If you’re a host on the hunt to have the best hangout spot on the block, then you’ll want to start off by making your back porch a place everyone loves to be. Go above and beyond by creating an area that will enhance your lifestyle for seasons to come.
If you aren’t sure where to begin, here are some tips to help your outdoor patio feel just as inviting and functional as your indoor living room.
Get furniture that gives everyone space to lounge comfortably.
Your patio furniture should provide plenty of seating space to accommodate all of your guests. A popular trend right now is sectional patio furniture. Just like the sofa in your living room, sectional patio furniture provides plenty of space to stretch out. A set like this one can also function as an outdoor breakfast nook or dining area.
If you’re looking for furniture that’s low maintenance and can be easily moved with the seasons, consider something that’s lightweight like this five-piece patio set from Target.
Dual-purpose pieces, such as stools that can be a side table and extra seating all in one, can help minimize the space needed and maximize the space for fun. Pro tip: weatherproof your furniture. This can make your porch perfect for all seasons and help your favorite furniture last longer.
Watch your favorite shows under the stars.
For fun evening parties and family get-togethers, turn your porch into an entertainment area. If your porch is covered, add a mounted television for summer movie nights. If an outdoor TV isn’t an option, invest in a collapsible screen and a mini-projector for a “drive-through” viewing experience right in your backyard. Want a night off from Netflix? Use your outdoor screen to play song lyrics for a karaoke night instead.
Work, play and relax under the sun (and shade)!
Popping up an umbrella is a great way to stay cool during hot days. If you’re still working from home, you can soak up some vitamin D while you chip away at emails. Shade from your umbrella will keep you safe from getting too much sun and will also help you see your laptop screen as you get work done.
Outdoor umbrellas come in many styles. From umbrellas that fix into the middle of your table to free-standing umbrellas, like this one on Wayfair, you can make your outdoor living room usable during those sweltering 90-degree days. An umbrella with a pattern or bright color will add a fun accent pop to your outdoor decor.
Add a heat source for the chilly nights.
On the other end of the spectrum, prepare for cool Michigan evenings by adding a heat source to your patio. Heater lamps can be purchased pretty inexpensively from Home Depot and other hardware stores. Solo Stoves are an easy and safe way to add a real bonfire pit to your outdoor living room, so you can toast up s’mores or hobo pies for dessert.
Looking to make a bigger upgrade? Add a gas fire pit or better yet, a fire table. Fire tables are a new trend that’s catching on. These tables add warmth and ambience to your space and also provide a place for gathering and dining. Fire tables can range in price and size. Make sure to measure your space before you purchase one.
Gone are the days where patios were just spaces to place a furniture set and maybe a grill. These days, people are including televisions, entire kitchens (including the kitchen sink), dining areas fit for a restaurant and more. You can customize your outdoor living room any way you want, making it a perfect addition to your home.
