As the summer settles in, long days and balmy evenings invite us to spend more time outdoors. It’s the season for relaxed lunches, intimate dinners and treasured moments shared with family and friends. Outdoor entertaining is more than a pastime; it’s a way of life and one that Glenvill Homes plans for, from the very beginning.
Whether you’re hosting a casual family barbecue or a more considered gathering, a thoughtfully styled outdoor setting creates the perfect backdrop.
Many Glenvill homes feature an alfresco area as standard, providing a seamless extension of the home and an ideal foundation for entertaining. From here, you have the flexibility to tailor your outdoor space to suit the time of day, the season and the occasion.
During daylight hours, a shaded alfresco offers welcome protection from the summer sun, keeping guests comfortable and food fresh. Ceiling fans or natural cross ventilation enhance the space, while the open connection to the backyard allows children to play freely, while the adults relax nearby.
As the evening approaches, entertaining can shift beyond the alfresco and into the garden. A beautifully styled table set directly on the grass can create an intimate, immersive experience, surrounded by nature. Soft lighting from lanterns or string lights adds warmth as the sun sets, transforming the space into a garden retreat. Dining beneath the stars captures the essence of Australian outdoor living; effortless, social and connected to the landscape.
Once your setting is chosen, the table becomes the centrepiece. Consider the tone of your gathering and let that guide your styling. A neutral linen tablecloth introduces texture, while coloured napkins, sculptural tableware and understated centrepieces elevate the look without feeling formal.
Outdoor friendly glassware, such as acrylic or durable drinkware, offers practicality for family friendly entertaining or poolside occasions. Fresh florals, candles and subtle decorative accents bring the table to life, while cushions and soft furnishings nearby add comfort and a sense of cohesion to the space.
The menu is part of the experience. Seasonal produce is key; light, fresh dishes that reflect the ease of summer dining. For relaxed gatherings, a simple menu of grilled meats accompanied by a variety of salads offer timeless options. More formal occasions may call for a considered set menu with a variety of lighter courses, allowing guests to savour the moment.
Incorporating summer fruits such as watermelon, stone fruit or berries adds brightness to both savoury dishes and desserts, finishing the meal on a refreshing note.
At Glenvill Homes, you can select the option to include an outdoor kitchen, making entertaining even more seamless. Preparing, cooking and serving within the same space allows hosts to remain part of the occasion, reinforcing the connection between indoor and outdoor living.
Hydration is essential during warmer months, and a drinks station ensures guests are comfortable throughout the day or evening. A bar cart or side table with water, soft drinks and a curated selection of alcoholic beverages keeps everything within reach. Garnishes and plenty of ice adds a polished touch, while a signature cocktail or mocktail can tie back to the theme of the gathering.
To complete the experience, consider activities that encourage connection and enjoyment. Lawn games such as cricket or lawn bowls suit afternoons, while a firepit creates a natural gathering point as the evening cools. For homes with a pool, simple poolside activities or relaxed lounging extend the celebration well into the night.
At Glenvill Homes, outdoor living is thoughtfully integrated into every design. Our Home Designs are created to embrace the outdoors, with flexible alfresco spaces and optional features that enhance the way Australians live and entertain.
This summer, take advantage of the warmer weather and create moments that linger long after the evening ends. With considered design and a welcoming setting, outdoor entertaining becomes effortless and unforgettable.
