Preparing for Spring & Summer Outdoor Entertaining in Australia

Start With the Space You Already Have

Before buying anything new, check the condition and layout of your outdoor area. Clean furniture, inspect fixings, clear pathways and measure the usable space around doors, steps and cooking areas.

Create Comfortable Seating and Dining Zones

Arrange seating around how people will actually use the area. Leave enough circulation room around dining tables and lounges, and avoid placing furniture where it obstructs access to the house or BBQ.

Browse current Outdoor Furniture for dining, lounge and compact-space options.

Plan Shade for Daytime Entertaining

Shade can make an outdoor area more usable during warmer weather. Umbrellas and other shade products should be selected for the site and installed according to the manufacturer's requirements, particularly where wind exposure is a consideration.

Prepare the BBQ Area

Clean the cooking appliance and check that the intended position meets the manufacturer's clearance, ventilation and fuel requirements. If you are replacing or upgrading the BBQ, browse BBQs & Outdoor Cooking and confirm the exact model requirements before planning its location.

Lighting and Evening Use

Good lighting improves circulation and food preparation after sunset. Position lighting so steps, paths and cooking areas are visible without creating excessive glare around seating.

Keep the Layout Practical

A successful entertaining area does not need every possible outdoor feature. Prioritise comfortable seating, safe cooking, appropriate shade and enough open space for people to move easily.