Right, let’s talk orangery transformations! Yesterday, I was chatting with Bradley, a friend who’s just renovated his place, including adding a rather splendid orangery. I’m knee-deep in researching articles about home entertaining at the moment, and the possibilities are endless – from sophisticated cocktail soirees to fun family gatherings. I wanted to get his take on making an orangery the ultimate entertainment zone. His response? Pure gold!
“Listen,” he said, sinking into his rather plush sofa, “you can’t just have an orangery; you need to use it. And what better way than to turn it into a games room?”
He was onto something. I’d been so focused on elegant dinner parties and sophisticated soirees, I’d almost overlooked the sheer joy of a good, old-fashioned games night. And an orangery, with its light-filled space and connection to the outdoors, is the perfect setting.
The Orangery Games Room: A Blueprint for Fun
Bradley’s orangery game plan was simple, yet brilliant. It revolved around flexibility, accommodating different games and age ranges. The core principle: variety is the spice of life, especially when entertaining.
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Board Game Bonanza: Every good games room needs a decent selection of board games. Think classics like Monopoly and Scrabble for the traditionalists. But don’t forget strategy games like Ticket to Ride or Settlers of Catan. Bradley even suggested a dedicated board game storage unit, like a stylish shelving unit with drawers, to keep everything organized. The trick here is to consider all age groups, from elderly relatives to children.
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Card Shark Central: A decent poker set is essential, obviously. But also consider card games suitable for families, like Uno, Exploding Kittens, or even a simple pack of playing cards for rounds of Rummy or Hearts. A circular coffee table is an excellent addition for card playing, making it easier for everyone to reach the cards and snacks.
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The Big Guns: Pool and Foosball: This is where things get interesting. Bradley had opted for a slightly smaller-than-regulation pool table, which fit perfectly without overwhelming the space. He’d carefully considered the size and made sure there was enough room to move around the table comfortably. He’d also added a dartboard with a stylish backboard to protect the walls. These require more space but add a real wow factor and appeal to older children and adults.
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Creating the Atmosphere: Lighting is key. Dimmable lights are essential, allowing you to adjust the mood from bright and cheerful for board games to more subdued for a tense poker game. Bradley used a combination of overhead lighting, floor lamps, and fairy lights to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Comfortable seating is also crucial. Think armchairs, beanbags, and even a comfy sofa for those who just want to relax and watch the action. Consider adding a Bluetooth speaker for background music or to play a podcast during breaks.
Beyond Games: The Orangery as a Versatile Entertaining Hub
What struck me most about Bradley’s approach was how he designed the orangery to be more than just a games room. He’d created a multi-functional space that could easily adapt to different types of entertaining.
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Dinner Parties Reimagined: By adding a foldable dining table and some extra chairs, the orangery could easily be transformed into a beautiful dining space. Imagine enjoying a meal surrounded by lush greenery and natural light. Keep the decor simple and elegant, with neutral colours and natural materials. Think rustic wooden tables, linen tablecloths, and fresh flowers.
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Cocktail Hour Chic: With a few strategically placed bar stools and a well-stocked bar cart, the orangery becomes the perfect cocktail lounge. Add some stylish glassware, a cocktail shaker, and a few signature cocktail recipes, and you’re ready to impress your guests. A small fridge will also be useful for storing drinks and ice.
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Family Gatherings Haven: For family gatherings, the orangery becomes a relaxed and inviting space where everyone can come together. Add some comfortable seating, a coffee table, and a selection of toys and games for the kids. Consider using natural materials like wood and rattan to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
The Orangery Edge: Weaving it into Home Entertaining
The beauty of incorporating the orangery into your home entertaining is the seamless blend of indoor and outdoor space. It’s not just a room; it’s an experience. Imagine hosting a summer barbecue where guests can spill out onto the patio, enjoying the sunshine and fresh air. Or a winter cocktail party where everyone gathers inside, enjoying the warmth and ambiance of the orangery.
Bradley had added outdoor heaters for the cooler months allowing him to open up to the garden for a larger flow through area.
Remember, the goal is to create a welcoming and engaging environment that caters to guests of all ages. Flexibility, comfort, and a touch of personality are key. By thoughtfully designing the space and considering the different types of entertaining you enjoy, you can transform your orangery into the ultimate entertainment hub. It’s not just about the games; it’s about creating memories.
So, taking Bradley’s fantastic insights, an orangery is adaptable to create a relaxed, fun and engaging atmosphere, so that no matter the activity there is fun to be had for all.
