Blog

 

 

1. Set the Stage with a Decking Area

 

 

Don’t ignore or neglect a deck. Decking is at the core of the features we discuss in this blog. If you already have a built deck, check it is regularly stained and sealed. A sealed deck will protect it from harsh weather environments, especially during winter.

 

If you don’t have a deck and would like one built, contact Hire A Hubby. Our Hubbies have the skill and know-how to assist you in achieving the perfect deck area. Finish the look with a Pergola or Gazebo for an eye-catching focal point.

 

 

 

 

2. Outdoor Bar

 

 

Stop dreaming about your perfect outdoor bar area and make it come true. There are plenty of ways to achieve the look – whatever the budget! Budget options include repurposing a potting bench to adding a few floating shelves to your pergola or decking area.

 

The Range (therange.co.uk) sells a ready-built Woodland Shiplap Garden Bar that comes as a flatpack blank canvas, allowing you to paint and decorate it to suit your style. Available to purchase from £645.99.

 

Homebase (homebase.co.uk) also offer a ready-to-buy Mercia Garden Bar. Available in flatpack and at the cheaper end of the market, from £382.50.

 

If you purchase an off-the-shelf garden bar, don’t forget Hire A Hubby can help you with the installation.

 

If you want something more bespoke, please liaise with your local Hubby. Our Hubbies are capable of assisting you throughout the process of installing an outdoor bar. We can help with flatpack installation to more complex work, adapting an existing shed or custom-building you a bar. Our franchisees’ carpentry services are to the highest standard.

 

 

The Basics

 

The basics of any bar include:

 

• Glasses
• Bottles
• Shelves
• Ice buckets
• Straws
• Paper napkins
• Spirit dispensers
• Cocktail shaker
• Chairs
• Work station
• Serving area

 

Make sure you have plenty of comfy seats or an outdoor sofa. Depending on the theme, inject lots of colour, blankets, pillows and any ornaments to suit the theme. Finish the look with outdoor lights or lanterns and a neon light bar sign. Additional options include adding a drinks fridge and ice maker.

 

 

Photos: provided by Hannah McFarlane: instagram.com/tropical_plant_addict

 

Looking for inspiration?

 

From a simple workstation to a themed bar – there are endless choices. You only need a little imagination. Here are some ideas.

 

• Tropicana Bar – Pink flamingos, pineapples and bold and bright colourful decorations.
• Tiki Bar – Bamboo, grass and rattan materials, palms and plants,  garden torches and a good bottle of Jamaican rum!
• Gin Bar –   Bunting, cocktail shaker, lemons, limes and fruit
• Pirate Bar – Ropes, sails and sea fairing objects including anchors, ship wheel, oak barrels

 

 

 

 

3. BBQ Area

 

 

If you love cooking and have the room, why not build an outdoor BBQ and dining area? It gives you extra space when entertaining family and friends.

 

What you’ll need:.

 

• Built-in gas grill
• Side burner
• Compact refrigerator
• Rubbish bin
• Storage cupboards, shelves or units

 

Additional options include:

 

• Griddle
• Smoker
• Pizza oven
• Wine cooler
• Sink
• Ice maker

 

For a year-round experience, cover your BBQ area with a Pergola or Gazebo. Bear in mind the safety aspect to ensure you have enough clearance. You do not want your BBQ area to become a fire hazard. Keep your grill area ventilated and away from low ceilings or built too close to your home. Never install cooking and cooling appliances together – they need ventilation due to the heat.

 

Give your guests the dining sensory overload by finishing the space by building planter boxes containing all your favourite herbs. The fragrant smells will compliment the BBQ aroma.

 

 

 

 

4. Trellis & Planter Boxes

 

 

Trellis and planter boxes will automatically transform your decking area as well as offer privacy. Block nosy neighbours and any unsightly views. It will make your deck a more comfortable environment.

 

 

 

 

5. New Turf

 

 

There is nothing like the look of a lovely new lawn, but laying new turf isn’t as simple as it may sound. You need to take care of some heavy lifting and remove the existing grass and any stones or weeds that have already taken root.

 

Grass is best laid in the spring or autumn months, when rain will help the new grass establish roots in time for the harsher environments of the sun in the summer or the frost in the winter.

 

Talk to your local Hubby if you would like assistance laying new turf.

 

Are you thinking of transforming your garden with artificial grass? Artificial grass is becoming more and more popular with home owners. It is affordable and gives your garden that perfect bold green colour all year round. It is a safe option for pets and children and requires little maintenance.

 

If you would like to install some new grass or are thinking about laying an artificial lawn, talk to your local Hire A Hubby for helpful advice and ideas, or why not book one of our Hubbies to come and inspect your garden and take care of it for you.

 

 

 

Hire A Hubby is here to help. Call us on 0800 111 4664 or click here for a free quote.

* Not all Hire A Hubby franchises offer all of the above services. Please liaise with your local Hire A Hubby franchisee when booking a job.