In a place like New Orleans, outdoor living spaces serve as leisurely spaces to gather with loved ones, whether you’re poolside during the humid and sweltering summers or by the firepit during mild winters. With an outdoor living space with a perfected design, you can transform your backyard into a versatile entertainment hub ideal for hosting. That’s where Blue Lizard Services comes in!
Our team specializes in designing and constructing luxurious outdoor environments that align with the personal style, needs, and aesthetics of our clients. Today, we’re diving into a guide packed with essential steps and tips for designing the perfect outdoor entertainment area.
Let’s get into it!
Understanding Your Space
Before jumping head-first into the designing process, it’s most important to thoroughly analyze your backyard’s layout and size to properly assess your needs. Taking some time to set eyes around your outdoor space and visualize how it will be used will help you in planning.
Think about the existing elements, like your trees, shrubs, and pathways. More often than not, these elements can be integrated into your design and deliver functionality and appeal at the same time.
While you’re planning your outdoor entertainment area, keep in mind all of the activities that you want your space to accommodate. Are you thinking about a cozy spot for dining? Maybe a lounge area for relaxing, even a game zone for outdoor activities. Regardless, having a thorough understanding of these desires will allow you to guide your design choices and informed decision-making.
Key Elements of an Outdoor Entertainment Area
Seating Arrangements
Comfortable seating is a must-have for any outdoor entertainment area worth relaxing in. Consider a nice blend of seating options that foster an environment that promotes both conversation and relaxation. Sofas and lounge chairs create an inviting atmosphere while your dining tables will create a functional space for meals.
Be sure to note that opting for weather-resistant materials will be in your best interest. Look at teak, aluminum, or even synthetic wicker to ensure some real durability. As far as aesthetics go, some beautiful cushions and throws help to add a pop of color and an extra layer of comfort to your outdoor entertainment area.
Outdoor Kitchen or Bar
A fantastic addition to any outdoor entertainment area–or any entertainment area for that matter, is an outdoor kitchen or bar. The convenience of cooking and serving food outdoors with the luxury of not having to run back and forth to your indoor kitchen is one that is unmatched. Bar areas with seating, on the other hand, encourage loads of social interaction and allow guests to gather while you’re cooking.
It’s truly a seamless integration of the best of the culinary world and entertainment.
Remember, when planning for your outdoor kitchen think about implementing features like built-in grills, plenty of countertops for food prep, and a mini-fridge for beverages.
Lighting
When it comes to effective lighting, you can’t go wrong with using it to set the mood for your outdoor entertainment area. String lights and lanterns help to generate a warm and inviting atmosphere. For more utility, think about task lighting, like under-counter lights for your outdoor kitchen or brilliant lighting fixtures over your dining area for functionality when the sun goes down.
If you’re looking for a more sustainable approach, solar-powered lights or energy-efficient LED fixtures just maybe your best friend. Through this eco-friendly style of design, you’re not only widening your green thumb, but you’re ensuring your retreat is just as enjoyable when the sun sets.
Entertainment Features
What is the perfect outdoor entertainment space without any entertainment? Now is the time to think about implementing entertainment elements to build upon your oasis. Consider outdoor speakers for music, maybe even a projector for movie nights, or even a television for sports.
For the times that you’re just looking for a cozy snuggle-up, a firepit or outdoor fireplace is the perfect fix. It delivers the perfect blend of ambient lighting and warmth, making for the perfect storytelling and relaxation gathering spot.
Choosing Durable Materials
You cannot understate the role your selection in the right materials for your outdoor entertainment area. These materials are absolutely essential for guaranteeing your space’s durability and longevity, so it should come as no surprise that weather-resistant materials are a must–especially for your outdoor kitchen and seating areas. Stainless steel appliances will definitely do the trick as they are resistant to rust and corrosion.
For your countertops, we suggest a beautiful granite or concrete. They’re both super durable options that were built to withstand heat and spills. If you’re thinking about your flooring options, natural stone, composite decking, or porcelain tiles can get you on the right track. These are materials that are able to handle the foot traffic and varying weather conditions of your New Orleans outdoor entertainment area.
If that seems like a lot, don’t worry. The Blue Lizard Services team will work with you closely to help you select the best materials to align with your vision and functional needs.
Designing for Functionality
When you’re planning the perfect outdoor entertainment area, plan for functionality. Think about how you can optimize your backyard space for a multitude of activities. Anything from dining to lounging, to swimming, to shooting some pool can be zoned accordingly. It’ll even make it easier for your guests to maneuver through the space more fluidly.
Being intentional about your outdoor entertainment area layout will help you create a more seamless flow that highlights the functionality of the space.
Incorporating Landscaping and Greenery
Your landscaping plays a huge role in the aesthetic and appeal of your outdoor entertainment area. If you haven’t integrated your plants, shrubs, and flowers, you are shorting yourself of a beautiful backyard space lush with greenery.
Incorporating greenery and the natural elements of your outdoor space will give you and your guests a chance to ground yourselves all while enjoying the ambience of the gathering.
Are you ready to transform your backyard into your perfect outdoor entertainment area? Get in touch with the Blue Lizard Services team! Click here to schedule a consultation. We’ll work closely with you to design and create the ultimate space for the most unforgettable gatherings.
Your dream oasis awaits!