Well-designed outdoor spaces can be like an additional room of your house. They can provide a place for you and your family to relax and can be integral when you throw get-togethers or summer parties. Whether you are starting a deck, patio or porch from scratch or are updating one you already have, these three tips will have you entertaining people in style during the day or evening.

Create Flow from the Indoors

By creating flow in your plans, you can let your party guests know where to go while eliminating congestion. Consider using sliding or French doors to open up your home to the outdoors. Lay down formal walkways throughout your backyard to allow guests to see your landscaping and to lead to other parts of the entertaining areas. Choose materials and colors that mimic the styles of the interior of the home to help guests feel that the …