As the days grow longer and the air gets warmer, spring is the perfect time to gather friends and family for outdoor entertaining. Creating the right setting is key to making your guests feel comfortable, and with the right combination of design, functionality, and a few expert tips, you can turn your outdoor space into an oasis. We’ve gathered advice from some of the top experts in outdoor furniture, kitchens, and heating to help you elevate your next gathering.
Tom White from The Best Backyard shared that their mission is to help people make the most of their outdoor spaces by offering furniture that’s built to last and designed for comfort. “Having a dedicated seating area and thoughtful lighting are must-haves for any outdoor space. We’ve seen a growing trend in using high bar tables and outdoor lounges to create that perfect blend of style and functionality,” Tom explained. “Spring is the ideal time to freshen up your backyard and make it a true extension of your home.”
Our top choice for outdoor entertaining this spring: Siesta Slim Sunlounger The Siesta Slim Sunlounger by The Best Backyard is a must-have for any springtime gathering. This commercial-grade, European-made sunlounger features:
- A sleek, stackable design
- Hidden wheels for easy mobility
- Anti-slip rubbers for added safety
Built with durable, UV-stable, weather-resistant resin, it’s designed to withstand Australia’s harsh outdoor conditions without fading or deteriorating. Strong yet lightweight, the Slim Sunlounger offers both style and practicality, making it a perfect addition to your outdoor entertaining area.
The Siesta Slim Sunlounger from The Best Backyard helps to create the perfect outdoor vibe.
Invest in Durable, Weather-Resistant Materials
Australia’s climate can be harsh, from intense sun to coastal breezes and heavy rains, so durability is essential when choosing outdoor furniture. Karina Bingley-Pullin from Remarkable Outdoor Furniture suggests materials like teak, aluminium, and UV-resistant fabrics, which are built to last. "Teak is naturally resistant to moisture and pests, while aluminium is lightweight and rust-resistant," she explains. For coastal areas, she recommends marine-grade options to handle salt spray and prevent corrosion.
The Skyline Outdoor Alumnium Range from Remarkable Outdoor Furniture is durable yet stylish.
Roger Wei from Temple & Webster also recommends teak for its natural weather resistance and suggests aluminium for its ability to withstand the elements. "Aluminium is rust-resistant, making it great for coastal areas, and it stays cooler in the heat," he says.
Nadi Outdoor Dining Set. Credit: Temple and Webster Showcasing their stylish and durable design with sustainably sourced materials and weather-resistant features.
Similarly, Jeff Tsang from Cult Design highlights the need to select materials suited to the outdoor environment, emphasising that even metals like stainless steel can corrode over time, especially in coastal areas. "Powder coating gives better protection for metals, particularly near the sea," he advises. Selecting the right materials can significantly extend the life of your outdoor furniture.
It’s also important to be mindful of your specific location. Jay Lawson from SLH Furniture / MAMAGREEN](https://mamagreen.com/) discusses the importance of selecting the right materials based on location. “People really need to choose the right materials for their environment—by the coast or in the mountains,” he says, highlighting the importance of knowing how different climates affect furniture. Teak and powder-coated aluminium are among the top choices for long-lasting, stylish pieces.
The beautiful and flexible Munia sectional sofa from MAMAGREEN is perfect for outdoor entertaining.
Create a Multifunctional Outdoor Space
When designing your outdoor area, versatility is key. Jason Woodland from Fanuli recommends opting for modular furniture that can be rearranged to suit different occasions. "Modular pieces are great because you can move them around and create different environments," he says. This flexibility is perfect for both small gatherings and large parties, allowing you to adapt your space as needed.
Fire pits are another multifunctional feature that can enhance your outdoor space. Ricardo Fioravanti from Unique Fire Pits notes that round fire pits create a social atmosphere, encouraging guests to gather and connect. Meanwhile, CJ Mackay from Castworks highlights the appeal of fire pits that double as cooking stations, such as teppanyaki-style grills. “Circular fire pits are ideal because everyone can gather around and cook together, making it a truly interactive experience,” he adds.
