Outdoor Design Tips to Make Entertaining Al Fresco Memorable

The dry climate and pristine golf courses may bring people to the American Southwest, but the majestic desert landscape draws them in. Don’t waste a star-filled evening inside, create the perfect space to host amazing gatherings two steps out your back door. 

Whether you are entertaining friends for an evening or your family for a few weeks, having outdoor amenities in your second home gives you more ways to make unforgettable memories.

Expand your space with easy indoor-outdoor transitions

Your outdoor patios should be just as welcoming and comfortable as the rest of your home. Make these spaces feel like another living space by extending the look and feel of the inside to the outside. 

One of the easiest ways to do this is with foldable or sliding glass wall separators. You have access to the amazing view when you aren’t hosting, and it’s a simple way to transition from an intimate gathering to an open floor plan for larger parties. 

Another way to make your outdoor living space feel like home is to continue the curated design details, such as colors and materials, from inside your home. Maintain the color palette with the seating and decor, and select stone or wood details to bring those materials into the outdoor space. The Village House, for example, was designed to be a replica of a structure in Tuscany. Intricate details on the back patio, such as the tile flooring and ornamentation on the columns, mirror the inside. Stone and wooden beams continue from the great room to the outdoor space creating an Old World European feeling surrounded with all the modern touches that make desert living pure luxury.

It’s important to keep your guests comfortable, or they will opt for the controlled climate of the indoors. Install hidden heaters in the rafters for brisk evenings and misting fans for poolside relaxation. With adjustable shades, you can keep the sun off your guests no matter what time of day it is.

Ambiance lighting also plays a key role in making guests feel welcome. Programmable lighting can dim the fixtures automatically based on the time of day, so your guests can see their drinks but aren’t blinded by floodlights.

For larger events where guests will be meandering back and forth, be sure to have a seamless sound experience with a whole-house hifi sound technology system so no one misses a beat if they are in the kitchen refilling drinks or relaxing outdoors.

Draw your guests to outdoor focal points

Avoid awkward milling about by giving your guests an obvious place to mingle. Create spaces that your friends and family naturally gather around, such as fire pits, a pool, or a relaxing water feature.

Your guests will gravitate to places to sit and places to put down their drinks and plates. Provide a variety of seating, including modular designs that can be adjusted for different-sized groups. Chairs and tables of different heights give your guests more accessible options.

There is no shortage of patio design ideas with fire pits, from a minimalist pit surrounded by plush seating for small group conversation to stone finished designs ready for the perfect s’more. If you are looking for a more iconic option, kiva fireplaces add a southwest feel and create a clear focal point.

Fire pits are fantastic for evening get-togethers, but soirees in the Arizona afternoon call for something a little more refreshing. Infinity pools bring a dramatic look to your outdoor space and are great for visits from the grandkids. Waterfalls and unique water features provide a bit of serenity for a morning coffee with friends. The Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired Water Way Residence has a sleek canal that runs from the front courtyard through the house and connects to the modern pool in the back.

For a more active focal point, include some fun and games. For the avid golfer crowd, have guests take turns on your personal putting green. A bocce ball court is a great option for group activities.

Build in convenience with an outdoor kitchen

There are a lot of benefits to hosting a gathering, such as deciding what’s on the menu and choosing the music. But it’s also easy to get stuck checking in on things in the kitchen away from all the fun. Don’t miss a moment of the action with a built-in grill, a stone pizza oven, and a full wet bar on your patio.

The grill is typically the center of the outdoor kitchen. Make sure it has the accouterments you prefer, such as a griddle and a warming rack. Take your main dish up a notch by including space for a smoker as well. A woodfire pizza oven makes for a great customizable (and kid-friendly) menu for casual gatherings.

The best part about having an outdoor kitchen is the convenience. Assembly and clean-up are a breeze with a hidden pantry, refrigerator, and sink. Make sure you have plenty of counter space for meal prep and serving and don’t forget plenty of outlets and beautiful lighting. Have fun with a custom configuration that fits your lifestyle.

Design your outdoor entertaining area with the surroundings in mind

Use the majestic Southwest environment to guide your landscaping, material choices, and layout. The best options reflect that local landscape and hold up to the harsh elements. Find ways to include adobe and stone to help regulate the temperature and incorporate a southwest mood. Wood products provide a natural feel but can require significant maintenance to hold up to the harsh sun. Opt for sustainable lumber alternatives, a heavyweight material made from recycled plastic, for furnishings to complement the natural look without fading or constant staining.

Around your patio, consider xeriscaping for low-maintenance and water-friendly landscaping. Choose native plants such as agave and juniper to give your backyard some color. Stone paths around the estate provide your guests an opportunity for quiet reflection or an easy walk-and-talk.

Be the go-to home for outdoor entertaining

Whether you are new to the area or have been vacationing here for years, make your outdoor entertaining area the place everyone wants to be. With sophisticated amenities, you can host unforgettable get-togethers with your friends and family without missing a moment.

If you are ready to create a second home perfect for entertaining, connect with us. Our experts will help you design the perfect luxury home.