Enjoying the Ultimate Backyard this Summer

Enjoying the Ultimate Backyard this Summer

By Mike Gambino

Creating the Ultimate Backyard this Summer

Summer is all about spending time outside and taking advantage of the warm weather with family and friends. For most homeowners, the backyard is a relaxing haven and an extension of the home during the summer months. Outdoor living spaces and outdoor kitchens in particular, are increasing in popularity. Here are a few simple tips and tricks to help you make the most out of your backyard this summer.

Designate an Entertainment Space One of the most important parts of your summer backyard is a personalized entertainment area. Hosting family get-togethers, barbeques, and parties is so much easier if you have an outdoor space for everyone to eat, drink, and hang out. One great idea is a pergola or installing an awning for your guests to sit under when the weather is particularly hot. Make space off your back deck or patio for a large outdoor table and comfortable seating. Take your entertainment space to the next level with a pizza oven, dining table and benches, or even a cart or bar to serve drinks—your guests will thank you!

Light up the Barbecue A barbecue is essential for homeowners who like to entertain guests during the summer, so don’t forget to set up space for the all-important grilling area. Keep your barbeque close enough to the entertainment space that your grill master won’t feel left out from the party, but remember that safety comes first. Remember to clean your barbeque regularly and stock up on gas or charcoal so you don’t run out when you’re trying to cook.

Create a fire pit Nothing says summer like a warm evening spent in front of the fire. Before you build your own fire pit, first check that you’re allowed to have fires in your own backyard (as some areas have ordinances prohibiting outdoor fires). If your backyard has enough room, create a fire pit from stone or bricks and make sure the area is in a safe place clear of brush and trees. If you can’t or don’t want to build your own, home improvement stores sell a wide variety of chimeneas and standalone fire pits that work just as well as the custom handmade kind. Finally, stock up on kindling wood, before you host an at-home bonfire.

Games Backyard parties aren’t complete without traditional outdoor games, so stock up on and store all your gaming equipment at the beginning of the summer. Make sure to include family favorites like croquet, soccer, badminton, and table tennis so everyone can join in the fun. If you’re thinking about hosting an afternoon tea party or other fancy event, croquet and bocce ball are creative alternatives that will put your guests in a competitive mood.

Keep the Kids Cool When the weather is particularly hot, sometimes the only thing you want to do is cool off in the water. If your backyard already has a pool, make sure to clean and prep the water and pool area for use at all times. Smaller backyards will benefit from a slip ‘n slide, inflatable pool, sprinkler system, or water balloons. If all else fails, a spray with the hose will do the job and keep kids entertained for hours!

Decorate Your Outdoor Space Once you’ve made space for all your outdoor furniture, toys, and equipment, the last thing to do is decorate your outdoor space. Bistro string lighting is perfect for summertime parties, or  strands of fairy lights in special trees, dramatic accent lights throughout the garden, or traditional pathway lamps to keep your party going late into the night. An outdoor sound system will take your parties up a notch —if you have a few extra dollars in your budget, they even make powered outdoor rated subwoofer speakers so you can have that club vibe pumping throughout the yard. Finally, choose weather proof seat covers and cushions to keep your seating area looking its very best throughout the season.

The fun stops once the sun goes down. Keep the party going with a Custom High Performance LED Landscape Lighting System Designed and Built to last by Gambino Landscape Lighting.

This landscape lighting blog is published by Mike Gambino of Gambino landscape lighting inc. all rights reserved. Mike is a professional landscape lighting system designer/ builder and has been designing, installing and maintaining landscape lighting systems for more than 27 years. Mike resides in the Los Angeles area with his wife and 2 sons. To visit his website go to www.Gambinolighting.com . To inquire about hiring Mike please click here .

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