Meanwhile, Roger Wei from Temple & Webster points out that trends like the indoor-outdoor look are growing. "Many indoor furniture designs are being adapted for outdoor use, making it easier to create a cohesive look," he explains. Adding versatile pieces like daybeds and storage ottomans can also improve both the functionality and aesthetic of your space.
Outdoor Kitchens: The Heart of Your Gathering
An outdoor kitchen can take your entertaining to the next level. Ben Barber from Mojito Outdoor Kitchens emphasises the importance of investing in high-quality appliances, particularly a good barbecue. "A barbecue with wok burners or slow smokers can make your space versatile and enjoyable," he says. Outdoor kitchens can also include fridges, sinks, and pizza ovens, turning your backyard into a fully functional culinary space.
Angela Polito from Polito Wood Fire Ovens notes that wood-fired ovens are increasingly popular for outdoor kitchens. "If you can incorporate a wood-fired oven close to your home, you'll find yourself using it all year round," she says. Polito recommends designing the space so the oven is accessible, with nearby prep space to make cooking easier and more enjoyable.
The functional and sculptural Giotto Wood Fire Over from Polito adds the perfect balance of function and form to your outdoor area.
Year-Round Comfort with Heating Solutions
Outdoor entertaining doesn’t have to be limited to warm weather. Stylish and efficient heating can extend your time outside well into the cooler months. Simon Cullen from EcoSmart Fire suggests radiant heating, which provides warmth without compromising on design. "Our heaters extend outdoor living into cooler months, ensuring comfort and style all year round," he says.
For those in coastal areas, Sonny Singh from Bromic recommends marine-grade heaters that withstand salt spray and harsh conditions. These heaters are weather-resistant and versatile, making them a great investment for long-term comfort.
Focus on Sustainability and Style
Sustainability is becoming a priority in outdoor design. Patryc Lampasi from Harbour explains that materials like recycled wood and aluminium are in high demand. "People are looking for eco-friendly options that blend style with environmental responsibility," he notes.
The Avalon arm chair from Harbour is a delightful balance of style and comfort for your spring gatherings.
Jay Lawson echoes this sentiment, pointing out the rise of recycled plastics and high-performance fabrics in outdoor furniture. "You can now find luxurious outdoor fabrics that feel like indoor ones but stand up to the elements," he says, making it easier to create a seamless indoor-outdoor flow.
Set the Scene with Lighting and Accessories
Lighting and accessories are crucial for setting the mood in your outdoor area. Jeff Tsang from Cult suggests using portable LED lights, which are both energy-efficient and practical. "Portable lights are a great way to add a pop of colour and create ambiance without needing to be plugged in," he says. Jay Lawson from SLH Furniture also suggests investing in solar-powered lamps and soft lighting to create a warm, inviting atmosphere as the evening sets in. "Lighting adds a whole new mood to your space and allows you to stay outside longer," he says.
Houe Outdoor Lanterns from SLH Furniture bring a touch of elegance and ambiance to your spring gathering.
Outdoor rugs are another way to elevate the space, according to Tsang. "Rugs designed for outdoor use can add warmth and texture, making your space feel more like a living room," he adds. Complement these with throws, cushions, and lanterns for a cosy and inviting atmosphere.
CJ Mackay from Castworks also emphasises the importance of functionality over pure aesthetics. “You want to use these products, not just look at them,” he advises. Make sure your outdoor furniture is practical and easy to maintain, especially if you plan to use it frequently.
Final Thoughts
Spring is the ideal time to refresh your outdoor entertaining space and make it a hub for social gatherings. By choosing durable, sustainable materials, incorporating multifunctional features like fire pits and outdoor kitchens, and adding stylish heating and lighting, you can create a space that is both functional and beautiful. Whether you’re hosting a casual barbecue or a more formal dinner party, these expert tips will help you make the most of your outdoor space this season.