(BPT) - Spring is almost here! The rising temperatures serve as a reminder that it's time to start preparing for outdoor entertaining. Whether you are looking to completely revamp your setup or simply add a few upgrades, there are many ways to make your yard feel larger, more comfortable and more useful, no matter the time of day.

Here are eight simple upgrades to get the most out of your patio:

1. Join the Outdoors with the Indoors

Create an area that acts as a gateway between your home and the outdoors. Using similar colors, textures and themes enhances the flow of your yard and creates an inviting atmosphere. A patio provides an excellent opportunity to blend indoor and outdoor living. You don't need to limit mealtimes to your kitchen table; instead, you can explore dining alfresco no matter the time of day.

2. Make the Outdoor Dining Table Your Focal Point

The patio table is one of the most important aspects of your yard, and it should be the center of attention. You can invest in affordable furniture or make simple upgrades to your current space by purchasing paint and other accessories at Lowe's. Pair stylish tableware with cozy seating arrangements to create a warm ambiance. Whether you choose to enjoy a breakfast feast as the sun rises or host a dinner party for friends, your patio should serve as a gathering place where the whole crew is invited.

3. Invest in Pieces with Multiple Functions

Invest in versatile furniture and appliances to get the most out of outdoor entertaining without taking up too much valuable floorspace. A modular cooking system like the Charbroil^® Commercial Series™ Grill & Griddle Combo can help you save space without having to settle for just one thing. You can unlock endless flavor possibilities and effortlessly swap surfaces to cook any meal, any time.

4. Create Sections to Divide Your Space

Build out different sections to divide your space and create intimate gathering spots for you and your guests. Rugs, tables and eclectic seating arrangements can help establish a flow and create designated spaces for your living and dining.

5. Go Bold with Color

Gone are the days of grays and beiges; now, you can try experimenting with bold hues. From bright furniture pieces to vibrant accessories, infusing bold colors can instantly revitalize your outdoor area, creating a dynamic and inviting atmosphere for entertaining.

6. Experiment with Organic Materials and Textures

Incorporating natural textures, such as wood and stone, into your outdoor decor not only adds a touch of authenticity but also creates a connection with nature, fostering a serene and inviting ambiance for outdoor activities and relaxation.

7. Play with Outdoor Lighting

Don't hold out on outdoor lighting! Explore different options and combinations of lighting solutions like fire pits, torches and string lights to create ambiance, light pathways and generate warmth on cooler nights.

8. Embrace Native Plants

Your garden can foster biodiversity through a diverse selection of native flowers and plants that attract pollinators. Create eye-catching and ecologically sustainable habitats that benefit both wildlife and the environment while adding pops of color to your yard.

Once your outdoor space feels like home, you can start to invite the whole crew over to enjoy it with you over a delicious meal. Explore some of these tasty recipes from Charbroil that you can prepare using the Commercial Series™ Grill & Griddle Combo:

Japanese Soufflé Pancakes: Simple to create yet sure to impress, these reimagined pancakes elevate familiar ingredients to the extraordinary. Each subtly sweet, custard-like bite is a cloud of culinary bliss, lifting breakfast, brunch or snack time to exhilarating, fluffy peaks of perfection.

Seared Ahi Tuna Bowl: Loaded with sesame-crusted tuna, sweet grilled pineapple, a punch of umami and the satisfying crunch of fresh veggies, this isn't just an incredible dish - it's a thing of beauty.

Grilled Banana Split: Undeniably sweet and rich in flavor, the banana split is a fan favorite for good reason. Grilling fruit brings amplified flavors and rich caramelization to the classic vanilla-ice-cream-and-chocolate-syrup-topped banana split.