by Karyn Brodsky
Looking for the most effective way to keep an eye on your children during the summer? Transform your backyard into the ultimate hangout spot, and their friends will naturally gravitate there. It’s a beneficial situation for everyone involved: you’ll always know where your kids are, plus you can enhance your outdoor space with exciting accessories.
Begin by inviting their friends over for an outdoor movie night! Ann O’Blenes, Broker-Associate with Performance Partners Group at RE/Max Dallas Suburbs, suggests setting up outdoor movie screens or retractable televisions. To enhance the experience, consider installing audio speakers throughout the yard to create a cinematic soundscape. “The more inviting and comfortable your outdoor entertainment setup, the better,” she notes. For added comfort in the heat, outdoor misters can keep the kids refreshed while they enjoy the movie. “In the sweltering Texas summers, they significantly enhance the enjoyment of being outside,” O’Blenes adds.
Do your kids always seem to be hungry?
Consider cooking pizzas outdoors using an outdoor pizza oven. Pat Wilson, the Manager at Ed Kellum & Son in Dallas, observes that these ovens are gaining popularity. “They come in built-in models with chimneys or counter-top versions.” And, to quench their thirst, provide kids with refreshing Icee-like drinks from your personal sonic ice machine. Wilson mentions that some machines can create various ice types suitable for different beverages, from cubes to unique top hat shapes.
A trending item is a built-in food and drink holder designed for outdoor kitchens. This innovation features a drainable ice trough as well as compartments for refreshments, fruits, and snacks, making it convenient for serving children.
For the adults, O’Blenes recommends portable or built-in fire pits that require minimal space yet serve as a cozy alternative to traditional fireplaces. She also suggests investing in a mosquito misting system, especially considering the risk from the Zika Virus. “These systems have jets that disperse a natural solution that eliminates mosquitoes. Just activate it before your guests arrive for a pest-free gathering,” she explains, adding that she believes this technology will become increasingly popular.
Are you planning to serve beverages to the adults?
Single and dual beer taps have become a popular addition for outdoor entertaining. “Some can be portable, featuring wheels for easy storage in the winter months,” Wilson notes. Margarita machines and other drink-making devices are also making waves, and for avid outdoor enthusiasts, the latest trend includes the installation of artificial grass, especially designed for creating a putting green.
The options for gadgets and accessories that can help you craft the backyard of your dreams and attract guests of all ages are virtually endless. After all, who wouldn’t want the most exciting backyard in the neighborhood?
