SUMMER SUPPERS

Little beats a lingering outdoor meal in the warmer months. GABRIELLE FAGAN serves up three ways you can set the scene in style

THERE’S something about eating outdoors. A generous helping of fresh air and (hopefully) sunshine can magically make even the simplest meal taste delicious. That’s all good, because summer is no time to be slaving over a hot stove indoors – but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take a little time and trouble over the table.

By giving a setting a real sense of occasion, maybe opting for a theme, you’ll not only make it memorable but – a few drinks could turn into a party and a supper into a celebration.

“Having lunch and supper parties outside is one of the real joys of summer,” enthuses interior designer, Joanna Wood.

“I really like using unusual nature-inspired dishes in the shapes of leaves, and I like to work to a theme and pick a different one each year.”

This year she’s creating her own ‘Midsummer Night’s Dream’ al fresco setting, to give a patio area a theatrical touch.

“A theme allows you to be creative and you can incorporate flowers, candles and maybe floating flower heads with tea lights for evening parties,” she says.

“It’s all about a bit of imagination and planning that will result in something you can enjoy for the whole season.”

Turn the tables on dull dining

Fleur De Sel white bamboo lantern, £95.95, Beaumonde

and experiment with one of these three themes: Love Island style, a fun festival vibe, or a little slice of calm with country cool...

DINE LIKE A LOVE ISLANDER

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* Prices correct at time of going to print. Offers available while stocks last

IF YOU envy those fit reality TV show residents in their sun-drenched Majorcan villa, create your own sizzling Mediterranean hotspot. It could be perfect for leisurely meals and chilling (romancing optional!).

Group potted palms, ferns and other tall foliage around simple

seating. Low benches or boxes made comfy with foam rectangles wrapped in bright fabric will do nicely.

Finally, inject another zip of sunshine colour with outdoor rugs and cushions.

Mix a decor cocktail and pick up on Love Island style with slogans and beach style accessories – pool blue and flamingo pink rules!

CONJURE COUNTRY COOL

THE beauty of a rustic scene is its simplicity. All that’s needed are a

Watermelon neon light, £12.99, Lights4Fun Bamboo sunshine plates, set of four, assorted, £8, John Lewis Spirit yourself to an island hideaway with Talking Tables’ Global Gathering tableware and home accessories collection: Large mango bowl, £36; fabric table runner, £24; outdoor rug, £30; coasters pack of four, £14.50; round seat cushion, £30 Where to buy:

Turn empty bottles into twinkling showstoppers with batteryoperated bottle stopper lights, £8.50, Talking Tables Lengths of gingham ribbon have been used to decorate battery-operated tea lights, popped into a tiny flower arrangement

Flamingo large melamine tray, £21.50, Sara Miller Flamingo ceramic pool floating bowl, £19, Red Candy

Creative Tops drift melamine dinner plate, from £5, visit Creative Tops for stockists

Ridged green glass lantern, £25, Barker & Stonehouse

Classic XL bean bag/ indoor outdoor, £39.99, Bean Bag Bazaar