Many of us will be holidaying at home this summer and although we can’t escape to hotter, sunnier climes, it doesn’t mean we can’t make the most of the great outdoors here in the UK.  After being cooped up inside for a large chunk of time, people are ready to enjoy the sunshine.  The trends in outdoor living have really soared as many of us strive to make the most of our own outdoor spaces.  With our Outdoor Living collection, you can create a place to enjoy the long summer evenings, with great company, in excellent comfort, with delicious food and maybe a few drinks thrown in for good measure.

Outdoor Furniture

If you are going to spend lots of time in your garden then you’ll want to be comfortable.  Whether you intend to relax and soak up the sun or would rather sit at a table with loved ones, it’s a good idea to choose some good quality furniture that will last you well.  If you have a patio or a decked area, then you can create a wonderful outdoor living space with the right choice of furniture.  You could also add some soft furnishings such as outdoor cushions and maybe a throw or two to snuggle under if the breeze gets a little cooler. 

Dining Alfresco

You can’t beat dining outside on a warm evening and if that’s your choice and you like to entertain outdoors you will need a table and chairs.  The main thing to remember here is the scale.  You’ll need to leave a couple of feet between the end of the table and the end of your patio area to allow space for passing by.  If you are opting for something smaller then take a look at our bistro sets, perfect for couples and smaller gardens.    

We also stock a great choice of Picnicware that features melamine tableware, serving platters, acrylic glasses and plastic pitcher jugs which have all been designed to be used safely outside.  

Outdoor Heating

There’s nothing better than sitting outside on a cool summer evening when the sun starts to go down, but it can get a little chilly which is why we recommend an outdoor heat source. There are many options available now and they can help to make a cosy and inviting space to relax in.  How about a firepit, we love a real fire and a firepit offers both warmth as well as some relaxing mood lighting.

Barbecues

Many people have been developing their gardens and outdoor kitchens have been an extremely popular additional feature.  If you don’t have a built-in grill or similar and prefer to keep things simple, then we have a fantastic range of freestanding barbecues that will offer a great way to cook outside in the traditional way.  Don’t forget those all important barbecue accessories, we’ve got everything from skewers and BBQ toolsets to gas lighters and steak cutlery sets.  

Lighting

Family and Friends Listening to Music at the Summer Evening Garden Party Celebration.

Outdoor Lighting is fantastic for setting the mood and whether you choose to install a permanent set-up or would rather go for something a bit more whimsical and temporary, there are many options available that will help to add to the ambience. We absolutely love string lights and lanterns. They offer that magical, atmospheric feel, you can let loose and hang them around trees, above a seating area, along fences and borders or over a pergola. When selecting lights, make sure you choose those that are suitable for outdoor use as they will have special seals to keep the moisture out and are usually more durable and weather resistant.

For The Children

If you have children, then it’s just as important to keep them entertained.  The summer is for making memories and being outside is a great way to do that and have lots of fun.  Whether you want to create a safe space for little ones to play or you are looking for some garden games to keep the older ones entertained, then you’ll want to take a look at our Outdoor Play collection.  From interlocking foam play mats and space hoppers to Garden Quoits and table tennis sets, we have something for everyone.  

We are hopeful for a warm and long summer that will allow us to relax and enjoy spending time with friends and loved ones. Get the most out of your garden or outdoor space and shop the full Outdoor Living range here.

Sources:

https://www.houzz.com/magazine/10-outdoor-living-essentials-to-get-ready-for-summer-stsetivw-vs~134556591