Weekends from here on out will be spent mostly outside - BBQ dinner parties with friends, long lazy afternoons in the hammock, lounging on the deck with a good book - in other words, the good life! 

After an absolutely stunning weekend here in beachside Mount Maunganui, we've started planning a few 'To Do's' for our back yard. These ideas caught our eye...

We've all heard of a feature wall inside, but how about outdoors? It's a quick and easy way to re-invent your outdoor living space this summer. Not sure what shade to choose? A colour that matches a piece of your outdoor furniture or outdoor cushions might be a good start. This hot pink is a bold move - we'd probably go for a high-summer yellow or a Mediterranean teal.

This is a cute idea for plant markers. A few clean and smooth river stones, a white marker and a bit of creativity - crafty but (if you keep the design simple) quite chic!

For design-lovers like us, this beats the traditional BBQ any day! Sleek and stylish, yes please.

If a garden is a luxury you don't have (or you just want your herbs in easy reach), vintage jars make cool little herb planters. Keep them on your deck or back porch, or on a sunny windowsill inside. The trick is to put a few inches of stones or broken terracotta pieces in the bottom (to serve as a filter for water), before you add your soil. 

The humble barbequed snag or steak takes on a whole new lease of life with a hit of homemade smokey BBQ sauce. Especially a Bourbon Whiskey-spiked recipe!  Cook up a big batch of it and store in vintage jars - add a pastry brush and tie with ribbon for a unique Christmas gift. 

If you're looking for a simple way to turn a deck or outside area into a true 'outdoor room', add a rug underneath your outdoor furniture. It instantly creates a defined sense of space.

Whether it's for a special summertime event at your place, or 'just because', paper lanterns are an affordable way to add fun and flair to an outside space. You could choose a palette of bright beachy colours, or go all white for a more understated look.

Want to really treat yourself and the family this summer?
A Lujo designer hammock is the ultimate accessory for outdoor lounging!