Creating a Family-Friendly Outdoor Space on a Budget

Do you want to turn your backyard into family friendly space?

We all want an attractive outdoor space. Somewhere the kids can play safely. Where you can have summer barbecues. And gather to enjoy the evening together.

But…

It can seem impossible to think your yard can match those designs. Until you realise that you don't have to do everything at once.

With a little planning, there are some tried-and-tested upgrades families love. Some you might not have considered but which make a surprisingly big difference. And they don't have to cost much either.

Let's dig in!

What You'll Learn:

• Why Families Should Make The Most Of Outdoor Space
• Budget Friendly Upgrades with Big Impact
• Why You Need Outside Power Socket Installation
• Safety shouldn't be overlooked when creating a family friendly outdoor space
• Easy Ways to Zone Your Garden

Why Families Should Make The Most Of Outdoor Space

Statistics reveal that a massive 82% of homeowners under utilise their outdoor living space.

Think about that…

For many families, the backyard is a forgotten room. Yet there's no reason why precious time relaxing and spending quality family time together has to take place inside.

Children love to play outdoors. Parents want somewhere enjoyable to unwind. And as a family you can use outdoor spaces for dining and entertaining friends.

Improving outdoor rooms doesn't have to cost a fortune. In fact, by starting small and spreading the cost over time, you can easily prioritise improvements your family really needs.

What's more, you'll use your outdoor space more if it's upgraded.

Recent studies show 94% of homeowners said they would spend more time outside if they upgraded their decks, patios and porches.

That's a compelling reason to make at least small improvements. Your outdoor area won't need revamping in one weekend. Prioritising changes gives you an excuse to enjoy the space while you plan and budget for what's next.

Budget Friendly Upgrades with Big Impact

Before you start spending big on a new landscaped garden, think about what your family will actually use. The best outdoor upgrades revolve around 3 concepts: comfort, usability and safety.

Let there be light

Outdoor lighting is one of the best improvements to make. Well-placed lights allow you to use the garden long after sunset. It also means kids can play outside safely later into the evening.

But…

Light requires electricity and that means external power socket installation.

Having the correct electrical set up in your garden allows you to entertain inside out. From string-lights and security lamps. To powering sound systems to keep the party going.

The cost to install outside electrical socket is negligible when you consider how much it opens up your options.

With outside power sockets your family can:

• Run outdoor heating for cool evenings
• Power music for backyard parties
• Light up the garden for Christmas
• Charge mobile phones outside

Why You Need Outside Power Socket Installation

Outdoor heaters keep you warm in spring and autumn.

Sound systems are great for parties.

Lighting provides security and enables kids to enjoy the garden after dark.

All of these improvements require external power socket installation.

Your garden is an extension of your home.

Don't be caught out when the kids want to blast music, or you'd like to light up the space for evening dining.

Inside sockets aren't designed to be used outdoors. Rain, mud and outdoor usage take their toll.

Get some summer-ready by investing in some outdoor sockets today.

Outdoor heating, lighting and entertainment allow you to enjoy time outside as a family all year round. Don't let the lack of electricity put you off making the most of outdoors.

Play areas

Children love being outside. They should definitely have space to play in your garden. But that doesn't mean your backyard needs to look like a kid's playground!

Try to keep play equipment tucked away in its own zone. That way you can fill the rest of your garden with furniture for eating and relaxing outdoors.

It's also sensible to keep ball games to certain areas. Nobody wants to sit down with shattered crockery every time the football (or child!) misses the fence.

Safety shouldn't be overlooked when creating a family friendly outdoor space

Safety is paramount when you have young children or pets. Securing your garden might not be the most glamorous upgrade. But it is something you should tackle first.

Fencing

It's often said that fencing is optional. It's your choice if you want to keep your garden private.

But if you have young kids or pets fencing is mandatory. Your outdoors space will keep kids and pets safely inside.

Install a fence tall enough children can't climb over. With gates that have child-proof latches.

Check for any gaps a small child (or pet) could squeeze through.

Ground surfaces

Soft surfaces to land on is incredibly important when you have children.

Fallings happen. That's how kids learn to climb.

Here are my top surfaces to help protect them when they take a tumble:

• Rubber matting is great under swing sets and climbing frames
• Bark mulch is ideal for created playground areas
• Try to avoid concrete/slabs around play equipment

Electrical Safety

This brings us nicely back to outside power socket installation.

Any outdoor electrical work should be installed by a qualified electrician.

With this in mind, there are a few safety tips when using electricity outdoors:

• Your sockets should have weatherproof covers
• Circuits should be correctly protected
• Hide cables from water but away from where children play

Easy Ways to Zone Your Garden

Think of your outdoor space as a series of rooms. Instead of four walls, your rooms will have zones or functionalities.

Play room

If you have young children, sectioning-off an area for them to play will make your life easier.

Kids will stay contained. And you can ensure soft landing surfaces are kept where they're needed.

Food room

There's nothing like dining al-fresco with your family. Creating an area for outdoor dining is a must.

You'll want flat ground to safely pitch tables and chairs. And being close to your kitchen will make transporting food and drinks easier.

Bonus points if you have cover overhead. Shade in summer and protection from the rain means you can enjoy alfresco dining all year.

Chill out room

As adults we all need space to relax too!

This could be as simple as a lounge chair where you go and unwind.

Somewhere you can sit and sip coffee in the mornings. Or unwind with a cold beer after a long day.

Place your seating strategically and you'll barely want to go back inside.

Summary

So there you have it. Your backyard doesn't have to be a renovation project all completed in the 1 weekend.

Think of ways you can improve your outdoor room in small steps. And enjoy watching as your outdoor space becomes the family hangout it should be.

Remember safety comes first. Install a fence and ensure outdoor lighting is prioritised.

Next look at comfort and furniture. Beanbags aren't comfortable when you want to sit outside!

Finally, have fun with accessories. Planters and pergolas are great. But won't be used if the space isn't practical.
Make your backyard dream is possible. Prioritise upgrades that allow your family to enjoy time together outside.