The much-anticipated summer holidays are fast approaching, and the hot days and warm nights will see many South Africans relaxing outdoors. What better way to prepare to spend quality time making memories with family and friends than by creating a beautiful outdoor area for some alfresco dining and entertaining?
For those thinking that money doesn’t allow for any renovations – especially with festive season expenses around the corner – the good news is that there are quick and easy things you can do on a budget to create an outdoor entertainment area from scratch, or update an existing neglected space into your favourite place to spend time in.
Orlando Luis, CEO of Brights Hardware, a leading independent hardware retailer, offers some tips:
Set the scene – “If you don’t have an outdoor entertainment space, choose an area close to the house or near the pool if you have one, and lay down some cement paving stones and/or stone chips. Another option is to create an area of wooden decking, and people are doing clever things with reclaimed pallet wood that is cheap and effective.”
Light it up – “Once you have the stage set for your new entertainment area, the next thing you want to do is provide some lighting. There are many solar options on the market that allow you to install instant lighting without needing to get in an electrician to do the wiring. Choose between solar lanterns, spotlights, downlighters, motion sensor lights, floating solar pool lights, garden lights and so many more.”
Sitting pretty – “No entertainment area is complete without seating, and ideally a dining area for some alfresco meals. If you can, treat yourself to some new outdoor furniture to finish off your new space.”
“There are so many products available for the upcycling enthusiast, and you can customise the furniture to suite any colour scheme or style.”
Blooming good ideas – Having some strategically placed pots planted up with a variety of herbs, flowers, rose bushes, ornamental trees, or suitable bushes (whatever you personally prefer) will add a beautiful element to your newly created entertainment area.
Get things cooking – Last, but certainly not least, Luis adds that if you are able to, invest in a portable braai to go with your new entertainment area. “Outdoor entertaining in SA is not complete without a braai. The evocative smell of meat sizzling over the heat, family and friends gathered enjoying each other’s company and savouring a delicious meal – is one of our favourite pastimes.”
Brights hardware stores have on-site experts in all branches, ready to provide advice and guidance on any product, building and renovating trends.
