As the temperatures rise, we want to spend time outdoors, especially when the Irish sun decides to grace us with its rare but glorious presence. But even without the perfect weather, the beauty and tranquillity that a well-designed outdoor space can bring to your home is undisputed. Whether you have a small patio or a sprawling garden, creating an inviting outdoor space is the perfect place to escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Imagine stepping into your backyard and being greeted by the soothing sound of nature, the lush greenery and that cosy outdoor lounge area that calls your name for a lazy afternoon nap.
With our five expert tips, you can make that outdoor living dream a reality. From choosing the right outdoor furniture to incorporating lush greenery and ambient lighting, we’ve got you covered. But wait, there’s more! We’ll also share some clever hacks to maximise your space, making even the smallest garden feel like a luxurious retreat. So, if you’ve been thinking about a backyard makeover for a while or are only starting out, now is the time to grab your gardening gloves and get your hands dirty to turn your backyard into an amazing outdoor living space. By the end of this blog, you’ll know all the tips and tricks you need to create the ultimate outdoor oasis that will make your neighbours green with envy.
1. Blend Indoor-Outdoor Living
Blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor living is an effective way to enhance and maximise your home’s usable area. Start by choosing exterior furniture that complements your indoor style, creating an outdoor living room with a cohesive look — the same goes for the flooring. Using the same colour scheme and materials between interior and exterior decor also helps to connect the spaces seamlessly. Moreover, a simple colour palette including greens, beiges, and soft blues makes your outdoor space feel more spacious as it flows into the hues of nature. By thoughtfully blending indoor-outdoor living elements, you can enjoy a harmonious living environment, no matter the season.
2. Choosing the right Outdoor Seating Furniture
Finding the right exterior furniture can be tricky. From comfy loungers to relaxing hammocks and stylish hanging egg chairs, the choices are endless. Start by considering the size, layout, and most importantly the purpose — dining, relaxing, entertaining, or a combination of all three — of your outdoor space. For small patios, look for multi-functional loungers that don’t take up too much space and can be moved around easily. If you’re the lucky owner of a spacious backyard you can go for a larger cosy garden sofa. When selecting outdoor seating furniture to create a relaxing space, comfort and durability are key. We always advise our clients to opt for outdoor seating options made from durable materials like teak, stainless steel, or all-weather wicker that can withstand the Irish weather. You also want to make sure that any fabrics are washable and water-resistant. With the right outdoor seating furniture, you can create a stylish and serene space to unwind.
3. Define the Space with an Outdoor Rug
Utilise rugs to define and elevate your outdoor living space. This is an easy and budget-friendly way to lay the foundation of your lovely new outdoor space and create distinct zones. A well-placed outdoor rug not only adds a pop of colour and texture but creates a cosy atmosphere. For a cohesive look, opt for patterns and colours that complement your existing garden decor to tie the space together. And again, you want to go for a weather-resistant rug that is easy to clean.
4. Add Greenery and Outdoor Plants
Incorporating greenery and outdoor plants is essential to enhance your outdoor space. While it can be overwhelming to find the best plants for your backyard, you can’t go wrong with a mix of reliable perennial plants, annuals, and shrubberies to add colour throughout the year. Native Irish plants like ferns, heathers, and daisies are perfect for a low-maintenance yet stunning display. Consider using planters and vertical gardens for your outdoor plants to maximise space and add dimension, especially on smaller patios. Creating a green haven in your outdoor space brings tranquillity and natural beauty to your own backyard.
5. Create Ambience through Outdoor Lighting
Last but not least, proper lighting can transform your backyard into an outdoor oasis. Dress your outdoor space with a variety of fairy lights, lanterns, and solar-powered outdoor lights to create layers of illumination. Highlight key features of your backyard such as pathways, garden seating areas, and outdoor plants to enhance your outdoor space. Make sure to use warm white outdoor lighting for that ambient glow. Finally, scatter candleholders to set the mood.
Ready to build your ultimate outdoor oasis but don’t know where to start? We’re thrilled to get involved and help you create the outdoor space of your dreams. Whether you just need a hand with selecting the best outdoor furniture or want us to take ownership of the design from conception to completion. Find out more about our interior consulting services or get in touch with Emma at design@aprilandthebear.com.
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