Creating a great outdoor beer garden or courtyard is no longer just an afterthought for hospitality venues. These spaces have become essential for attracting patrons who want fresh air, relaxed socialising, and an experience that feels welcoming year-round. Whether you’re planning a new build or refreshing an existing space, thoughtful design plays a crucial role in how guests use and enjoy the area. Early decisions—such as choosing durable seating, selecting the right outdoor bar tables, and planning functional layouts—can significantly enhance the atmosphere. 

Below are key design considerations that will help you craft an outdoor beer garden or courtyard that feels inviting, comfortable, and commercially effective.  

Prioritise Comfort and Practicality 

Outdoor spaces must balance aesthetics with durability. Furniture, plants, lighting, and flooring materials all face the elements, so investing in quality is essential. Choose weather-resistant seating, strong tabletops that won’t warp, and finishes that stand up to sun, rain, and heavy foot traffic

Comfort should be equally important. Patrons who feel relaxed will stay longer, spend more, and return more often. Cushioned seating, shaded areas, and wind protection can all extend the usability of the space well beyond summer evenings. 

Create Multiple Zones for Different Groups  

One of the most effective design strategies is to break the space into distinct zones. This helps manage crowd flow, reduces noise, and creates an environment that suits a wide variety of guest types.  

Consider: 

• High-top areas for quick drinks 

• Lounge-style seating for relaxed gatherings 

• Dining zones for groups who want meals 

• Cosier nooks with bench seating or fire pits 

Zoning also helps you cater to different capacities at different times of the day. Families, couples, after-work crowds, and weekend drinkers all appreciate having a spot that feels right for the occasion. 

Maximise Natural Shade and Weather Protection  

Australian weather can be unpredictable, so smart shading is essential. Pergolas, umbrellas, awnings, and shade sails all offer protection from both harsh sun and light rain.
 For colder months, consider installing: 

• Gas or electric outdoor heaters 

• Windbreak screens 

• Fire pits or fireplaces 

• Blankets for a cosy touch 

 The goal is year-round accessibility. A well-designed beer garden shouldn’t only be enjoyable on perfect spring days—it should be comfortable no matter the season. 

Use Greenery to Set the Mood 

Plants instantly soften hard surfaces and add a sense of calm. A good landscape mix can help define zones, add visual interest, and contribute to a more immersive outdoor experience. 

Try incorporating: 

• Potted citrus trees or olive trees 

• Vertical gardens along brick or timber walls 

• Aromatic herbs like rosemary or lavender 

• Native plants that require low maintenance 

• Creeping vines around pergola structures 

Lush greenery not only enhances aesthetics but can also help with noise control and privacy. 

Choose Functional, Flexible Furniture 

Outdoor hospitality furniture should take the lead from the venue’s brand while also being incredibly practical. Opt for pieces that are easy to clean, easy to move, and strong enough to handle heavy use

Modular seating can be reconfigured as needed, while stackable chairs help with fast pack-downs. Choose tabletops that are large enough for drinks and shared plates but not so big that they dominate the space.  

Durability, comfort, and flexibility should always guide your selections. 

Incorporate Warm, Layered Lighting 

Lighting sets the mood from the moment the sun goes down. Outdoor beer gardens benefit from layered lighting that blends ambiance with safety. 

Consider including: 

• Fairy lights or festoon lighting overhead 

• LED pathway lighting 

• Warm wall sconces or lantern-style fixtures 

• Soft uplighting for trees and greenery 

• Candles or battery-operated table lanterns 

Avoid harsh, white lighting. Warm tones naturally create a more inviting atmosphere and make the space feel cohesive and intimate.  

Blend Indoor and Outdoor Experiences 

Guests appreciate continuity when moving between indoor and outdoor areas. Consistency in colour tones, materials, and furnishing styles can make the courtyard feel like an extension of the venue, rather than an afterthought. Glass doors, matching textures, and seamless flooring transitions can all help unify the space.  

If your indoor section is lively and energetic, carry that personality outdoors through bold colours or statement pieces. If your venue leans more rustic or refined, reflect that through timber, stone, or minimalist design choices. 

Introduce Unique Focal Points  

A standout feature can transform an ordinary courtyard into a memorable destination. Consider adding something that sparks curiosity, creates visual interest, or becomes an Instagram-worthy moment. 

Ideas include: 

• A feature wall or mural 

• A custom outdoor bar 

• A fire pit seating circle 

• A sculptural planter 

• A water feature 

• A canopy of festoon lights 

Focal points also help with wayfinding and encourage guests to explore the space. 

Make the Space Easy to Navigate 

The best outdoor beer gardens feel open, intuitive, and uncluttered. Ensure walkways are wide enough for staff carrying trays and for guests who move around frequently. Arrange furniture in a way that feels natural, avoids bottlenecks, and directs foot traffic smoothly. Signage, lighting, and clear visual cues all play a part in making the layout user-friendly, especially for larger venues. 

Whether you’re designing a courtyard for a bustling pub, a local brewery, or a restaurant that wants to enhance its outdoor offering, thoughtful design is everything  

With the right combination of high-quality materials, clever zoning, lush greenery, effective lighting, and adaptable furnishings, you can create a beer garden that feels welcoming, functional, and memorable all year round. By investing in comfort and atmosphere, you’re not just elevating the guest experience… you’re building a space people will want to return to again and again.