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An outdoor seating area can serve several functions including relaxation, entertainment, dining, and children’s play zone. It’s a perfect extension of any home.

Prayer altars and entertainment corners

Homeowners are increasingly building outdoor seating areas. According to Joshua Twinomurinzi, a landscaper, these corners also act as prayer altars and fellowship meeting places. They are the go-to spaces for spending time with friends and family. It is easy to create a distinct seating area, even in a small compound says Leonard Muzahura a landscaper. Install it in a place where you can sit and enjoy the entire garden. Angellah Asiimwe, another lawyer weighs in saying, such a corner saves her and guests from being confined indoors whenever she hosts.

Homeowners are increasingly building outdoor seating areas. According to Joshua Twinomurinzi, a landscaper, these corners also act as prayer altars and fellowship meeting places. (Courtesy photo)

How to install a multi-purpose shade

Start by demarcating a corner of your garden to create a built-in seating area. Ensure the seats are installed in a way that allows people sit together or face each other. You can also include planting areas around the sides and at the back. Users will feel like they are nestled into that beautiful space. If it is in a large garden, add a boundary that acts as a unique backdrop. It can be a small wall (wooden or bricks) or a water feature like a water curtain embellished with plants. However, ensure the seating area is roofed or under a shade. Opt for grass thatched African-style or use iron sheets. With a roof, you can add lanterns for the evening as you enjoy your garden. Also, take the flooring into consideration. For example, decide whether to use tiles, concrete, stones, carpets or artificial grass, so long as it gives the furniture a flat and stable surface.

How to decorate with rugs and furniture

Add warmth and style to your seating area by incorporating rugs on the floor. They help to keep the feet warm. When it comes to furniture, choose permanent built-in seats and if you prefer movable furniture, use outdoor chairs, benches and tables that are weather-friendly.

Plants

Make the seating area cosy by adding plants such as peace lilies and culinary herbs, which can be added to teas, sauces and juices. Pot them and use those planters to divide the space. If you built planting spaces earlier on, then, go for low beds. Fill them with scented plants, perennials or evergreens to have a lush garden all year round. Embellish the interior with hanging and wall-mounted flowers.

Homeowners are increasingly building outdoor seating areas. According to Joshua Twinomurinzi, a landscaper, these corners also act as prayer altars and fellowship meeting places. (Courtesy photo)

Lighting

Asiimwe says lighting helps to create a relaxing environment in the outdoors and the options are unlimited. Combine electric and natural lighting to create the perfect ambience in your space. You can illuminate the area with draping outdoor string lights above the seats or hang lamps. An outdoor chandelier with hanging lights also works. Finish up the look with candles and lanterns.