How to create an outdoor living space
Over the last few years, we have all taken the time to make the most of our outdoor spaces. No matter how small or big, enjoying the smaller things in life, taking in those moments of peace and quiet for our well-being.
With a huge shift towards self-sufficiency, 40% of people have made those post-pandemic home improvements including our outdoor spaces. Following a surge in outdoor interior trends, here’s
Firstly, you want to think about what you are wanting to use the space for. Whether you are wanting to use the space to entertain friends, create another seating area where you can enjoy a movie or your new book or provide another eating area to seat guests on sunny evenings. Or if it’s all of the above you want to consider where your space gets the sunshine.
If you are wanting a seating area that gets the evening sunshine make sure you are creating your space in the south-facing area, that keeps the sunshine. Alternatively, if you are putting up a shelter, make sure it’s not where you get the most wind or bad ground when it rains.
The key to creating a stylish living space is to pick key pieces that can be featured inside your home as well. Blur the lines between indoor and outdoor furnishings to create your haven. Look at statement chairs and soft furnishings to make it a welcoming space that you will want to enjoy. The deck chairs from Business & Pleasure are a favourite, the brand creates stylish 50’s inspired beach furniture, complete with tassels and candy colours. If you have a big tree in your garden, have you through about a hammock they are always the perfect place to sit back and relax.
The details count, so build up on those accessories, vases, planters, rugs and statement features. DAY Birger Et Mikkelsen designs large statement vases that complement contemporary spaces and the Ferm Living planter's multipurpose design pairs up as both side tables or planters.
Consider some sort of cover, we are all aware of the unpredictable weather here in the UK. Always good to provide shelter if it rains or shade on a sunny day. If you want a permanent shelter, think about a pergola or if you want something more temporary, there are gorgeous tents or gazebos you can get in keeping with your theme.
Make it cosy with soft furnishings, these not only look good but just make you want to submerge yourself into them all day. There are so many small and large cushions that you can use on the chairs, rugs and benches to complete the look, pair up and mix match to give it a contemporary look.
If you have the space it’s always good to consider a fire pit to keep you warm when it goes cooler in the evening. Easy to maintain and giving off a lot of heat they bring the family together, why not enjoy some toasted marshmallows?
A minibar is always a fun edition and somewhere to enjoy a delicious Pim's in the comfort of your outdoor living space. It can be a small shelving space to keep some essentials or you can go the extra mile and create a full bar space. Depending on how well-lit up your garden is, consider fairy lights you can hang along your fences or under your shelter. There are also hanging lanterns you can feature or vases that you can put candles in. Adding a mirror is also a crafty way to give the illusion of more space.
Finally, make sure you consider the materials you are using. If you are looking for wood then acacia is a good option, historically used on ships it is very hard-wearing. If you prefer the rustic look of metal, aluminium is a light, long-lasting option which shouldn’t rust. Through the wetter months make sure you store away your soft furnishings away. They should be shower-proof so don’t worry if your cushions get caught out in the rain. Make sure to cover your furniture with a breathable outdoor cover throughout the winter so they last.
How to impact your well-being through Interior Design
Join us as we talk to the experts on how to impact your well being through interior design and why creating a healing home has become so important.
