Making your home a summer entertaining haven

(StatePoint) In warm weather, everything is better done outdoors -- from eating meals to entertaining guests.

In fact, 88 percent of homeowners taking on landscaping projects upgrade outdoor living elements, such as furniture and heating features, to make spending time outside more comfortable, according to the Houzz 2018 Landscaping Survey.

To make your home the ultimate summer hangout, consider these simple projects to transform outdoor spaces:

Add ‘Living Room’ Touches

Create a flawless outdoor retreat with comfortable lounge chairs and all-weather sectionals that look like they belong inside. Go all out with color and bold furnishings -- shades of magenta and teal go perfectly with nature’s green elements. However, if you prefer neutrals, up the design factor with bright planters and accent pieces or hang vibrant tiled artwork that can withstand the elements. If you have an indoor patio or pergola, hanging decorative curtains provides style, shade and privacy. Finalize the space with cushioned floor seats and activities, like board games and books, for the ultimate entertaining destination.

Include a Beverage Station

Have refreshments nearby with fun serving ware and a bar cart stocked with cocktail fixings -- ice, lemons, olives, water and soda -- along with fruit juices and colorful sugar to rim glasses so even the kids can get in on the merriment. Add pretty-patterned glassware, umbrella stir sticks and a cocktail shaker to get the party started.

Refresh Common Areas

Guests will access your home’s entryway and powder room. Spruce up these spaces with a fresh coat of paint or by simply repainting the trim a crisp white. This can completely transform your home, making it look brighter and feel larger. With the right tools, you can pull off this impactful project with ease. To bring the elements of summer into your home, include accents like colorful throw rugs, fresh flowers and greenery.

Go Green

Create a peaceful sanctuary outdoors with fresh flowers and greenery. If you don’t have a green thumb, display low-maintenance verbena, lavender and decorative grasses in attractive pots. If you have minimal space, opt for a wall-mounted garden to add life and texture without creating a footprint. An effortless way to do this is to repurpose an old wooden ladder and secure it to a wall. Succulents and herbs are easy to tend to and kids will love having a summer project to upkeep. Plus, nothing will impress guests more than clipping fresh herbs during your next cookout.