GARDEN UPDATES
Decorate and furnish your extra summer room and prepare your space for fun alfresco affairs – or moments of quiet escapism – with the latest buys and design ideas
The latest ideas and designs for your own outdoor retreat
Touch of texture
Freshen up your walls or conceal poor-quality brickwork with a rendered finish. Once dry, complete the cement coat with white paint to echo a Mediterranean feel.
Indoor outdoor
An array of potted plants and comfy cushions used both on patios and in living spaces will create a seamless transition between indoors and out (weather permitting).
Summer brights
Keep essentials close to hand with this cheery yellow table. The top features a removable tray and the legs conveniently fold, making it easy to store and transport.
Light & airy
Further the feeling of grandeur by installing a mirror on a fence or wall, giving the illusion of more garden.
Gather round
This cotton canvas picnic rug has been coated with UPF50+ to keep your print vibrant. Complete with a woven carry strap, take the comfort of your garden to the park, too.
The power of paint
Achieve a sunbaked look reminiscent of holidays to far-flung destinations by teaming a palette of faded terracotta with sunny yellows and barelythere pinks.
Statement backdrop
Splashbacks aren’t just limited to indoor kitchen settings, so why not jazz up an outdoor prep area with eye-catching tiles? Opt for a thin stripe laid horizontally for the feel of a wider space and a look that’s effortlessly fun and stylish.
Super sit-out
Tapping into the trend for laidback living, the low lounge chair in green blends beautifully among outdoor plants.
Profile planter
This curvaceous silhouette can be stood either way to accommodate plants in all shapes and sizes.
Perfect pop up
Whether you’re looking to throw shade on lazy lunches or lavish lounging, create a vintage look with a cotton-fringed parasol in muted colours or a sweet stripe
Social hub
As the evening draws in, light the fire and gather round to keep warm. Mosaic detailing adds a Mediterranean feel to the Madeira fire pit, £299, Marks & Spencer
Put your feet up
While the afternoon away on this stylish daybed. A statement addition to a boho-style garden, the foldable design makes for easy storing come winter.
Outdoor oasis
Offset black decking and white walls with lush greenery. Go large with tropical, leafy plants, such as banana palms and ferns, to add impact, depth and interest.
Chic canopy
Rig up a sail shade over your entertaining space for the ideal secluded spot to enjoy relaxing in all day long.
Flexible setting
Add a pop of colour to a monochrome scheme with statement seating. These sling back chairs are lightweight, too, making them easy to move.
Soft furnishings
Rugs and cushions instantly add comfort to a space. To make them suitable for outdoor use, look for weatherproof materials and water resistant fabrics.
Automatic ambience
Hang solar fairy lights from trees or fencing to enjoy your garden after sundown. Simply place the solar cells in a sunny spot and they’ll switch on at dusk.
Slim slats
Spruce up your patio and create a spacious feel with horizontal slatted fencing. This contemporary choice provides privacy and a sturdy structure for trailing plants.
Rust-proof planting
Grow a selection of your favourite leafy plants in an oversized planter for a modern feel. The matt black exterior has been treated with anti-rust technology for a functional finish.
Linger for longer
Fashioned from a woven bamboo frame and topped with a grass-effect roof, this bar will bring a dose of Tiki-style fun to your back garden.
Garden storage
Make a home for outdoor cushions and throws when not in use with this handy cabinet. The spacious work surface caters for all your outdoor tasks, including food prep, laundry hanging or potting plants.
Bar-be-quick
Gear up for summer with this budget-friendly grill – the fuss-free and compact design is ideal for smaller spaces. Kettle BBQ, £12, Poundland
Install lighting
Fit a wall light to cast an ambient atmosphere and add extra security to your home. A classic swan neck design will bring a decorative element.