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Outdoor Design
How to set up your backyard for game day
How to set up your backyard for game day
Overview
Whether you're cheering on your favourite team or catching up with family and friends, game day is the perfect excuse to get everyone together. You don't need a large backyard or a complete outdoor makeover either. By making the most of what you already have and choosing versatile furniture that can do double duty, you can create a comfortable entertaining area that's easy to set up, enjoy and pack away once the final whistle blows.
Safety tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glasses, ear muffs and a mask, for example) and follow the product or equipment instructions.
Steps
Create entertaining zones
Start by thinking about how your guests will use the space. Setting up separate areas for cooking, dining and drinks will help everyone move around more easily and avoid crowding in one spot. Position your dining setting where there's plenty of room to gather and choose outdoor furniture that works hard year-round, such as bench seating that tucks neatly under the table when it's not in use to save space, and storage for outdoor cushions and entertaining items.Set up the BBQ
Next, create a dedicated BBQ area that's easy to access from your dining setting. If you're working with a smaller patio or courtyard, a portable BBQ on a trolley is a practical addition. It gives you extra bench space for preparing and serving food while allowing you to easily wheel the BBQ into position when entertaining, then move it undercover or out of the way once everyone heads home. Keeping your cooking utensils, sauces and serving platters on the trolley also means everything you need is close at hand while you're cooking.Create a self-serve drinks station
If you already have a potting bench or raised planter in your backyard, there's no reason it can't do double duty on game day. Simply clear the shelves, fill a galvanised drinks cooler with ice and your favourite drinks, and place it on top to create a self-serve station that's easy for guests to access. Use the shelves below to store glasses, napkins and extra drinks, keeping everything organised and freeing up valuable space on the dining table. Once the celebrations are over, it's just as easy to convert it back into your everyday gardening station or outdoor bar.Add comfort and atmosphere
Layer outdoor cushions on benches and chairs to make your entertaining area feel more comfortable and inviting. Position an outdoor umbrella over the dining area to provide shade during the day, adjusting it as the sun moves to keep everyone comfortable. If the fun continues into the evening, add outdoor string lights or portable lanterns to create a warm, welcoming atmosphere after dark.Style the table
A simple table runner, serving platters and bowls are all you need to create a relaxed entertaining space. Use food covers to help keep flies away while everyone enjoys the game and serve snacks and share plates that guests can easily help themselves to throughout the day. Keeping the table simple also makes it easier to top up food and clean up afterwards.Make pack-up easy
As the day winds down, store cushions, outdoor games or spare blankets in an outdoor storage box to keep everything organised and protected until your next get-together. The storage box can also double as extra seating or a handy side table during the event, making it a practical addition to any entertaining space. With everything in place, all that's left to do is fire up the BBQ, gather your favourite people and enjoy the game.Find your perfect barbecue
Ready to upgrade your outdoor entertaining setup? Check out our BBQ buying guide to help you choose the right barbecue for your space and cooking style.
Frequently asked questions
How do I create a backyard entertaining area for game day?
Create separate zones for cooking, dining and drinks. This helps guests move around easily and keeps the space organised during the event.
What furniture works best for outdoor entertaining?
Choose versatile outdoor furniture that can serve multiple purposes, such as bench seating that tucks away neatly and storage solutions that double as seating or tables.
How can I set up a self-serve drinks station outdoors?
A potting bench or raised planter can be repurposed as a drinks station by placing a drinks cooler on top and storing glasses and supplies on the shelves beneath.
How can I make my backyard more comfortable for guests?
Add outdoor cushions, provide shade with an umbrella and use outdoor lighting such as string lights or lanterns if entertaining into the evening.
What is the easiest way to keep an outdoor entertaining space organised?
Use an outdoor storage box to store cushions, games and entertaining accessories. Many storage boxes can also double as seating or side tables.
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Health & Safety
Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.
When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.