Now that Spring is here and the temperature is on the rise, if you love outdoor entertaining, are you ready to turn your backyard dreams into reality? For those without a pool there are plenty of other ideas to make the most of outdoor living.

The Outdoor Kitchen

This year, there will be a trend towards the use of colour in outdoor kitchens. Think blues, greens and even pinks, where homeowners will get the chance to add their own personality to their outdoor space. But if that’s a bit out of your comfort zone, then why not paint an accent wall behind your outdoor kitchen or try a bright mosaic on a brick wall or fence?

You could purchase a readymade outdoor kitchen to install, try making your own or if you are on a budget, you might find some preloved accessories on Marketplace or Gumtree.

The Outdoor Bar

If you are game to try an outdoor kitchen, then why not add an outdoor bar as well? You are opening many possibilities for family entertainment, and it would look great alongside the kitchen. Have a look at this one made by the team at Better Homes & Gardens a few years ago:

https://www.bhg.com.au/outdoor-bar-table

Add Edible Greenery

Create privacy in your backyard by planting hedge greenery like multiple rows of the Backyard Bliss Lilly Pilly shrub. It can be grown in containers or directly in the soil. Backyard Bliss is a hardy plant that is highly adaptable to various conditions, making it perfect for planting almost anywhere.

If you experience a problem with mosquitos, then you could also try planting these insect-repelling herbs in pot collections together with dwarf fruit trees to decorate your spaces, add balance and height. Try lavender, marigolds, lemongrass, basil, mint and thyme. Except for the marigolds, why not have plants that can be added to your outdoor cooking as well. Position these in areas where guests will be often such as by a seating area or a doorway.

Use Comfy Furniture

When you create your oasis it’s important to feel like you can sit and enjoy the outside as much as possible. Being comfortable to sit and lounge at ease for long periods with family and friends requires comfortable outdoor furniture. There are so many to choose from and there are a variety of factors to think about. Plan before shopping around and be aware of the size requirements, flexibility of use, budget, sun and rain protection, durability and comfort.

Don’t Forget Dressing Up

When it comes time to invite others over to enjoy your backyard oasis it’s nice to dress up the area with colour. You can do this across any season through cushions, tableware, and throws. Using lighting can also set the mood in your backyard with lights incorporated in decking or party lights strung above in between trees and verandahs. All these ideas create a party atmosphere to compliment your backyard oasis. 

Good luck with whatever you try. It’s okay to start slow and small so that you create something you will enjoy for years to come.

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