In a time when homeowners are willing to invest more in their outdoor living spaces, one of their biggest reasons for doing so is to entertain. In a recent report from Fixr.com, 80% of home construction industry experts polled noted gathering with family and friends as the main purpose of outdoor living spaces, followed by relaxation at 61%.
While there’s no set template as to what makes a backyard great for entertaining, there are some shared design elements that create this style of space in Northeast Ohio. The end result is backyards that not only provide summer fun, but spring and fall recreation.
To help paint the picture (and get ideas rolling for your own landscape), check out these examples of great backyards for entertaining.
Pairing Dinner with Dessert
Outdoor kitchens are making their mark in the landscape world, with 61% of industry experts recognizing this feature as the most popular addition to outdoor living spaces. While boasting a spacious grilling area, this backyard also includes a fire pit area where guests can navigate to after they eat for a post-dinner s’mores treat. The combination of outdoor furniture and seating walls provides ample room for guests, while the heat from the fire pit keeps guests warm on crisp autumn nights.
Source: Unilock
Places for Everyone to Lounge (Pets Included!)
On sunnier days, the shade from a pergola can be a welcomed addition. And on those partly sunny days with a breeze, basking in the openness can be ideal. Backyards that provide both styles of seating options offer comfortable accommodations in either case. The below example — one from our landscape design portfolio — boasts both seating types with the added benefit of a dog run where guests’ furry friends can stretch out.
Source: Green Impressions
Give Guests the Option to Cool Off or Warm Up
When it comes to backyard recreation, inground pools and spas are two of the most popular options. Installing both amenities in your Northeast Ohio landscape gives you the best of both worlds — pool parties in the summertime and relaxing soaks in cooler months. While these two amenities can exist independent of each other, combining them in one design conserves backyard space and minimizes heating and maintenance costs.
Source: Latham Pools
Tune Into the Big Game While Outdoors
There’s nothing like being in the stands of a baseball stadium or a football arena, but being able to watch the game at home while outside is second best. Great backyards for entertaining often include an outdoor TV surrounded by ample seating so guests can gather around to see how it all shakes out while still enjoying the sun and breeze. Aside from providing a place to mount the TV, the fireplace offers added comfort to guests as they kick back.
Source: Green Impressions
Great Backyards for Entertaining Start With the Right Design
No matter how you want to design your outdoor space for entertaining, Green Impressions has the expertise to bring your vision to life. With knowledge of the latest design and installation techniques and years of experience under our belt, we’ve been able to combine entertaining spaces — from seating areas and dining areas to pools and fire features — to create perfect backyards for homeowners across Northeast Ohio.
Interested in connecting with us about your backyard plans? Request a consultation.
