Apart from being places in which you can create beauty, gardens also have the potential to be outdoor entertaining spaces. With a few clever gardening ideas, you can transform your garden into the perfect spot for entertaining friends and family.
Your outdoor area can become an extension of your home, offering a beautiful and functional space for gatherings, meals, and relaxation.
Creating an inviting outdoor entertaining space doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. Focus on key elements like plant selection, layout, and lighting. You can then craft a garden that’s both visually stunning and practical for hosting guests.
Whether you have a small patio, a decked area or a sprawling perennial garden, these brilliant home gardening ideas will help you make the most of your outdoor area.
1) Outdoor pizza oven
You’ll love having an outdoor pizza oven in your garden. It’s a brilliant way to spice up your entertaining space and impress your guests. Imagine the aroma of freshly baked pizzas wafting through your outdoor area as you socialise with friends and family.
Building a pizza oven doesn’t have to be complicated. You can opt for a pre-made model or construct one yourself using bricks and mortar. If you’re feeling handy, there are plenty of DIY kits available that provide all the materials you need.
When choosing a spot for your pizza oven, consider convenience and safety. Place it near your outdoor seating area, but ensure there’s enough space around it for people to move comfortably. A sturdy base is crucial, so you might want to lay a concrete slab or use paving stones.
Don’t forget to accessorise your pizza oven area. A prep table nearby will make cooking easier, whilst a storage box for wood will keep your fuel dry and ready to use. You could even plant some herbs like basil and oregano close by for fresh toppings. Or you could incorporate it into a complete outdoor kitchen.
With your new outdoor pizza oven, you’ll create a focal point for gatherings and enjoy delicious, crispy pizzas all summer long. It’s a fantastic addition to any garden and will surely elevate your outdoor entertaining game.
2) Scented herb garden
A scented herb garden is a brilliant way to enhance your outdoor entertaining space. You’ll love the aromatic experience it brings to your garden parties and casual gatherings. Plus, it’s practical too!
Start by choosing fragrant herbs like lavender, rosemary, and mint. These plants not only smell lovely but also look beautiful. Plant them in raised beds or pots near your seating area for easy access.
Consider adding thyme and sage to your herb collection. They’re hardy plants that release their scent when brushed against. Place them along pathways or near steps where guests might brush past.
Don’t forget about lemon balm and chamomile. These herbs have a calming effect and can help create a relaxing atmosphere for your guests. They’re perfect for evening gatherings.
Remember to group your herbs based on their water needs. This makes maintenance easier and ensures all your plants thrive. Keep some scissors handy so you and your guests can snip fresh herbs for drinks or garnishes.
3) Solar-powered string lights
Solar-powered string lights can transform your outdoor entertaining space into a magical wonderland after dark. These eco-friendly lights harness the sun’s energy during the day and automatically illuminate your garden at night.
You’ll find a variety of styles to suit your taste. From delicate fairy lights to colourful lanterns, there’s something for every garden theme. Drape them along fences, wrap them around tree trunks, or hang them from pergolas to create a warm, inviting ambiance.
Installation is a breeze. Simply place the solar panel in a sunny spot and arrange the lights as desired. No need to fuss with electrical outlets or timers. The lights will switch on automatically at dusk, creating a seamless transition from day to night.
These lights are not just for summer soirées. They can add a cosy glow to your garden all year round. In winter, they’ll make your outdoor space feel welcoming even on the chilliest evenings.
For the best results, choose high-quality lights with durable, weather-resistant materials. This ensures they’ll withstand the elements and continue to shine brightly for years to come.
4) DIY pallet furniture
Transform your garden with charming DIY pallet furniture. This eco-friendly option is perfect for adding rustic appeal to your outdoor space. You can easily create seating, tables, and planters using reclaimed wooden pallets.
Start by sanding the pallets well to remove any rough spots and splinters. Apply a coat of weather-resistant varnish to protect the wood from the elements.
For a simple bench, stack two pallets and secure them together. Add cushions for comfort and a pop of colour. You can also create a coffee table by attaching casters to the bottom of a pallet for easy mobility.
Get creative with vertical planters by attaching pots or small shelves to an upright pallet. This is brilliant for herb gardens or displaying colourful flowers. Paint your pallet creations in vibrant hues to match your garden’s theme.
Remember to check pallets for any treatment stamps before use. Opt for heat-treated (HT) pallets rather than chemically treated ones for safety. With a bit of imagination, you can craft unique, sustainable furniture that enhances your outdoor entertaining area.
