Designing the Perfect Summer Outdoor Entertainment Experience

Designing the Perfect Summer Outdoor Entertainment Experience.

By Ryan Honey

Whether you’re on the shores of Lake Burton or nestled in the mountains of Cashiers, summer brings Mountain living to life. Porches, patios, docks, and lawns become the heart of the home. For homeowners, creating inviting, functional outdoor spaces is about more than furniture or landscaping—it’s about curating experiences that support everything from casual breakfasts and cookouts to elegant evening gatherings. Today’s home technology blends quietly into the environment, enriching the setting without disruption.

A prime example of this integration is the lakefront boathouse. On the upper sundeck, a weatherproof outdoor-rated TV is paired with a premium soundbar or in-ceiling speakers, with the option of a subwoofer for added depth on movie nights or game days. Below, at dock level, discreet speakers fill the swim and lounge zones with music, while weatherproof Ring cameras monitor boat slips and water areas—providing peace of mind without cluttering the view. At night, landscape lighting traces the path to the boathouse, continues along the seawall and dock, and casts subtle, ever-shifting reflections across the lake. The result is equal parts ambiance and safety—ensuring no one stumbles near the water after dark.

Reliable connectivity is the backbone of these experiences. In a detached building like this, the best option is to run a fiber optic cable from the main house to the boathouse in conduit, safeguarding against electrical surges and keeping the entire network unified. The payoff is flawless streaming, seamless control, and zero frustration from signal drop-offs.

Quality audio remains central to outdoor enjoyment. Rugged, weather-resistant speakers can be tucked into flower beds, mounted under soffits, or integrated into decking or hardscapes. These systems deliver clean, full sound across broad areas, adding comfort and atmosphere without calling attention to themselves. Whether hosting a celebration or enjoying a quiet morning coffee, reliable & convenient outdoor audio sets the tone.

Lighting plays a vital role as well. Step lights, up-lights, and low-profile fixtures enhance both beauty and usability. A thoughtfully lit path to the dock doesn’t just look elegant—it provides crucial visibility for guests unfamiliar with the terrain. Lighting scenes can be automated or adjusted remotely, changing the mood at a moment’s notice.

Most importantly, all these systems—audio, video, lighting, and security—are designed to work together. There’s no need to juggle remotes or apps. Instead, utilize “scenes” based on how your family actually uses the space. Whether it's “Entertaining Lakeside” “Good Morning” or “Evening Wind-Down,” a single tap brings it all to life.

At SoulCraft Systems, we help homeowners design outdoor environments that are as intelligent as they are enjoyable. From unified networking across your property and reliable audio to elegant lighting and discreet surveillance, we create systems that reflect how people live—then make them effortless to use.

Summer is the perfect time to elevate your Outdoor Experience. Visit www.soulcraftsystems.com or call (706) 982-1711 to schedule a consultation.