Elevate your outdoor living: How to create an entertaining oasis in Wellington

By creating an outdoor entertainment area, you can transform your backyard into a haven for relaxation and social gatherings, while adding significant value to your home.

And to help you achieve just that, the experts at Zones Landscaping Wellington have brought together their checklist and suggestions to help you on your way. Let’s delve into the process of bringing this dream to life.

Benefits of having an outdoor entertainment area in Wellington

Add value to your home

Investing in an outdoor entertainment area can significantly increase the value of your property even as you and your family enjoy the new space. Potential buyers are often drawn to homes with well-designed outdoor areas, especially in a city like Wellington where opportunities for outdoor living are cherished.

Expand your living space

With an outdoor entertainment area, you effectively expand your living space beyond the confines of your home. Whether it's a cosy outdoor seating area, a spacious deck, or an outdoor kitchen, you create a versatile environment for relaxation, dining, and socialising.

Planning and design checklist

Having a landscaping planning checklist ensures every aspect of your outdoor project is carefully considered and organised, leading to a well-thought-out design and as few surprises as possible along the way!

• ‍Determine your needs: Start by identifying how you intend to use the outdoor space. A serene retreat for quiet evenings or a lively hub for entertaining guests? Understanding your priorities will guide the design process.‍
• Plan the layout: Consider the layout of your outdoor area, taking into account such factors as sunlight exposure, privacy, and accessibility. Aim for a seamless flow between indoor and outdoor spaces to enhance the overall ambience.
• ‍Outdoor design considerations: Incorporate elements of Wellington's natural beauty, such as native plants, natural materials, and sustainable features to enhance the aesthetic appeal. Make sure to build in protection against the prevailing wind.‍
• Determine the amount of deck space you need: Whether you opt for a spacious deck or a compact patio, ensure there's enough room to do what you want to do, comfortably. Factor in furniture arrangements, circulation space, and any special visual features you plan to include.‍
• Choose an outdoor theme: Define a cohesive theme for your outdoor entertainment area that reflects your personal style. Whether it's a contemporary oasis, a rustic retreat, or a tropical paradise, let the theme guide your design choices.‍
• Budget planning: Set a realistic budget for your outdoor project, considering both the initial construction costs and long-term maintenance expenses. Prioritise features that align with your budget while maximising the functionality and aesthetics of the space.‍
• Safety and practicality: Ensure your outdoor area is safe and practical for all users, especially if you have children or pets. Incorporate features such as sturdy railings, non-slip surfaces, and proper outdoor lighting to enhance safety and usability.

Different ways to elevate your outdoor area

You’ve ticked off the planning checklist but you still want to give your outdoor space that extra something. From shade and shelter to fiery flair, there are many ways to elevate your outdoor entertainment area.

Provide shade and shelter

Install pergolas, umbrellas, or retractable awnings to provide shade and shelter from the elements, allowing you to enjoy your outdoor space year-round.

Install a deck

Invest in high quality decking materials that can withstand Wellington's variable climate, creating a durable and visually appealing surface for outdoor activities.

Incorporate an outdoor kitchen

Want to bring your love of cooking outdoors? Your outdoor space could include anything from an outdoor BBQ area to a fully-equipped kitchen with sink, refrigerator, and ample counter space for food preparation. And don’t forget the outdoor dining set!

Install a spa pool

Indulge in luxurious relaxation with a spa pool or hot tub, ideal for unwinding after a long day.

Include an outdoor fireplace

Create a cosy atmosphere and extend the outdoor season with a fireplace or fire pit, ideal for gathering around on cool evenings.

Light your space

Illuminate your outdoor area with strategically placed lighting fixtures, accentuating key features and enhancing the overall atmosphere.

Install a sound system

Set the mood with a quality sound system, delivering crisp audio for entertaining or quiet relaxing with your favourite music.

Ready to discuss your outdoor area goals with an expert?

Creating your dream outdoor oasis in Wellington is an exciting endeavour. Whether you're looking to revamp your backyard entertainment area or starting from scratch, get in touch with our team of outdoor living specialists today.