Get More From Your Garden

Divide your garden into distinct zones to make better use of your outdoor space. Be inspired by our expert ideas to create cooking, lounging and play areas, then enjoy life alfresco

- Thea Babington-Stitt

TABLE TALK

Enjoying a meal outside is one of summer’s pleasures, and creating an outdoor cooking and dining space is an easy and rewarding job. Situate your table in a shady spot under a parasol, sail or tree to allow for long, lazy lunches. And keep the table near the house, so it will be quick and easy to clear up afterwards. Construct the kitchen/barbecue set-up using materials that echo the exterior of the house, so that the prep area recedes into the background and the dining spot can take centre stage.

INSIDE OUT

A simple wooden pergola is the perfect base for your outdoor lounging area. Paint the structure to create a bold statement, sticking to a dark shade for longevity, and hang festoon lighting from the slats for atmospheric evenings. You could also add a roof of rush matting for shade. Train climbers up and over the pergola, too, to soften its appearance, add colour and, eventually, more shade. Outdoor furniture styled with cushions, rugs, throws and accessories finishes the space.

STEP DOWN

A pergola frames a seating area nicely but there’s a risk it will dominate the garden and loom over neighbours’ plots. ‘Positioning it where it doesn’t affect other people’s views is always a good idea,’ says garden designer Kate Gould. One solution is to sink your sitting area a few feet into the ground. Not only will next door’s sightline be unaffected, but the cocooning effect creates a more restful outdoor space. If you live in a listed building or conservation area, you may require planning permission, so check beforehand.

ALWAYS ALFRESCO