Transform your Outdoor Space into a Stylish Garden Room
It is officially summer, although here in Northern Ireland it sometimes seems it didn’t get the memo. Don’t let that put you off, we’re used to making the most of it, and it is the perfect time after all to enhance your outdoor living space. These garden room design ideas will help you create a summer haven where you can relax, entertain and enjoy the beauty of the season.
Comfortable Seating: The Heart Of Your Outdoor Room
The best part of summer for me, is spending time outside and making the most of those long summer nights, and for that, comfortable seating is a must. Imagine sinking into a plush sofa (yes, garden furniture can be just as comfortable as your sofa with the right upholstery)you won’t want to leave the garden as you sip on your favourite cocktail of choice!
Sectional sofas: Ideal for larger spaces and larger families, these offer ample seating and can be rearranged to suit different occasions. Perfect for hosting gatherings or stretching out with a good book.
Hammocks and Swing Chairs: Add a touch of relaxation with these cosy options. They are fantastic for a midday nap or simply unwinding after a long day. I love sipping coffee in my egg shaped swing chair at the end of a busy day.
Tip: Opt for water-resistant materials like teak, wicker or aluminium and choose cushions with fade and stain-resistant, quick-drying fabrics. I’ve added a few of my favourites below.
Garden Shade Solutions:
As much as we love the sun, it’s nice to take a break from those intense rays by creating a shaded area in your garden which offers cool comfort.
Pergolas and Gazebos: These structures not only provide shade and shelter but also add an elegant touch to your garden. Perfect for zoning areas off for dining or lounging. A shower spell won’t stop the garden festivities!
Umbrellas and Sail Shades: Much more versatile and easy to install as you can move them as needed to ensure you always have a cool spot to relax.
Retractible Awnings: Perfect for patios, offering adjustable shade at the touch of a button.
Tip: Try adding voile curtains or screens to your pergola or gazebo for extra shade and privacy which also creates a more intimate and cosy setting.
Outdoor Dining: Al Fresco A It’s Finest
Entertaining outside feels magical, taking in the colour of nature surrounded by beautiful flowers and plants really relaxes the senses not to mention the twinkly lights and firelight as the evening progresses.
Robust Garden Dining Sets: Look for weather proof tables and chairs. Teak and metal are the most popular choices for durability and a classic look but there is a wide choice of new materials out there for you to choose from.
Outdoor Kitchens: The perfect addition to any garden space if budget and space allow it. This makes entertaining your guests, super easy and relaxed, you have everything you need without constantly running back and forth, allowing you can take part in all the fun.
Bar Carts: I love a bar cart and wheel mine out at any given opportunity. Keep stocked up on your favourite tipples and snacks with a stylish accessible mobile cart, which is a great way to serve your guests and adds a chic touch to your patio.
Tip: Decorate your table with fresh flowers, chic outdoor friendly tableware, linen napkins and candles or string lights for an inviting table arrangement. It’s the little touches that make the difference.
Garden Room Greenery
It sounds obvious, but adding varying heights of lush greenery to enhance your space not only looks beautiful but brings a sense of serenity.
Container Gardens: Perfect for small spaces, pots and planters can be filled with colourful flowers and edible herbs. They’re easy to maintain and can be swapped out during the seasons.
Vertical Gardens: Ideal for walls or fences, they save space and provide a beautiful backdrop to your garden.
Raised Beds: If you adore spending time longer in the garden, you may think of raised garden beds which are easier of your back.
Tip: Mix and match plants and trees of varying heights and textures to add interest to your garden space, just like you would in your living room. This will add depth and interest to your garden room.
Garden Room Lighting
Lighting your garden is just as important as lighting in your home if not more.
Set The Mood
String Lights: Drape then across your garden for a magical, twinkling effect.
Solar-Powered lanterns: Eco-friendly and easy to place anywhere. They’re great for pathways or as decorative accents.
Pathway Lights: Ensure safety and add a magical path through your garden walkways, guiding guests and accentuating beautiful landscaping.
Decorative Lights: Add outdoor floor lamps and table lamps for a true garden room experience to zone lounge areas.
Tip: Use dimmable lights to control the mood and create a cosy atmosphere. it’s amazing how lighting totally transforms the feel of your space.
Garden Room Accessories
Include those all important personal touches to elevate your outdoor room, much like you would in your living room, these details will create that homely, cosy feel.
Cushions and Blankets: Choose weather-resistant fabrics and vibrant colours or choose a theme like blue and white, which is always a classic, to add comfort and style. They’re also great for keeping the chill off on cooler evenings.
Outdoor Rugs: Define areas and add warmth underfoot with durable weather-resistant rugs. There’s a fantastic range of pattern or plain with a border from local high street stores like Dunelm.
Decorative Accents: You know it’s the little details that add your special touch to the space, lanterns, table-scapes, garden mirrors all add character and charm.
Tip: Incorporate elements that reflect your sense of style and make the space feel like an extension of your home.
Get The Look
Image source: inset image sourced from Studio Magee (Pinterest)
Create the look with these upholstered seating stools in stain-resistant fabric in this beautiful broad sage stripe. Re-upholster existing seating complete with deep comfortable seating pads upholstered in this stain-resistant outdoor fabric which is soft to the touch but extremely hard wearing. Add a few outdoor cushions, mixing patterns with plains.
A concrete circular table will work well in this setting with accessories in rattan and wicker.
If you would like to re-upholster your existing furniture or create these bespoke pieces get in touch.
E: heather@heatherinteriordesign.co.uk
Garden Room Inspiration
Creating an outdoor room that you love is all about blending functionality with personal flair. For more tips, trends, and inspiration, visit my Pinterest page here>> or better still start creating on Pinterest, it's amazing, but be warned you will lose yourself in creative bliss!
Create a garden room that you will love to spend time in, no matter what the weather.
Happy Garden Room Designing!
