It’s time to give your garden a new look

SUMMER is in full swing, and although we may not be expecting months of scorching weather, this is a great time to jazz up your garden with a splash of colour that will last far beyond the floral blooms.

Paula Taylor, marketing manager of Crown Decorating Centres, said: “Remember the days when you could have any colour of shed, fence, garden furniture or decking, as long as it was a shade of brown?

“How things have changed from the days of pine, oak and mahogany hues.

“Now the choice of colour and finish for the outdoor space of your home is vast – opening up the opportunity to really stamp your personality on it.

“A fresh coat of paint on your garden shed or wooden furniture can breathe new life into your al fresco space, creating a whole new ambience and making visitors think you’ve splashed out a fortune on new kit.”

The most popular trend this season is the beach hut look – bold colours in an opaque finish that make a major statement, while harking back to the good old days of summer holidays, ice cream and walks along the promenade.

Paula said: “Don’t be afraid to go for a suite of colours either, you can paint wooden planters in complementary pastels or even mix and match the colour of your tables and chairs for an eclectic feel.

“Add a bit of bunting and fairy lights to the equation and you have the perfect venue for a summer evening barbecue.

“On a practical level, make sure you get some advice on the best products to use.

“Even if your shed or fence have seen better days there are products, especially coloured or tinted ones, that give excellent coverage to weathered and previously painted surfaces.

“Finally, if you take a look in the loft or shed you might just find some old furniture that could be given a new lease of life in the garden.

“Wooden blanket chests can be painted with flexible, durable outdoor paint and old, wooden step ladders, with a lick of paint or tinted woodstain, make the perfect backdrop for terracotta ●● Bring the great British beach hut feel to your own back garden plant pots, glass jars with candles in and a gathering of garden ornaments.”

Visit: www. crowndecoratorcentre. co.uk