4 Backyard Upgrades For Outdoor Entertaining Done Right

Published Date: Apr 9, 2024

With the days getting longer and the weather warming up, it’s officially the start of outdoor entertainment season! Maximize the entertainment potential of your patio, deck, or outdoor kitchen with this quick list of backyard essentials that will kick up your outdoor enjoyment this season and beyond.

Fire Up Some Fun

Recently, System Pavers surveyed homeowners to see what topped their list of features they wanted in their backyard. Number one on the list was a fire pit, which is a fantastic way to bring people together and entertain. Whether you get a freestanding fire pit or have a stone one installed in a permanent location in your yard, you’ll find that a fire pit is the perfect excuse to get outside more.

If you’d like a fire pit that’s the epitome of convenience, opt for a gas-powered one so you can light things up with the flick of a switch. By surrounding yours with comfy chairs, such as these modern Adirondack chairs or built-in seating, you’ll have the perfect spot to hangout and have fun night and day.

For people looking for a fire feature with even more impact, you can go big and have an official outdoor fireplace built in your yard or on your paving stone patio or courtyard. It’ll not only give you a great place to hang out with loved ones but will also be a beautiful focal point that elevates the look of your paver courtyard or patio. Cozying up with smores or sharing some wine by the fire creates memories that last a lifetime, and you’ll have just the place to do that, time and time again.

Cook Up Your Best Times Together

A custom BBQ island or grilling station is always a crowd pleaser. It can be as simple or as elaborate as you choose. Features like a smoker (this Kamado Grill by BLAZE is guaranteed to get mouths watering!), rotisserie, side burners and more gives grill masters plenty of options for perfecting their recipes. With the right design, your grilling station can become an eye-catching focal point in your backyard, complete with built-in storage and countertops with space for prepping.

If you’re a big fan of cooking outdoors, another feature that homeowners are looking for these days are complete outdoor kitchens. There’s no better way to boost your outdoor entertainment potential than by having a spacious kitchen, complete with chef-worthy appliances and storage, right outside your back door.

Include features such as a built-in grill, refrigerator, sink, storage, and countertop seating, and you’ll have all the tools you need to ensure everyone has a great time. Pizza ovens have been a popular pick for homeowners looking to expand their outdoor menu options. And by adding a pergola-covered space for dining or a bar area with seating, you’ll take your outdoor socializing potential even further. The key is to include all the features that make you feel most at home while making your outdoor kitchen convenient and enticing to use any time.

Entertainment Made In The Shade

Pergolas are another wonderful way to create an inviting space for outdoor entertaining. By creating a sense of enclosure, they bring a lounge or living room-like feel to your outdoors. Some pergolas have full roofs (similar to a gazebo) while others are partially covered to offer a bit of shade while keeping things breezy. You can also choose louvered pergolas with panels that can be adjusted to protect from sun.

Bring Your “A” Game

Lastly, don’t forget the outdoor games! Classics like cornhole, washer toss and croquet are a must for making the most of your outdoor fun. Keep several spaced around your yard to liven up any get-together and spark a bit of friendly competition among friends and family. Our System Pavers Outdoor Store features a curated selection of timeless favorites that are all made of top-quality materials built to handle the elements.

All it takes is a few upgrades to take your backyard from boring to party central! By adding one or more of these features, you’ll unlock your home’s full potential for entertaining outdoors and enjoying more quality time with the ones you love. Looking for more inspiration? Check out our Inspiration Gallery for ideas on how to transform your outdoor living space into everyone’s favorite place to hang out.