Ghana’s warm evenings are perfect for spending time outdoors. An outdoor living space turns your compound into an extra room for relaxing, entertaining guests and family gatherings. With good design, it can be comfortable in both the dry season and the rains.
These ideas cover decks, covered patios, seating, fire features, planting, paths and lighting. For lawns and planting basics, see our landscaping and outdoor lighting guide.
Create a defined outdoor room
The most inviting outdoor spaces feel like rooms. Use a deck, paving or a raised platform to define the area, and furnish it with seating, a table and lighting. Place it where you naturally want to sit, such as near the living room doors or in the shade of trees.
Decks and paving
Composite and treated timber decking give a warm, natural look and stay comfortable underfoot. Stone or concrete paving is durable and easy to clean. Whatever you choose, make sure water drains away quickly during heavy rain.
Shade and shelter
A pergola, canopy or covered patio protects seating from the afternoon sun and light rain, so the space is usable for more of the year. Slatted roofs give filtered shade, while solid roofs keep furniture dry.
Comfortable outdoor seating
- Choose weather-resistant furniture and fabrics that dry quickly.
- Add floor cushions and low seating for a relaxed lounge feel.
- Include a dining table if you entertain outdoors.
- Store cushions indoors during the rainy season.
Fire pits and water features
A fire pit gives the space a focal point for evening gatherings, while a small water feature adds a calming sound. Keep fire features away from overhanging trees and roof eaves, and always follow safe use and maintenance.
Tropical planting for Outdoor Living Space
Lush tropical planting suits Ghana’s climate and gives privacy. Banana plants, palms, heliconias and large-leaved shrubs create a green backdrop, while ground cover softens paths and edges. Group plants with similar water needs to make maintenance easier.
Paths and stepping stones
Stepping stones set in gravel or lawn guide visitors through the garden and protect the grass. Use larger slabs for main routes and keep paths wide enough for two people to walk side by side.
Garden lighting
Lighting makes outdoor spaces usable after dark and improves security. Combine path lights, uplights on trees, step lights on decks and soft lighting under canopies. Warm white light creates a welcoming atmosphere.
Outdoor kitchens and dining
An outdoor cooking area is ideal for grilling, family parties and heavy cooking that you prefer to keep outside the house. A covered counter with a sink, storage and space for a grill or gas cooker makes entertaining easier. Place the outdoor dining table nearby so food goes straight from grill to table.
Privacy and boundaries
Tall planting, slatted screens and climbing plants on walls create privacy without blocking airflow. Boundary walls can be softened with planting or painted in a colour that matches the house. Gates and entrances look more welcoming with lighting and a clear path.
Budgeting and phasing
- Start with the main structure: the deck or paving, drainage and lighting cables.
- Add shade, such as a pergola or canopy, in the next phase.
- Finish with furniture, planting and decor as the budget allows.
- Plan electrical points for lights and appliances at the start.
Frequently asked questions: Outdoor Living Space
What is the best decking material for Ghana?
Composite decking and well-treated hardwood both perform well. Composite needs less maintenance, while timber has a more natural feel but needs regular sealing.
Can an outdoor space be used in the rainy season?
Yes, with a covered area, good drainage and quick-drying furniture.
How do I keep an outdoor space low maintenance?
Use hardy local plants, mulched beds, durable paving and furniture that does not need covering. Automatic or solar lighting reduces daily effort.
Do you design outdoor spaces for businesses?
Yes. Hotels, restaurants, churches and offices benefit from outdoor seating areas, landscaped compounds and lighting for evening use.
Plan your outdoor living space
Pelmar Aesthetics designs and builds outdoor living spaces, landscaping and garden lighting in Kumasi and across Ghana. Visit our exterior design and landscaping service or book a site visit.