4 Essential Styling Tips For Getting The Garden Summer Ready
I’m not really a gardener. I think we’ve established that fact. But I do like the garden to look nice. So I do get out there now and again to re-pot and plant up whatever it takes to create a display. And as it’s too early for all but the hardiest of summer bedding yet, I do like to take a few steps to make the outside space look enticing. You know, for when those few days of sun appear.
Create An Outdoor Room
By arranging your garden furniture in a sunny corner. Whether you have room for outdoor sofas or just a few chairs and a table depends on your space, but make it as comfortable as possible with cushions. An outdoor rug will de-delineate the space and make it possible to kick off the shoes, and a few small tables will be handy for drinks. Having this arrangement ready will mean you can pop outside even if you only have a few moments and enjoy the sun.
Add Height and Interest to Your Planting
Buying a few plants now that can withstand a short frost will jolly up the garden no end. And if you concentrate on placing them around your seating area, no one will notice that the rest of the garden needs some attention. Hanging plants from some trellis will add height until the climbers come into their own. Or why not build a ‘set of shelves’ out of some old boxes. The rustic appearance suits the outside environment and the shelves will hold plants, decorative objects and tools. You know, in case you want to jump up and do some gardening.
Keep to a Colour Scheme
Restricting the number of colours you use will make your outside room look ‘designed’ rather than ‘haphazard’. In much the same way as you would decorate the inside of your home, keep to two or three shades for pots, cushions and other objects. In the same way don’t add too many different materials. A couple of bright colours will liven up sun-faded wood, while zinc and metal objects look great against red brick.
Plan Your Dining Table Setting Now
It’s always a good idea to stock up on paper napkins and night lights now. I like to keep a box handy by the back door or just inside the garage, of all the things I will need for summer dining. That way they are ready when you need them, especially for those impromptu barbecues. And while we’re at it doesn’t that barbecue need a scrub?
All images courtesy of Søstrene Grene
“if you concentrate on placing them around your seating area, no one will notice that the rest of the garden needs some attention”
THAT!!
Oh and climbers. I need more climbers.
Great tips Carole!
Haha, thanks Karen x
Great tips, were currently doing our garden and I like the tip of keeping the colours similar. So easy to have loads of colours in there!
A gardener designer recommended that to me once and it’s good advice ?
Love that shelving unit.It’s inspiring me to create something similar.
Me too! I’m adding it to the BF’s list haha x
Great tips Carole! The photos here are gorgeous, by the way – wish my outdoor space looked that good ? x
Thanks Antonia. Yes, my garden isn’t exactly looking photo-worthy at the moment either ?
Great tips here, I’m like you not a gardener. But still want it to look nice!
Thanks Susie. Maybe this weekend will be warm enough to get out there. x
Beautiful photos Carole – I thought it was your garden for a minute and was going to demand an invite! Can’t wait to see how your outdoor space is coming along this year xx
Your welcome anytime Hun. There’s still a way to go in the garden but fingers crossed it will get finished this year. x