Use... a hidden hideaway

Think beyond the back door and head down the garden to create your own secret oasis for dining or relaxing

PICK THE PERFECT SPOT Start by considering the location depending on how you wish to use the space. Do you want morning or evening sun? Do you prefer shade? What about proximity to the house? Try positioning a dining terrace at the end of the garden, rather than right outside the back door, meaning you go on a journey to get there, making it more of an experience.

CONSTRUCT ‘WALLS’ AND ‘FLOORS’ Define an outdoor living area with solid surfaces. Just like inside, walls and floors create clear boundaries between different rooms and their purposes. Raised decking creates a solid base for furniture, while fence panels or screens can be utilised for hanging decorations such as festoon lights or lanterns. Large planters can be used in a similar way.

ADD COLOUR WITH AN OUTDOOR RUG If your outside space is lacking colourful plants and flowers, a great way to introduce more is with an outdoor rug. While a heavier blanket will work better on a lawn or grassed area, an all-weather rug is the perfect addition to brighten up a patio or decked space.

Use tall plants and shrubs to create soft screening Keep woodwork and flooring light in colour to let the pattern shine

Transform decking into a hidden sanctuary by adding garden screens

GREAT IDEA Screens help shade plants that don’t like direct sunlight