When it comes to outdoor entertainment, backyard design can make all the difference. Whether you have a tiny or sprawling backyard, there are many clever ways to set up your outdoor space for year-round fun.
Here are some quick tips for making a great backyard entertainment space at home:
Take the prep work out of backyard games by dedicating a specific part of your space to playing them. This will also give you somewhere for children and pets to play where they won’t interrupt quieter seating areas or outdoor kitchens.
What better way to enjoy your backyard space than around a cozy fire? You can DIY a custom fire pit out of stone, bricks or other materials for perfect ambiance and campfire fun. Surround the fire pit with stylish and comfortable Adirondack chairs to encourage guests to stay awhile.
Skip the crowds and price tags of a public movie theater and create a personal viewing area in your own backyard. Using a folding screen, white sheet or a blank wall, you can project your favorite movies for you and your guests to enjoy. Make sure to include plenty of throw blankets and outdoor cushions in your movie seating area.
Twinkling lights are essential to every outdoor oasis, and are available in various styles, lengths and price points. If you don’t have anywhere to hang them, you can create twinkling lanterns with glass jars.
You don’t need to spend a fortune to have a great place to cook a meal outdoors. Even if your patio is too small for a full outdoor kitchen, you can enjoy a nice outdoor meal with creativity.
Start with the best outdoor grill (ideally equipped with side burners) and find a table or cart for extra prep space. Save space and money by repurposing outdoor furniture like an unused potting bench for a chic buffet setup instantly.
The key to making the best use of an enormous backyard is to create sections. For example, there may be areas where you can grill, enjoy active play, or simply sit in the shade. Create a spot for quiet conversation or solo contemplation slightly removed from the larger, entertainment-focused areas.
These are just a few backyard entertainment ideas you can try year-round. No matter the size or shape of your backyard, the right planning and setup will ensure a memorable outdoor party.
Kimberly Kelly decided to get her real estate license when she moved to South Orange with her family and fell in love with the classic, period homes of the area. Having worked in the city for many years for LexisNexis, Kim understands the appeal of an easy commute to NYC. That’s why she specializes in towns along the Mid-Town Direct train line, offering welcoming communities, good schools, and space to grow.
Very active in her children’s school PTA, Kim knows firsthand how important a school system is to parents looking to make the move to the ‘burbs. She volunteers with fairs, fundraising, and other activities that bolster support for education. Kim also believes involvement in the greater community enriches us all and has sat on various boards & associations throughout the years.
Kim Kelly has lived many places throughout her life, from Pennsylvania to Oregon, but has found New Jersey to be the ideal place to raise her family and put down roots. She loves nothing more than helping others discover their special place as well. Kim’s extensive knowledge of the area, combined with her sense of community, offers clients a personalized guide to finding the right house - and town - to call home.
