Before beginning a design project, it’s essential to understand your needs and wants for the space. Ask yourself the following questions:

• What kind of events would I like to host?
  • Do you host suit-and-tie dinners or relaxed backyard barbeques?
• How many guests do I plan to invite?
  • Consider the minimum and maximum number of guests you intend to host. From there, a designer tailors a space flexible enough for various events.
• What is my desired ambiance?
  • Would you like the space to feel grand and spacious or intimate and cozy?

Looking back on past parties and your dream events will aid in executing a design that covers your needs.

Now that you have a clear understanding of the space’s uses, you can start creating a space that achieves your functional goals without sacrificing style. Creating a space that is versatile enough to serve your entertaining and everyday needs is not only possible, but it's also essential for a well-designed outdoor space. With these tips, you can be sure that your outdoor space will be both beautiful and practical.

Avoid using too many anchored fixtures. Mounted planters or heavy seating creates obstacles to work around when hosting. Using lightweight tables or plant containers lets you quickly adapt your space to any size event.

Creating zones for distinct uses (e.g., dining, lounging, cooking, entertainment) is a great way to give your outdoor entertaining spaces personality. By segmenting activities, you get more use out of your yard while avoiding overcrowding. Including functional zones also avoids fatigue caused by spending too much time in one area. It also gives you room to style your yard unconstrained by space.

Not all yards have space to segment activities; you can achieve the same effect with circulation. Focus on free-flow circulation with minimal barriers so guests can easily navigate throughout your yard. This is where the moveable furniture comes in. An open layout encourages guests to utilize your yard’s individual areas while still feeling connected.

The right material helps express your style while setting the ambiance of a space. For example, walkways with crushed stone can feel casual, while paved sidewalks feel more refined. Additionally, you should choose materials that suit the use of your yard and its environment. In Louisiana, it helps to select durable materials to withstand extreme heat and weather.

6. Watch the Weather

Considering weather and climate is essential when creating an outdoor hosting space. Louisiana is known for its hot and humid summers. However, there’s no need to bring the party inside. Consider incorporating covered decks, tents, or pergolas to create a shady refuge. Additionally, you can use patio fans to cool out and prevent insects from joining the party.

7. Light It Up

Your party doesn’t have to end when the sun goes down. Including lights in your design allows you to host events at any time of day. When selecting lighting, it’s key that you understand the three basic types of lighting.

Ambient Lighting: Ambient lights like mounted lamps or string lights illuminate an entire space.

Task Lighting: Task lights are meant to increase the visibility of task areas. These lights are seen in directional lights illuminating outdoor kitchens.

Accent Lighting: These lights are used stylistically to draw attention to certain design elements or focal points. An example can be a spotlight shining up on tree or fountain.

Get a Free Custom Landscape Design Consultation

Want to make the most of your outdoor space?

Greenscape Design has helped hundreds of clients create the outdoor space of their dreams for over a decade. We work one-on-one with clients to execute their custom landscape design vision. Send us a message or call (225) 333-9680 for a free consultation from an expert designer. We can't wait to hear from you!