5) Living garden wall
Admittedly, this is not a simple or inexpensive option, and a living wall requires a fair bit of maintenance.
But, there is no doubt that a living garden wall can turn a boring outdoor space into stunning green statement.
These are perfect for small gardens or patios where you want to make the most of vertical space. You’ll love how it adds colour and texture to your entertaining area.
To create your own living wall, start with a sturdy frame. You can buy ready-made systems or build one yourself using wooden pallets. Make sure it’s securely attached to your wall or fence.
Next, choose your plants. Pick a mix of trailing and upright varieties for visual interest. Succulents, ferns, and small flowering plants work well. Consider herbs too – they’ll look lovely and be handy for cooking.
Make sure you choose plants that are drought tolerant and plants that are suitable for the wall’s aspect – eg full sun, shade or partial shade.
Planting is easy. Use special pockets or modules filled with potting soil. Water regularly, especially during hot weather. A drip irrigation system can make this task much simpler.
Your living wall will need some care. Trim plants as needed and replace any that don’t thrive. With a bit of attention, your vertical garden will be a stunning backdrop for outdoor gatherings.
Maximising outdoor entertaining space in small gardens
6) Vertical gardening techniques
Small gardens can be transformed into stunning outdoor entertaining spaces with clever design tricks. By utilising vertical space and raised beds, you can create a lush and inviting atmosphere without sacrificing precious square footage.
Vertical gardening is a brilliant way to make the most of limited space. You can create a living wall like the specialist one featured above.
Alternatively, you can simply use a trellis or wire mesh attached to your fence or wall. Plant climbing vines like clematis or jasmine to add colour and fragrance.
Pocket planters are another option – hang them on walls or fences to grow herbs or small flowers.
For a unique touch, you can also repurpose old wooden pallets. Stand them upright and use the gaps between slats as planting pockets. Fill them with colourful annuals or trailing plants for a eye-catching display.
Don’t forget to look up! Hanging baskets suspended from pergolas or brackets can add layers of greenery without taking up ground space.
7) Using raised beds
Raised beds are perfect for small gardens. They allow you to control soil quality and provide better drainage. Build them along the edges of your garden to maximise central space for entertaining. Use sturdy materials like timber or stone for a polished look.
Consider tiered raised beds to add depth and interest. Plant taller vegetables or ornamental grasses at the back, with shorter plants in front. This creates a lovely backdrop for your seating area.
Raised beds also double as casual seating. Build them to a comfortable height (about 45 cm) and top with decking boards. Your guests can perch on the edges while admiring your handiwork.
Creating a relaxing atmosphere
A serene outdoor space can transform your garden into a tranquil retreat. By focusing on water features and thoughtful lighting, you can craft an inviting ambiance for relaxation and entertaining.
8) Incorporating water features
Water features add a soothing element to your garden, creating a peaceful atmosphere. A small fountain or pond can become the centrepiece of your outdoor space. The gentle sound of trickling water helps mask unwanted noise and promotes relaxation.
Consider a tabletop fountain for small patios or balconies. These compact options are easy to install and maintain. For larger gardens, a cascading waterfall or koi pond can serve as a stunning focal point.
Don’t forget about wildlife. A shallow birdbath attracts feathered friends, adding life and movement to your garden. Place it near seating areas for the best views.
The Role of Lighting
Proper lighting can dramatically enhance the mood of your outdoor space as day turns to night. Soft, warm lighting creates a cosy atmosphere perfect for evening gatherings.
String lights are a versatile option. Drape them over pergolas or along fences to create a magical ambiance. Solar-powered lanterns are another eco-friendly choice, providing gentle illumination without increasing your energy bills.
For pathways and steps, consider low-voltage LED lights. These guide guests safely while adding a subtle glow to your garden. Uplighting trees or architectural features can create dramatic shadows and depth.
Remember to vary light levels. Brighter areas for activities like dining can be balanced with dimmer, more intimate spaces for relaxation.
Martin Cole has been an avid plant lover and gardener for more than 20 years and loves to talk and write about gardening. In 2006 he was a finalist in the BBC Gardener of the Year competition. He is a member of the National dahlia Society.
He previously lived in London and Sydney, Australia, where he took a diploma course in Horticultural studies and is now based in North Berwick in Scotland. He founded GardeningStepbyStep.com in 2012. The website is aimed at everybody who loves plants or has been bitten by the gardening bug and wants to know more.
Gardening Step by Step has been cited by Thompson and Morgan, the UK’s largest mail order plant retailer, as a website that publishes expert gardening content.