There’s one space in our Brooklyn house that I’ve never shared on Cup of Jo…

Our back garden! It’s always been a little oasis, but we used to have knock-around used furniture that wasn’t very photo-worthy. This summer, however, I was excited to spend long evenings with friends and host game nights for preteens. So, we gave the space a makeover, with the help of Article, the fantastic furniture brand we’ve loved and used in our home for more than a decade. Here’s a look, if you’d like to see.

Table: Sarek Dining Table in Khaki Green. Chairs: Sarek Stackable Armchairs in Taupe.

I moved to New York when I was 22, and none of my previous apartments had an outdoor space; we feel really lucky to have this garden. My goal was to create a welcoming place to hang out, so I was thrilled to find this table — how pretty is the sage green? It’s the perfect size for six adults, plus maybe a few babies on laps. The slatted chairs look great with the table, and I like that they have arms for relaxing after eating.

Dining table: Sarek. Napkins: Heather Taylor Home. Tray: Fog Linen, similar. Striped bowl: Chloe May Brown.

When hosting friends, I’ve found that simple food is key. The entrance to the garden is off my bedroom, and it’s a hassle running back and forth from the kitchen. So, my go-to spread comprises cheese, fruit, kettle chips and green olives. I especially love cherries — growing up in Michigan, my family always took bags of them on summer road trips. And since people usually crave something salty with a glass of wine, I set out a bowl of briny Castelvetrano olives.

Do you have any entertaining tips? When people first arrive, I sometimes kickstart a group conversation by tossing out an easy question, like, “What’s one of your favorite places you’ve visited?” or “What’s your most rewatchable movie”? (Here’s my answer.)

Sectional: Lubek in Slate Gray. Coffee table: Lubek in Tuscan Brown.

When we were trying to decide how to use the space, the boys threw out big ideas like, “What about a hot tub?!” and “Let’s get a trampoline!” Even though we went for a chill vibe instead, they still love sprawling out on this cushy sectional. Its low-slung profile makes it so easy to sink into. The modular design means it can be rearranged (or even added to) in the future. Wouldn’t it make a cozy conversation area if you faced the two pieces toward one another?

Sectional: Lubek in Slate Gray. Coffee table: Lubek in Tuscan Brown.

And how beautiful is this coffee table? On days when I’m craving alone time, I sneak out here, put my feet up, and listen to the Cup of Jo covers playlist. The table is also substantial enough for a stack of magazines and my favorite party snack.

Article makes it easy to bring together a modern outdoor (or indoor) space. I’m excited to spend time here, and Article’s pieces are durable and easy to live with. (We actually had this living room sofa for many years.) You can find all their outdoor furniture here. What are your secrets for creating an inviting space?

P.S. Our full home tour, if you’d like to see. Thank you for reading!

(Photos by Julia Robbs, styling by Veronica Olson. This post is sponsored by Article, a company we’ve used and loved in our homes for years. Thank you for supporting the brands that support Cup of Jo.)