Your outdoor living space is essentially an expansion of your home. This is why it is crucial that you are able to shape it into the space of your dreams.

Whether it is a garden or just an outdoor extension, your external living space should reflect your personality and look inviting to anyone who catches a glimpse of it.

Whether you want to use it as a place of socialisation, privacy or relaxation, there are many ways that you can actively enjoy your outdoor living space. Here are some ways for you to get started.

 

  1. Make your space reflect you

 

In the past, your garden or outdoor space might have been used to establish your social image. However, nowadays, it is a bit different. Some people might still want to use their garden to make an impression on others, but we would recommend that you especially prioritise making it personal to you and your interests.

For those who want to use their garden for social gatherings, a fire pit or seating space may be included, however for those that want peace and quiet, a small hammock or gazebo may be used to add a sense of privacy.

Consider what you want to use your garden for and the extent other people are going to join you in it. That way, you can decide what sort of furniture you want to buy for it and how it will impact your enjoyment.

 

2. Create a design plan

 

To make full use of your outdoor living space, you may need to consider its size, space and shape. Before you jump to more complicated items, like luxury garden furniture or outdoor features, focus on the simple things first.

For instance, if you have a round curve in your outdoor space, you may need to think of what could fit in that space and how it could impact your design. Draw out your plan and consider what each area could be used for. That way, you can make the most of all of the space.

 

3. Consider your furniture

 

As we just mentioned, it’s important that you think about the shape of your outdoor living space. That way, when you start looking into furniture, you could consider what shapes would suit which area.

So, let’s say your outdoor environment has a square space that is hidden away in a corner. If it is large enough, you could put a square water feature in to add a sense of elegance to the space.

However, if that square area is much smaller than the rest of your open space, you may want to make it a quiet secluded area that is designed for reading and relaxing. In that situation, we advise you to find furniture that can allow for lazing around or even a small flowerbed that could slot into a corner of your outdoor living space.

Consider your space before you pick any type of furniture, then you can start focusing on the furniture’s design, colour and overall purpose. When you have completed the design, you will find it much easier to enjoy your outdoor living space.

 

4. Sociable areas

 

If you are thinking about using your outdoor living space as a social area, it is crucial that your design incorporates furniture that can add a sense of fun to your occasion.

For instance, if you intend to throw BBQs or a summer party, you may want to put a BBQ area in your outdoor living space, or even an area for a pool or jacuzzi. In some cases, you may even want to make an outdoor fire pit where you and your friends can sit around and have a drink and a meal.

Pick your furniture based on what sort of events you plan to host in your outdoor living space. This can help you truly enjoy the time you spend in it.

 

5. Create time for peace

 

An outdoor space does not need to be about other people. To enjoy your outdoor living space to the fullest, you can add areas that are designed for relaxation in the sun. This can include sunbathing patios, hammocks and pools. You can even add luxury items, such as a small bar or fridge area. That way, you will be able to enjoy times of relaxation on your own and with other people.

Some people even create gazebos where they can have peace and quiet away from the world. Try and incorporate natural grassy areas into your outdoor space as well. This will allow you to truly feel like you have some time to just enjoy some peace on your own terms.