Summer living: Maximise your outdoors

Summer and outdoor living go together like… bacon and eggs, gin and tonic, children and sticky fingers! With the sun warming your face and the temperature soaring, now is the perfect time to enjoy the beautiful weather outside. Make the most of your outdoor deck – and maybe even your pergola – to entertain, relax and keep the little ones busy for this sweltering season.

For a really cosy, comfy spot outside, you need to include some (or all) of the following on your composite wood deck and under your pergola:

•  Ambient lighting
  Create a warm, casual setting by using fairy lights, lanterns, candles and outdoor chandeliers. This establishes your deck and pergola as perfect outdoor venues for sundowners, dinners and after-dark swims… all with the help of a little glow.
• Inviting seating
  It’s worth investing in comfortable outdoor furniture that promises long, lazy summer days and complements your deck’s style and the space under your pergola. This furniture should be hardy, able to tolerate the sun and not get too hot. Consider a mix of options (couches, benches and fold-up chairs) to create an inviting atmosphere and lots of options. Add plenty of cushions and throws for extra comfort, even after the sun sets.
• Gorgeous greenery
  By including herbs, flowers, potted plants, creepers, hedges and trees in your outdoor space, you’ll create a stunning garden, even in a small area. Hanging baskets and vertical gardens in or next to your composite wood pergola add the element of nature and enhance the overall aesthetic without taking up too much space.
• Outdoor rugs and blankets
  Outdoor rugs and blankets add colour, texture, style, and warmth to your deck and pergola. On hot summer days, they’re just great for aesthetics. But, in the evening, when the temperature dips, having cosy blankets means that everyone can stay outside and make the most of the longer days.

For a really cosy, comfy spot outside, you need to include some (or all) of the following on your composite wood deck and under your pergola:

• Braai bliss
  We need no excuses to braai all summer long, and this is a stunning way to spend time with your nearest and dearest. When the kids are jumping in and out of the pool, simply slap some burgers on the grill. When you’re celebrating something special, amp up your braai and include prawns, steaks and ribs.
• Happy hour
  Set up an outdoor cocktail bar on your deck or under your pergola and get the party started! Play some cool tunes and make sure there are plenty of comfortable spots to sit and snack in true summer style.
• Movie night under the stars
  Set up a movie screen (or hang up a big sheet) and projector on your outdoor deck, grab pillows and snacks and enjoy an unforgettable movie night.
• Games day
  Use your outdoor space to the max when you host a games day with friends and family. Bring out the old favourite board games, cards, or physical games like cornhole or Twister. Hours of fun are guaranteed.
• Party time
  December is the time to celebrate! If you celebrate the summer holidays, consider having your parties outdoors. An inviting deck and pergola are great spots for unwrapping presents or for ringing in the new year.

More ways to make the most out of your outdoor space:

• Include a fire pit as the perfect feature for nights outdoors. Toast marshmallows or simply chill around the crackling flames.
• Use a private little corner on your deck as a zen zone where you can meditate, do yoga, or read to the soothing sound of wind chimes.
• Set up an outdoor kitchen so that washing and prepping your food doesn’t have to feel like a chore, it is all part of the outdoor summer fun. It also makes entertaining so much easier, as you’re always around your guests, even when you’re doing a little prep.

• Protect your furniture: Opt for weather-resistant covers for your outdoor furniture and use these to protect it from the elements when they’re not in use.
• Clean up: Best Deck’s composite wood decking and pergolas are particularly easy to clean, requiring only a sweep and, occasionally, a light mopping. Keep your outdoor space clean and tidy to make sure that your friends and family come back year after year.
• Keep the mozzies away: use citronella candles to keep mosquitos and flies away so that you can enjoy sitting outdoors without their unwanted company.

Most of all, have fun! Enjoy a special summer holiday with your favourite people while you get ready to launch into a fun, successful 2025!