With lockdown easing and nicer weather on the way, now’s the time to put down roots and get your outdoor space ready for meet-ups with friends and family.
Whether you have a huge garden or a cosy balcony, here are some top tips to create your very own al fresco haven...
Out with the old
Spring gardens are ready for a tidy up so pull up any weeds, clear away dead growth and leaves, and top up beds with a new layer of compost. Get busy recycling junk, cleaning pots and planters, and jet washing flags, concrete and decking. The lawn mowing season starts here.
Time to blossom
Once it’s warmer, you can start to plant seeds and flowers or even grow your own vegetables and herbs. Aim for varieties that suit the conditions of your garden and benefit wildlife such as butterflies and bees. In smaller areas, use staggered pots and wall planters to make the most of available space.
Treat the senses
Your outdoor space is yours to enjoy so fill it with sights, sounds and aromas that make it a sensory retreat. Think fairy lights and twinkling lanterns, trickling water features, gorgeous-smelling herbs and flowers, and a roaring fire pit (or compact heater) to stay snug once the sun’s gone down.
In with the new
This year’s hottest trend is garden zoning, creating a multi-functional outdoor space - with everything from playrooms to zen areas – the whole family can enjoy. For a ‘fifth room’ feel for balconies - awnings and bamboo plants provide all-important privacy while mirrors create the illusion of space.
Take your seats
Another big trend in 2021 is blurring the lines between inside and out. Achieve a homely look by dressing sofas, chairs and hammocks with cushions and throws, and invest in a vibrant outdoor rug to bring everything together. In terms of colour, the bolder the better!
Set the bar
The world might be slowly returning to normal but staying in is still the new going out. Whether it’s a humble shed makeover or a swanky garage conversion, there’s something to suit everyone’s taste and budget. Short on space? Consider a wall-mounted bar or a retro drinks trolley.
Host with the most
From pretty picnic and tableware to barbecues and pizza ovens, there’s no shortage of outdoor dining accessories to entertain your guests in style. For a real showstopper, why not invest in a hot tub or your very own home cinema? Just bear in mind your guests might not want to leave…
If you’re thinking of moving, our stylish and high quality new homes offer all the space and privacy you could need, inside and out.
Thoughtfully designed for flexible living and perfect for entertaining friends and family, our homes are the ideal place for putting down roots. And moving now means you’ll be settled in time for summer.