You don't mention a budget, but have you considered a Gazebo? Landlord/Property Management might not permit it, so you'd have to check. It would make a good place for a gathering, even if rainy.
A 10' x 10' unit would cover a lot of the yard, leaving less to landscape, maintain and water. You might even be able to add gutters and collect rain water from it.
A 10' x 10' unit would cover a lot of the yard, leaving less to landscape, maintain and water. You might even be able to add gutters and collect rain water from it.