PLAN THE PERFECT - Outdoor living room

MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR GARDEN BY CREATING A DEDICATED SPACE FOR RELAXATION, SAY OUR EXPERTS

MEET THE EXPERTS

HELEN ELKS-SMITH, GARDEN AND LANDSCAPE DESIGNER

'What we expect from our garden has changed - it now needs to work really hard, and we often have to make compromises.'

MAIRI DEVLIN, HEAD OF HORTICULTURE, B&Q

'My perfect outdoor living room is a space to have fun, to entertain and to sit and relax, to enjoy the summer days and evenings.'

LISA COPPIN, CHIEF CREATIVE OFFICER, THE COTSWOLD COMPANY

'Explore different themes if you like, but it's crucial to consider the surrounding area and your property.'

TWO'S COMPANY

For an intimate space, go for a pair of armchairs. Stretton garden lounge set with footstools and coffee table, £899, The Cotswold Company

Our gardens have become so much more than a patch of lawn, a place to grow plants or to sit in the sun. Many of us are now turning our plots into extensions of our homes, creating outdoor kitchens, dining areas and living spaces. But getting an outdoor living room right can be tricky; there are many more things to factor in and more decisions to make than when planning our rooms indoors. We asked a trio of garden experts to share their top tips on creating an outdoor living room that's right for you.

RIGHT PLACE, RIGHT TIME

"The perfect outdoor living room for me has to be in the right place, the right size, surrounded by greenery, with space for friends and family,' says Helen, while Mairi adds, "It's an area where I can enjoy my garden throughout the day and for as much of the year as possible.' And Lisa continues, "The perfect outdoor living room should be an extension of the home, reflecting the homeowner's personality.

ECHO THE LOOK