The temperature is rising across Kentucky and that means it’s time for summer entertaining with backyard barbecues and gatherings. This summer, think about going beyond a few lawn chairs and a table to create an area of your home that’s almost an extension of your living room. You can transform your yard from a place to just hang out, into an orchestrated space for relaxation. These upgrades are so good that your guests might not want to leave.
Make it comfortable
Uncomfortable patio furniture is out and outdoor furniture that’s more like what you’d find in your living room is in. This year, real estate agents are talking a lot about backyard upgrade trends, and one of them is opting for weather-resistant couches and oversized chairs that bring comfort to the great outdoors. A neutral setup in gray or tan can be livened up with brightly striped pillows or a coordinating shade umbrella for your table. When planning your outdoor furniture layout, think about creating dedicated areas for eating, relaxing, and maybe even lounging if your backyard has a pool, or if your guests might want to sunbathe. Updating backyard furniture is a surefire way to present your home in the best light to potential buyers too if you are thinking about selling your house for cash soon.
Get cozy
For an upgrade that’s another of the hottest backyard trends this summer, you can add a firepit that will give your family and your guests a chance to roast marshmallows and keep everyone warm if the temperature dips at night. Fire pits can be created using stone pavers or bricks to create a small structure that can be a permanent fixture in your backyard — an outdoor feature that potential buyers will love. Budget-friendly additions also include moveable above-ground kits that you can take wherever the party goes. If you are researching DIY options be sure to keep your fire pit away from furniture and other flammable items in your backyard, with an emergency plan to put out fires whenever you are using it.
Add lighting
The quickest way to turn your backyard into an inviting space for nighttime entertaining is to add lighting. You don’t need to spend a fortune installing overhead lights to make this upgrade though, there are creative ways to add string lights to your backyard that can create a whimsical party environment. Some easy lighting solutions are adding string lights to a tree, or a privacy fence or hedge. If you don’t have an obvious place to hang lights already, a few potted plants with wooden poles can be added to your yard to light an outdoor dining area. Use potted plants and beams to hang lanterns for another festive look. To make lighting part of your home decor all summer, be sure to opt for solutions that are weather-resistant to withstand storms.
A backyard is important real estate on your property and making upgrades can help you get the most out of this space. You can also help potential buyers envision how they can use your backyard for summer entertaining.
5 Additional Items to Add to Your Summertime Backyard Upgrade
- Outdoor Lounge Area: Create a comfortable and inviting outdoor lounge area where guests can relax and socialize. Consider adding a patio or deck with comfortable seating options such as outdoor sofas, chairs, and tables. Incorporate elements like cushions, throws, and outdoor rugs for added comfort and style.
- Outdoor Kitchen and Barbecue Station: Set up an outdoor kitchen and barbecue station to enhance the dining experience. Install a grill, countertop space for food preparation, and a sink for easy cleanup. Include a mini-fridge or beverage cooler to keep drinks cold and easily accessible. This setup will allow guests to enjoy delicious meals and beverages while enjoying the outdoor ambiance.
- Fun and Games: Introduce various fun and entertaining activities in your backyard to keep guests engaged. Set up a game area with options like a cornhole, ladder toss, horseshoes, or a bocce ball court. You can also consider installing a basketball hoop, a ping pong table, or even a mini-golf putting green. These games will provide hours of enjoyment for your guests.
- Outdoor Movie Theater: Create a cozy outdoor movie theater experience by setting up a projector and screen. Hang a large white sheet or invest in a portable outdoor screen. Set up seating options like outdoor lounge chairs or bean bags, and provide blankets for extra comfort during cooler evenings. Pop some popcorn and enjoy a movie night under the stars with your guests.
- Fire Pit and Outdoor Lighting: Install a fire pit as a centerpiece in your backyard to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. It will serve as a gathering spot where guests can relax and enjoy conversations around a crackling fire. Enhance the ambiance with outdoor lighting such as string lights, lanterns, or pathway lights to illuminate the space and create a magical atmosphere during evening gatherings.
Remember, customization is key, so feel free to add personal touches and adapt these suggestions based on the available space and preferences of your guests. Enjoy creating a memorable and entertaining backyard experience for your guests this summer!
Why Backyard Entertainment is Best in the Summertime
Backyards truly come alive in the summertime, offering a host of reasons why they are better during this season. First and foremost, the pleasant weather and longer daylight hours create the perfect setting for outdoor activities. Traditional summertime activities like barbecues, picnics, and pool parties are all enhanced when enjoyed in the comfort of one’s backyard. The warmth of the sun, the gentle breeze, and the lush greenery provide an inviting backdrop for these gatherings, making them even more enjoyable.
In addition to the everyday activities, summertime holidays further accentuate the appeal of backyards. Independence Day, for example, is a quintessential summer holiday celebrated with fireworks, family and friends, and outdoor festivities. Backyards become the ideal venue for hosting festive cookouts, setting up patriotic decorations, and watching dazzling fireworks displays from the comfort of your own space. The Fourth of July embodies the spirit of summertime and showcases the joy of backyard entertainment.
Another notable holiday that contributes to the backyard’s allure is Labor Day. As the unofficial end of summer, it presents an opportunity to savor the last moments of the season. Backyards become gathering places for cookouts, games, and relaxation, allowing friends and family to come together and bid farewell to summer in a memorable way. Whether it’s playing lawn games, having a refreshing swim, or simply lounging in the sun, backyards offer the perfect setting for a memorable Labor Day celebration.
In summary, backyards are better in the summertime due to the favorable weather, longer daylight hours, and the opportunity to engage in a variety of traditional summertime activities. From barbecues to pool parties, the backyard serves as a versatile space for socializing, entertaining, and enjoying the great outdoors. Moreover, the summer holidays like Independence Day and Labor Day provide specific occasions for backyard fun, allowing people to celebrate in the comfort and convenience of their own outdoor sanctuary. So, make the most of the summertime and create unforgettable memories in your backyard!
In Conclusion
In conclusion, the summertime brings out the best in backyards, offering an array of reasons why they are the ultimate destination for entertainment and enjoyment. The combination of pleasant weather, longer daylight hours, and the inherent versatility of backyard spaces make them ideal for traditional summertime activities such as barbecues, picnics, and pool parties. Additionally, summer holidays like Independence Day and Labor Day further elevate the appeal of backyards, providing specific occasions to celebrate and create lasting memories with family and friends.
The backyard becomes a hub of joy and relaxation during the summer months, as people gather to bask in the warmth of the sun, revel in the beauty of nature, and engage in a multitude of outdoor pursuits. It is a space where laughter fills the air, the aroma of grilled food wafts through, and the sound of splashing water brings refreshment. Whether it’s enjoying a leisurely afternoon picnic, hosting festive holiday gatherings, or simply unwinding in the tranquility of one’s own outdoor oasis, backyards truly come alive in the summertime.
So, embrace the season and make the most of your backyard’s potential. Transform it into a haven of summertime fun and create cherished memories that will be treasured for years to come. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, entertainment, or simply a place to connect with loved ones, the backyard awaits, ready to provide endless possibilities for summertime enjoyment.