After enjoying a burst of beautiful spring weather and inspiration from the Chelsea Flower Show, we’ve turned our attention to our gardens. Outside spaces and green environments are essential for our mental wellbeing, reducing stress and improving our moods. It’s crucial to give our outdoor areas the same TLC we give to our interiors.
Jennifer Ebert of Homes and Gardens agrees: “For many of us, our backyards and gardens are just as important as the interior designs of our homes… One of the most important elements of garden design is that it is often a stylish extension of our home, and a chance to create another ‘room’ in which we can relax and entertain.”
So, why not create the perfect outdoor retreat and refresh your outside space with some space-savvy garden and balcony accessories? Here are five trends we’ve unearthed for garden excellence:
Container gardens
If your area is petite, such as a courtyard or balcony, get inspired by The Ecotherapy Garden, which won Best Balcony and Container Garden at this year’s Chelsea Flower Show. This biophilic design incorporates handmade hyper-tufa containers with a weathered texture.
Did you know containers are incredibly versatile and suitable for a wide range of plants? Become a balcony gardener and craft your own urban oasis with an abundance of greenery in a variety of planters. They’re an easy way to add colour, texture and interest to small spaces.
Wellness gardens
With the stresses of modern living, wellbeing gardens are becoming increasingly popular, helping us be more present in the here and now. RHS Wisley has been highlighting the link between gardens and good health and recently launched The Wellbeing Garden, designed by Matt Keightley.
For your own sanctuary, create a space for meditation and reflection. Add a screen for privacy, a folding tatami mat for yoga and breathwork, a rocking chair for calming movement, and a couple of lanterns for a warm glow. Relax and enjoy!
Outdoor lounge
Using your garden to increase square footage is the ultimate home extension hack. An alfresco lounge? Why not. Choose comfy furniture like the Ranch outdoor day bed, complete with a custom foam-filled mattress, shaped back cushion and solid pine frame. It’s super snug and can be adjusted into a day bed or full-length single bed – ideal for sun lounging or watching the stars on a clear night.
Add a few vibrant cushions, a side table and a rug – and you’ll be reaping the benefits of the great outdoors in a living room-style setting. Summer staycations done right!
Oak furniture
Oak is hot this year, not only because it’s a naturally durable material that can be used for a range of garden applications – decking, furniture, sculptures – but also because it provides a link to materials inside our homes.
This beautiful oak garden set is ideal for small space living. When the mini deck chair is not in use, it folds away, and when needed, the two pieces simply slide out to create a sleek and stylish garden chair. Pair it with the sturdy and lightweight mini oak deck table, and you’ll have the perfect picnic party for two.
Indoor garden
No garden? No problem – you can still create a little green haven indoors. Stand pots on windowsills, hang baskets from the rafters and place planters on stands for a flourishing display. Bringing the outside in and surrounding yourself with nature will provide many benefits. If you’re a budding gardener, you can also put your name on an allotment waiting list.
With summer on its way, there’s no better time than now to give your garden or balcony a touch of love. Explore our latest outdoor collection, available in-store and online, for brilliant hacks to spruce up your space. Don’t forget to peruse our blog for more outdoor inspiration.
