Whether you’ve a large garden or small backyard, the summer months are probably the only opportunity to really make the most of your outdoor space. Plenty of sunshine (hopefully) and long summer twilights give us all the chance to get out of the house and relax with friends and family. But wouldn’t it be an added bonus to create an outdoor living area that you can be proud of? Well, just a few simple design ideas and products can help you achieve a fabulous look.

How does your garden grow?

Your garden or back yard may already look good in which case you might just want to change the décor or you may be staring at a complete mess and need a total overhaul. Whatever the situation, decide on a plan and a budget.

Try to include shady areas in your outdoor space so you can get away from the sun. Most gardens and yards will have natural shade at certain times of the day but if yours doesn’t use plants such as Ivy that will thrive in the sunshine and provide cover. If you don’t want to plant anything, make sure you’ve got a parasol.

Choose your style

Do you prefer a contemporary look or a more traditional feel to your garden? Your choice may depend on existing garden furniture but take a look at the styles of outdoor décor that are available as you could be surprised by what you actually like. You may find one piece that you fall in love with in which case you can design your outdoor space around it.

Think about the existing colours of your parasol or chair cushions as this can help you decide on a palette. If you’re setting out to buy everything new, the colours you choose should be complemented in other parts of the outdoor space such a fencing. Speaking of which, if your fences are a boring wood colour, give them a lick of outdoor paint to brighten things up.

Relaxation or green fingers?

Think about how you want to use the outdoor space available to you. If you’re all about relaxation then you’ll want to keep things low maintenance. Perhaps you want a space in which to entertain in which case you’ll need plenty of outdoor seating and some bar and drinks accessories to help serve your guests.

If you’ve always fancied getting your fingers green then you don’t need a huge allotment. Simple planters and grow-kits can be placed in the smallest of courtyard gardens to provide a homely and natural feel to your outdoor space.

Lighting the way

Outdoor lighting can transform even the most simple back yard so don’t forget to plan this into your budget. Provide bright lighting for paths and patios where you walk, cook and play with softer lighting for entertainment areas so you and your guests can relax during those balmy summer nights. Make sure your lighting fixtures complement your outdoor décor – you’ll find an array of traditional, modern, solar-powered, candle and lantern lights on the market.

No matter what the size of your outdoor space or your taste in décor, there are endless possibilities to creating a great garden along with plenty of seating, lighting and accessories to consider buying.

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