Outdoor entertaining
Summer is a distant memory and spring seems far away, but we’re daydreaming about outdoor entertaining as we’re working on outside spaces for our clients. Did you know that this is the perfect time to plan for new outdoor furniture and accents? Whether you have a large backyard or a petite patio, there are lots of ways to enjoy company at home during the summer months!
Our guide to outdoor entertaining
Dining
One of the best parts of the warmer seasons is al fresco dining (and cooking). There is something so quintessentially summery about eating dinner from the grill as the long twilight sets in. A classic teak dining table and chairs with bright cushions for relaxed meals is perfect in any outdoor space. We recommend sturdy dinnerware – melamine is a great option – and fun linen napkins (we’re smitten with the India Hicks collection from Pomegranate!) to set a laid-back, casual mood. Beverage tubs or coolers for soft drinks, wine, and beer make it easy for guests to help themselves and feel at home.
Seating
Speaking of laid-back and casual, deep seating and sectionals provide easy comfort for guests. Think sinkable cushions, throw pillows, and curved backs for a cozy vibe. We often look to higher end modular pieces for our clients so that we can tailor seating configurations to their space and needs. Another thing to keep in mind is versatility; ottomans and garden stools that double as coffee tables and side tables are both space saving and portable. Consider how you want to use your space and then layer in seating to fit, and you’ll want to spend more time outdoors with friends than in!
Nighttime
Once the sun sets, some of the best memories are made. What do you need to make your evening entertaining equally fabulous? First, lighting. Nothing brings down the mood faster than tripping and falling in the dark, but floodlights are harsh. The solution? Sconces and pendants offer soft but ample light. Important tip: when choosing fixtures, be sure that they are for outdoor use. Serena and Lily’s Summerland Outdoor Bell Pendant feels airy and organic.
If temperatures go down with the sun, having a couple of great cotton throws on hand is a good idea. On the other hand, if your issue is insect bites, mosquito-repellent candles, incense sticks, and torches can keep pests away.
Speaking of making memories, what are some of your favorite activities when you host in the summer? Making s’mores over the fire pit or fire bowl is always a hit, and so easy to do. If you enjoy friendly competition, games like ladders, bocce, and baggo offer a lot of fun and laughs. Do you prefer something less active? Invest in a good bluetooth speaker and fight for playlist bragging rights instead underneath string lights and summer nights.
Header photo: Philadelphia roof deck by Glenna Stone Interior Design; Photo by Rebecca McAlpin
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Glenna Stone Interior Design is an award-winning Philadelphia interior design firm serving Philadelphia, the Main Line, and surrounding cities. Utilizing her background and training in interior design, architecture, and engineering, Glenna specializes in creating interiors for residential and commercial design settings. We invite you to visit our website, view our portfolio, and catch up on the latest interior design concepts on our blog!