Summer is the time when we love to get out in our gardens and enjoy them before the harsh winter weather descends again. The perfect few months for relaxing and entertaining, summer makes us want to improve our outside living space to a place where we actively want to spend time. With a little effort and some clever design, your outdoor space can become a wonderful extension to your home. Here are some interesting ideas for making your garden more attractive and sociable:
Eating Al Fresco
If you have the space and some adequate shade, setting up a dining table in the garden and eating al fresco really makes the most of your space and the summer weather. You don’t need a new table, simply dress up an old table with a fresh linen, some flowers and a few candles and you’ll have a delightful setting for family gatherings.
Intimate Lighting
Continue enjoying your garden when the sun goes down with some clever lighting options. You can install dramatic feature lighting, soft cosy lighting or even just a string of fun fairy lights. Ensure that the option you choose is designed for outdoor use and if your power outlets are a little too far away, then solar lighting remains a great option for the summer months. One very effective look is to position an uplighter at the base of a tree, illuminating the branches to create a romantic yet dramatic look.
Create a focal point or feature
Having a main feature will not only look fantastic but will be a great talking point for your guests. It can be anything you fancy, from a relaxing, gentle water fountain, a vertical garden wall, some luxury outdoor furniture or even a stunning ornament like a Bronze Wildlife Sculpture. For more information, visit http://www.gillparker.com/
Lessen the inside/outside divide
The transition from the interior to the garden can be made more seamless by bringing inside accessories into the garden. French doors can be thrown wide open to create an easy thoroughfare and items such as rugs, cushions and side tables placed in the garden to make it a seamless transition and a natural extension of your living space.
Create a private space
Your social gatherings or time spent relaxing on your own will be much cosier if you incorporate elements that provide shelter, cover and feelings of warmth. Surround yourself with large potted plants, bamboo plants, a pergola with greenery allowed to grow over the top is a beautiful option, especially if you choose bright blooms like wisteria or bougainvillea.
Get the seating right
Position your seating in a circle with a table as the centre point for maximum sociability. Think about comfort as well, folding wooden chairs are ok for a short time but a little more luxury will really tempt your guests outside. Folding chairs and sun loungers are effective though if you don’t have space for a permanent seating area. It doesn’t have to cost a fortune either if you introduce relaxed, fun vibes with big beanbags or oversized cushions.
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