MEET THE EXPERTS
SELINA LAKE, STYLIST AND AUTHOR
‘One harmonious palette helps you pull a space together. Try mixing natural tones with black, soft green, beige and a hint of rust’
FRANCESCA HADLAND, CONTENT AND SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER, BRIDGMAN
‘A comfy modular sofa is a must. Go for one with sumptuous, stain-resistant and waterproof cushions’
JODY CRICHTON, CO-FOUNDER, AMAZING OUTDOOR SPACES
‘Define the purpose of your garden space; is it to entertain guests or to unwind and eat with the family? Then plan accordingly’
Ah… warmer days, a time to be living – and entertaining – outside. But what if your garden falls short of the social venue of the summer? There’s so much to consider when it comes to alfresco living. We asked a stylist, an outdoor furniture expert and an outdoor kitchen specialist just what it takes to create the perfect space for entertaining.
GET THOSE PRIORITIES RIGHT
‘The perfect outdoor space should blend seamlessly with the surrounding environment,’ explains Jody. ‘I’d choose a spacious and functional cooking area with shelter, a dining space with ample seating and shade, a firepit or heater, functional and aesthetic outdoor lighting, and of course natural planting.’ Francesca adds, ‘Whether you are dining alfresco or relaxing in the sun with friends, comfort is essential.’
Maximise Outdoor Dining Space - If your outside eating area is a little cramped, follow these tricks to make the most of what you do have
If your outside eating area is a little cramped, follow these tricks to make the most of what you do have. We asked a host of garden experts to share their top tips on making the most of a small space, whether you're hosting friends and family for a special occasion, relaxing at the end of the day or enjoying your morning coffee.
hometruths
KELVIN AND LIZ FLETCHER GET UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL WITH THEIR HOME
Fresh & delicious
Chicken traybake with garlic & cherry tomatoes
NATURAL habitat
KERRY HARRIS' EAST LONDON HOME IS A LESSON IN BLURRING THE BOUNDARY BETWEEN INSIDE AND OUT
"WE AREN'T traditional"
RACHAEL AND ALEX'S RELAXED FUNCTIONAL HOME IS A BLEND OF VICTORIAN ARCHITECTURE, MID-CENTURY MODERN AND PALM SPRINGS SHADES
GROWING up
ARCHITECT ROB AND WIFE EMMA HAVE TRANSFORMED A 1970S HOUSE, GIVING.THEM MORE SPACE FOR THEIR FAMILY
The shortlist PARASOLS
Create a cool spot with these dazzling sunshades
Weekend decorator
CLEVER TRICKS TO MINI DECOR PROJECTS... WE ROUND UP THE SIMPLEST, QUICKEST WAYS TO MAKE YOUR HOME MORE BEAUTIFUL NOW
The shortlist PICNICWARE
Everything you need for the perfect spread
PLAN THE PERFECT - Outdoor living room
MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR GARDEN BY CREATING A DEDICATED SPACE FOR RELAXATION, SAY OUR EXPERTS
