s for casual breakfasts, long lunches or evening dinner parties, this guide will inspire you to create a functional and beautiful outdoor space.

Step 1: Define Your Outdoor Needs

Before redesigning your backyard, consider how you plan to use the space:

  • Do you host large gatherings?
  • Do you need a safe area for kids and pets?
  • Are you looking for quiet nooks for relaxation?

Clean up the space by removing debris, old paving, or dead vegetation. This gives you a blank canvas to begin planning zones and pathways.

Step 2: Must-Have Features for Your Backyard

Make a list of essentials and luxuries for your space:

  • Patio or enclosed alfresco
  • Lawn for kids/pets
  • Vegetable garden
  • Fire pit
  • Pool or water feature
  • Privacy screening
  • Play equipment

Step 3: Benefits of Creating Outdoor Zones

Zoning helps:

  • Define space functions (dining, play, garden)
  • Simplify planning and furniture selection
  • Improve safety and organisation

For Kids: Dedicated play areas with equipment like swings, sandpits, or cubby houses.

For Pets: Grass areas, toxic-plant-free zones, and secure fencing.

For Privacy: Use hedges, privacy screens, brick walls, or blinds to create secluded areas.

Step 4: Zoning with Products

  • Retaining Wall Blocks: Use Midland Brick’s limestone blocks for elevated garden beds and defined spaces.
  • Breeze Blocks: Stylish, patterned barriers that offer privacy and airflow.
  • Masonry Blocks: Lay on edge for an industrial breeze-block effect.
  • Natural Elements: Use layered planting to hide eyesores and enhance aesthetics.
  • Feature Elements: Use water features, pools and Cultured Stone to enhance relaxation zones.

Step 5: Connecting Zones

Unify your outdoor zones with pathways and consistent materials:

  • Solid Paths: Use pavers like Geo, Granite, or Stonewash for a cohesive look.
  • Stepping Stones: Fill gaps with mulch or gravel for budget-friendly pathways.

Step 6: Styling Your Space

Finish your space with:

  • Hammocks and lounge furniture
  • Pots and outdoor wall décor
  • Mix of materials, sizes, and textures

Safety: Ensure furniture is stable and pet/kid-friendly. BBQs should be secure.

Furniture: Opt for durable, UV-resistant fabrics. Consider built-in seating or movable pieces.

Weather Readiness: Use breeze or masonry blocks for wind protection. Add blinds or wall features to shield from the elements.

Views & Sunlight: Position furniture with views in mind. Use movable umbrellas for flexible shade.

Step 7: Backyard Lighting

Extend your backyard enjoyment into the evening:

  • Affordable: Fairy lights, tiki torches, warm string lights
  • Permanent: LED path lights, spotlights on walls or plants

Ready to Build Your Dream Entertaining Area?

Visit our showroom or contact the Midland Brick team for expert advice and quality products.

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