Reimagining outdoor space for summer
Author: Grace Willcocks
Amazing news- this summer is going to be the summer of garden parties, so start booking some soirees in now! But what should you do to transform your currently neglected outside space into something inspiring and memorable? Well, you can start by treating the space like you were decorating an indoor room.
FURNITURE AND LAYOUT
Let’s start with the basics, invest in some good furniture! If you are on a tight budget, flea markets and antiques fairs have lots of pre-loved and stylish bargains available.
Clever furniture arrangement is all it takes to establish a variety of uses in one outdoor living space. For example, in a smaller space, place a bench and dining table closer to a corner to create a cosy nook without compromising the entire area. In a larger space, use different textures or rugs to break up and ‘zone’ dining and relaxing areas.
If you want to zone a small space in an urban setting whilst maintaining the serenity of a green space, we recommend using artificial grass.
LIGHTING
Lights will make any space cosy and comfortable. But as the sun sets, the correct lighting can also transform the smallest spaces into something romantic and magical. Weather proof lanterns and candle holders available in most garden centres can set the scene, and outdoor fairy lights draped through branches above a seating area create an inviting space. Investigate your options for LED powered lights that activate as it starts to get dark, so you can sit back and sip a drink as they light up.
ACCESSORIES AND TEXTILES
Accessorising your furniture with cushions will not only add an extra dimension to wooden, metal or all-weather ‘Rattan’ furniture, it will also give you a level of comfort more akin to sitting in your living room than out in the open air.
For smaller gardens with limited outdoor space, cushions are great for creating a less formal, alternative seating area – just spread a large throws or rugs on the ground (make sure you place waterproof material underneath to prevent any damp patches), then ramp up the comfort with a pile of cushions. A basket can be filled with extra pillows or throws, and provide decoration when not in use.
You can use textiles and coloured glass vases throughout your scheme to add little pops of colour and detail, or why not add some unique coloured sculptures to the same effect?
PLANTS
Potted plants add freshness and vibrancy without having to do any ground gardening. Use potted plants to create soft walls and partitions around the seating area to add a sense of intimacy.
For a modern look, plant similar plants of the same size in the same pot, or for a more country or cottagey look, go for various sized pots and planting – this will also add warmth and texture.
Small vases and containers are a good way to add artful accents to outdoor living spaces, either on side tables or dining areas. Here, the mini pots can be set at individual places for a more formal outdoor gathering.
Make an impact by adding a living wall on trellising to the side of an external wall, ideally near your seating area. This really creates a cosy and luxurious feel, reminiscent of holidays in the Mediterranean. If you are concerned about the upkeep, artificial living wall tiles are available and incredibly easy to apply.
CREATE SOME DRAMA
Who doesn’t love an open fire? A fire pit adds warmth in the evenings while creating a focal point for more relaxed entertaining, it can also extend the use of the garden into the colder months. If you also want something practical, get yourself a pizza oven to keep your guests fed as well as warm.
Small accents do wonders to make outdoor living spaces feel dynamic and interesting. Scour architectural salvage shops for castoffs that lend visual appeal without being too expensive.