EXPERT VIEW

Open-air lounge areas

Carole Bamford OBE, founder, Daylesford

I spend a lot of time outdoors, even in the colder months,

so I consider my outdoor space an extension of my living room and I want it to be instantly welcoming and inviting.

The wearability and longevity of outdoor furniture is very important.

If you’re going for wood, it needs to be a hardwood, such as oak, so that it will weather well. I would also always urge people to consider the provenance and environmental impact of their choices.

When choosing a palette I’ll respond to my surroundings and use the colours in nature to lead my choices.

Muted shades of green, sandy-coloured tones and fresh whites reflect our surroundings here in the Cotswolds so I’ll choose textiles, woods, stone or powder-coated metals that mirror those colours.

If you’re entertaining outside, make sure that everyone feels relaxed.

I am a big fan of playlists to set a mood so I’ll always have speakers outside.

While I love the sun, people’s tolerance for it varies so it’s really important to provide shade,

especially if you’re eating, so parasols are a must-have. I’ll always have candles in hurricane lamps either on the table or scattered around the outdoor area so that I’m prepared for when it gets dark. Candles lend so much more atmosphere in a space than outdoor lighting.

Firelight provides an appealing focal point

so if you have a firepit, then arranging furniture around it will always create a cosy atmosphere.