Top Tips To Make Your Outdoor Space More Versatile

Last updated on May 5th, 2024 at 09:24 pm

Many of us look forward to the long, sun-drenched days of summer so that we can spend as much time in the garden as possible. It’s no secret that the weather in the UK can be unpredictable, which means that it’s not always possible to make the most of outdoor living spaces. The good news is that there are ways to create a versatile space that caters to all conditions. If you’re keen to get out and enjoy your garden come rain or shine, here are some top tips.

Add a summer house, cabin or garden room

In the last few years, external structures, such as garden rooms and log cabins have become incredibly popular. Since the pandemic, we’ve been spending more time at home. Many of us now work from home and we’re more appreciative of our gardens. Adding a summer house or a garden room is a brilliant way to enhance versatility and functionality. Not only will you have a place to shelter from the rain and keep warm, but you’ll also be adding a stunning focal point. The beauty of cabins, sheds and summer houses is that they give you flexibility. You can entertain, unwind with a good book or even set up a workstation with a view. If you love the idea of having a garden room or a fabulous summer house, take a look at sites like Scotts for inspiration. Sheds, cabins and summer houses can provide storage space and free up room indoors if you’ve run out of space or your family has grown. 

Create cosy spaces

It’s wonderful to be able to soak up the rays and feel the warm glow of the sun on your skin in the summer, but what about winter? When temperatures start to tumble, many of us head indoors. Being outside is beneficial for mental health and it’s particularly helpful to take breaks in the open air if you work from home. It’s no fun to sit in the garden when it’s freezing but there’s something magical about snuggling up around a fire and looking at the stars. You can make the most of your garden all year round by creating cosy areas. Use a fire pit, a chiminea or a patio heater to keep warm. Put an outdoor rug down on the patio or decking and scatter cushions and blankets on chairs and sofas. 

Install outdoor lighting

During the summer months, it stays light until bedtime, but in winter, it gets dark in the middle of the afternoon. Installing outdoor lighting is a simple, affordable way to get more use out of your garden. When it’s dark outside, you can turn the lights on and get cosy around a fire or a heater with a mug of tea or a glass of wine. There’s a huge range of lamps and lights available. You can channel different trends and mix and match accessories. From fairy lights to chic, modern up-lighters, there’s something for everyone. 

Invest in furniture covers

Furniture covers offer two main benefits. The first is to protect outdoor chairs, tables and sofas. The second is to enable you to use them throughout the year. If you’ve got good-quality covers, you can keep your furniture out during the autumn and winter months without worrying about damage or wear and tear. 

Design different zones

Our gardens, like our homes, have become multifunctional spaces. Many of us use our gardens for lots of different activities. If you have children or pets, you may enjoy playing with them in your garden, as well as chilling out at the end of a busy day. You might be a fan of gardening and growing vegetables, or you may enjoy exercising outdoors. Perhaps you’re a fantastic host and you’re known for your barbeques or al fresco brunches. To make your garden cater to your needs, it’s a great idea to design different zones. Set up child and adult-friendly areas. Use different materials, colours and themes to distinguish areas. Bright colours are ideal for social spaces and play zones. Neutral tones and soothing shades of green, blue and purple are perfect for calming, relaxing spaces. 

Most of us love to spend time in our gardens during the summer, but we tend to hibernate during the winter. If you’re keen to create a more versatile space you can use all year round, take these handy tips on board. Add a log cabin, a summer house or a garden room and create cosy, warm spaces. Invest in furniture covers and design zones for different activities. 

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