Somewhere to cook: an outdoor BBQ kitchen
For a stylish alternative to the traditional BBQ, consider a chimnea with built-in griddle or a pizza oven; involving your guests in creating their own pizza is a great way to break the ice. An outdoor BBQ kitchen with a freestanding BBQ or pizza oven and plenty of surface space for food prep gives you the ultimate alfresco cooking set-up.
Somewhere to dine: an outdoor table and chairs
For lunch, dinner and after-work drinks, it’s crucial to offer guests a comfortable seat. A woven rope or rattan chair set for two is perfect for a catch-up with friends, and a wooden garden table or dining set with bench seating offers versatile seating when gathering for food. In both cases, don't forget to provide the comfort of shade with a wide parasol.
Somewhere to socialise: an outdoor kitchen bar
Indulge in a holiday at home atmosphere by setting up your own outdoor bar. Any bar height outdoor dining set with stools makes the perfect spot for cocktail hour, and when mixing drinks, the addition of an outdoor cabinet works well - or a drinks trolley. For a relaxed feel, opt for an outdoor lounge set styled with accessories from inside for indoor style - a vase with pampas or a bunch of cut flowers. Choosing a 3-piece lounge set or corner lounge set offers versatile arrangements for chilled-out socialising.
Somewhere to retreat: a hanging chair
As much as we love a party, it’s nice to include a little haven for peaceful contemplation away from the group. A hanging egg chair is a magical place to spend some time away from the crowd, offering either a reassuring swinging action or a cosy cocoon. Alternatively, you could position a single or double-hanging chair close to the rest of your entertainment area to extend your seating options. A parasol blanket and parasol work just as well as a cosy boho retreat teamed with lots of cushions from inside.
Something to add atmosphere: outdoor furniture with a fire pit
As the nights draw in and the temperature drops, an outdoor fire pit is exactly what you need to bring a bit of warmth and atmosphere to the occasion. Garden sets with a fire pit built-in, such as this elegant corner lounge set, make the ultimate centrepiece for your entertaining space. On the other hand, freestanding iron fire pits and braziers give you the flexibility to position them wherever you feel they’re needed most.
Somewhere to retreat: a hanging chair
Equip your entertaining space with plenty of outdoor lighting so you’re not left sitting in the dark when the sun disappears. Garden festoon lighting could be just what you need to add ambience for that special mellow party mood if you’re keen for guests to linger. Find plenty of beautiful options in our collection of outdoor wall lights for a more permanent solution to light up the garden and the pathways.