To celebrate the fine weather, we have compiled a list of our team’s favourite tips and tricks for creating an outdoor living space in your garden. Have a read below to find some ideas to create your back garden oasis.

Choose the best area.

When deciding on an area to focus on in your garden, think about what you would like to use the space for – is it sunbathing, BBQs, reading or family dinners. This will help you identify the best space in your garden while considering the hours of sunlight, shade or space needed.

Create colour.

Deciding on your colour palette is very important as it can have effect on your overall mood. Calming colours (greens, blues, beige) will work perfectly for a relaxing space. Bright colours (orange, yellows, reds) may work to make a modern statement. Whites and creams can bounce light, making smaller areas appear larger.

Update your outdoor furniture.

Invest in durable outdoor furniture that will work for your needs. A corner sofa, sun loungers, hammocks, a pop up gazebo or a swing chair can really transform a space. For smaller areas you could have additional folding chairs in storage. Rattan garden furniture is long lasting and has a nice finish. Mature teak wood is also a popular durable option. Also remember to choose furniture that is UV resistant.

Bring the indoors outside.

Simple household additions can really uplift an outdoor area such as fairy lights, candles, rugs, cushions and plants. Solar lights can be a great sustainable solution to light up the garden in the evening. Transform dull walls with an artificial hedge, green ivy, or bamboo.

Make it your own secret garden.

Make the space your own. Escape from nosy neighbours in your own private space by adding a garden screen, fence, tall hedges, gazebo or a parasol.

Heat up the space.

Blankets on chairs always come in handy in the evenings. An outdoor heater or firepit will not only keep everyone warm but can also add a warm ambience.

Add that wow factor.

Make your garden unique with a wow factor. Find that final detail to give the garden your own personal touch. An outdoor movie projector, hot tub or a charming fountain can give your garden that personal finishing touch.

Mini Spring Clean

Dedicate one day to do a mini clean throughout the house. Empty wardrobes step by step. Clear out your cupboards and refrigerator. Clean your washing machine by putting on a full cycle with distilled white vinegar and baking soda.

Clean the Gutters

A leaf blower can help to clear your gutters. A mixture of white vinegar and water will help in removing grime and keep them white.

Turn Shabby into Chic

Give any worn furniture a lift with a shabby chic makeover. Sand old wooden furniture and add a few new coats of paint. Choose new doorknobs to give a fresh finish. Re-grout any old tiles that need a new lease of life. A tile grout finisher will give the perfect finish.

Add Some Greenery

Plants help purify a room and add a nice decor touch. Numerous studies have found that adding some greenery to a room can reduce anxiety and lift your mood. Choose some tropical plants to add a summer feel to your house. Popular tropical plants include Parlor Palm, Split Leaf and succulents. It is not recommended to place plants in bedrooms as they may create carbon dioxide at night.

Rearrange Furniture

In summer we tend to use the rooms in our house differently. Rearrange furniture with your summer lifestyle in mind. Opening patio doors, hanging lighter curtains and moving a mirror can brighten a room. Moving large furniture occasionally can also help save your flooring.

Rethink Lighting

Light in our homes changes from winter to summer. Maximise any natural light by angling furniture towards windows, choosing light colours and replace any dark lampshades.  Move your sofa and chairs away from windows in very hot temperatures. Cut back greenery in your garden to let in natural light.

Scents and Décor

Some of our landlords have replaced old wooden bedframes with bright white wooden frames. Replace old dark pictures and frames with bright, colouful designs. Finalise your home summer lift with some summer scents. Choose candles or diffusers to fill your room with an orange, lemon or tropical aroma and enjoy the summer feel in your own home.