How to Create a Backyard Entertaining Area with Timber Furniture
When summer hits New Zealand, nothing beats hanging out with your loved ones in your backyard. From sunny afternoon meals to laid-back nights around the fire pit, your outdoor space turns into another room of your house. At its core? Top-notch timber furniture that's comfy, long-lasting, and eye-catching.
This guide shows you how to create an outdoor dining or lounge area using timber furniture—perfect for NZ backyards of any size or shape. We'll focus on Plankville's handmade items to help you make the most of your outdoor space.
The Benefits of Timber Furniture for NZ Outdoor Areas
New Zealand's climate, while beautiful, can take a toll on outdoor furniture. That's why picking quality wood matters so much. Unlike plastic or cheap metal options, wood gets better with age, weathers , and fits in with the textures of our native landscapes. At Plankville, every piece has a purpose—from big slab dining tables to comfy wooden benches.
Wood also brings a natural warmth to your space. It doesn't feel cold or sterile. Instead, it adds an earthy grounded feel that matches the relaxed Kiwi way of life.
Step One: Figure Out What You Want from Your Outdoor Space
The best backyard setups begin with a clear goal. You need to decide: Are you making a social spot for dinner gatherings? A peaceful area for weekend rest? Or a space that serves both eating and relaxing?
After you set the purpose, the layout starts to take shape. For example, if you enjoy hosting outdoor events, you'll need a sturdy dining table—perhaps a live-edge slab table from Plankville. If you want to focus on relaxation then a wooden daybed or -made outdoor couch becomes the main feature.
Step Two: Design the Space Flow
Picture your outdoor space as a room without walls. It still needs to flow between areas. Many people like to split the space into zones—one to eat in, another to relax in, maybe a small spot for the grill or bar.
Use wooden furniture to ground each zone . A sturdy outdoor dining table marks the eating area. A couple of flat coffee tables and seats can set up a lounge. Low furniture helps keep views open making the area seem bigger.
Hardscaping also helps. Use timber decking, pebbles, or pavers to mark boundaries . If you have a lawn, Plankville's freestanding timber benches look great without needing fixed foundations.
Step Three: Choose Materials That Last
Plankville gets native and reclaimed timber perfect for outdoor use. These include macrocarpa, cedar, and other New Zealand-grown species known to be durable.
Unlike mass-produced furniture, handcrafted timber pieces can stand up to NZ's changing weather—from UV exposure to rain and coastal conditions. With regular oiling and basic care, your Plankville pieces will last for decades—and often look better as they age.
Need some ideas? Check out the Plankville gallery to see completed custom setups and learn how Kiwi homeowners are decorating their areas.
Step Four: Add Layers for Comfort and Style
After you've placed your timber furniture, it's time to make the space cozier. Add layers with outdoor pillows, blankets, and rugs to create texture and comfort. Pick colors that either match the warm tones of the timber or stand out—like deep blues, natural greens, or bright whites.
Don't forget about lighting. Consider hanging string lights above where you eat, putting solar lanterns near the lounge area, or even adding a fire pit in the middle to create a stunning centerpiece. These touches make it easier to use your space at night and make it more versatile.
Don't forget the plants—container greenery and native shrubs help your space blend with the surrounding garden.
Step Five: Add Your Personal Touch
Include items that show who you are. Timber furniture gives you a blank slate to express your style—be it coastal, rustic, modern, or boho.
Love to cook? Think about adding a timber prep bench or serving station next to your BBQ area.
Enjoy a good book? Set up a cozy spot with a custom timber daybed under a pergola.
Like to entertain? Put in a built-in timber bar or high stools for casual drinks.
With Plankville's custom approach, your furniture doesn't just work—it becomes your home's character. Check out custom timber furniture choices here.
Your Backyard Setup: Beyond Just Furniture
Setting up a backyard hangout spot with timber furniture goes beyond decoration—it shapes your lifestyle. It means making room to relax, bond with others, and soak in the natural beauty that surrounds us in NZ.
No matter if you call the city, coast, or countryside home, timber furniture helps turn your outdoor space into something special. And when you pick Plankville's made, eco-friendly timber pieces, you're buying quality that stands the test of time.
Conclusion
A well-planned backyard continues to delight—when combined with custom-made timber furniture from Plankville. Your outdoor area should mirror your way of life and principles, whether you host friends or savor a peaceful morning brew.
If you want to upgrade your backyard setup in NZ natural timber offers the best starting point. Find more ideas and handmade pieces at Plankville.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
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Macrocarpa, cedar, and other NZ native woods resist weather making them perfect for outdoor furnishings.
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Yes, oiling or sealing helps extend the lifespan and look of timber in New Zealand's climate.
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Plankville's high-quality timber furniture can handle New Zealand conditions. Still, using covers and maintaining it is advised to make it last longer.
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Concentrate on timber pieces that serve multiple purposes, like benches with storage or compact dining sets. Use rugs or planters to create visual zones.
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Of course. Plankville crafts custom furniture to fit your measurements, taste, and requirements.
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Yes—woods like macrocarpa can stand up to salty air . Adding custom sealant gives extra shielding for houses by the beach.
