If lockdown taught us anything, it’s that having an outdoor space really is a life-saver. While that extra room may be weather-dependent (seriously May, can you be any wetter?) having an area to chill with friends and family means you have more options when it comes to coffee and a catch up or night time cocktails.
In fact, a recent report by the National Garden Scheme revealed more than 85% of those surveyed said they were now using their gardens more, with many saying having space outside helped to relieve stress. So, despite the recent lifting of many restrictions, the trend for entertaining outdoors is one that’s not going anywhere soon, and making a covetable, cosy area where you can all kick back and relax is key.
SET THE MOOD WITH LIGHTING
Create the perfect night-time ambiance
Pinterest searches for solar light crafts increased by 427% last year as more and more of us looked for inspiration to sparkle. Whether you’re glamming up a balcony, courtyard or terrace, create the perfect night-time ambiance with festoons, solar lanterns and candles. Online brand Lights4Fun offers collections inspired by the four corners of the globe, with Moroccan designs and vibrant Mediterranean touches.
Image: Connectable Fairy Lights | Lights4fun.co.uk
CREATE A COMFORTABLE SPACE
If you’re short on chairs then opt for oversized floor cushions and rugs
Ensure you have a clearly defined seating area and it’ll feel more like an area you can relax in (yes, my advice is to hide the wheelie bins if you can); and if you’re short on chairs then opt for oversized floor cushions and rugs. When it comes to decking out your garden, Homesense always has a host of treasures that inject an instant splash of style. Stock is ever-changing but expect statement benches, rattan chairs, on-trend planters and textiles galore.
Image: Homepage | Homesense
GO WITH THE BOHO VIBE
layer up with rugs, throws and sheepskins
If you’re a lover of all things Boho indoors then use your styling skills to the max with Boho outdoors. George at Asda has a range of great-value, great-looking outdoor furniture that tick all the trend boxes. All you need to do is layer up with rugs, throws and sheepskins in statement monochrome. You can even tie in your planting scheme with ferns, grasses and bamboo.
Garden Furniture | Garden Tables & Chairs | George at ASDA
AND IF YOU LOVE COLOUR
For the bold and beautiful, plump for brightly coloured outdoor accessories
For the bold and beautiful, plump for brightly coloured outdoor accessories that will brighten up even the greyest summer days. If you’re feeling fruity Matalan has injected lots of fun into its summer range – there’s watermelon cushions, fruit print seat pads and even a beach-ready garden gnome!
Image: Outdoor & Garden Accessories – Matalan
SMALL SPACE, BIG PERSONALITY
Pack plenty of punch with playful cushions, colourful pots and a string or two of fairy lights
Even if you only have a small outdoor space, you can still pack plenty of punch with playful cushions, colourful pots and a string or two of fairy lights. If you’ve not yet discovered the homewares aisles in B&M then you’re in for a treat – you can stock up on everything you need (and a few bits you didn’t know you needed, obvs). Check out the Babylon Garden collection for style on a budget.
Image: Babylon Garden Decor | Garden Home Decor | B&M Stores (bmstores.co.uk)
