If you’re enjoying extra garden-time this summer then it’s only logical to make your outdoor space as appealing and attractive as possible. As we all realise, choosing the paving and creating the beds and borders is just the beginning of any outdoor project! With that in mind, we thought we’d lend a helping hand and give you some further inspirational ideas for garden looks this summer…
Structured Spaces
As we are increasingly treating our gardens as ‘outdoor rooms’ it becomes more apparent that its sensible to zone a generously proportioned space into different sections. A good place to start is to allocate a picnic or sunbathing spot on the lawn, and a paved area to serve as an entertaining space. Note that chairs, tables, loungers, firepits and barbecues will be safer and more stable on a level, paved surface. And remember, the work put into levelling the ground at the beginning of the project will be very well worth it for an immaculate result! Seen above: our Granito Grey Outdoor Porcelain Slabs are designed to look exactly like granite, but are much easier to install and maintain than the real thing.
Screen Shots
We love the concept of using screens outdoors – perhaps to hide a not-great view, to disguise the bins, or just to perk up a blank wall or fence. This is a row of three Verdure large screens in black, from Screen With Envy. They’re made from a wood-composite material, which is very stable and can be easily installed. A very creative and clever pairing with sleek new outdoor slabs or tiles! Get the look here with our Vertige Grey Wood Effect Outdoor Porcelain Slabs.
Monochrome Matters
Simple colour schemes are always effective in the garden, and we think this monochrome scheme hits exactly the right note – it’s a classic combination of black and not-quite-white that will look great all year round (and as long as the greenery is kept in shape!). This is the Becklen range of outdoor furniture from Habitat; the chairs are black metal, and the six-seater table has a mosaic top. Get the look by choosing some of our Nexus Outdoor Porcelain Slabs, available in a very pale shade of grey.
Mixed Ideas
One of the hottest exterior ideas for summer (apart from adding some super-comfy outdoor sofas of course!) is to add interest to a paving scheme by mixing up the materials – and it can be as simple as adding a strip of gravel between grass and the tiles or slabs. Keep it simple with grey or white chippings or add a bit of colour with slate chips or pinky-red pebbles! And of course, our sleek White Matt Cracovia Porcelain Slabs work very well indeed as a contrast to timber furniture frames and fencing. Don’t forget, we are always very interested in seeing photos of our customer’s outdoor spaces – tag us on Instagram @tilemountainuk
Rattan Peacock Chair from Decoville | Sura Rattan Chaise Longue from Habitat | Tiki Beach Parasol from George Home at Asda
Indulgent Extras
Turn your garden into a very desirable destination with some fun extras. From left; The Rattan Peacock Chair from Decoville is a great choice for cocktail hour on the terrace! Shown here in Grey, it also comes in Black or White; Lounge around with a G&T on the Sura Rattan Chaise Longue from Habitat; Stay in the shade with the Tiki Beach Parasol from George Home at Asda which will look just as nice with a little bistro table as it will on the beach. Don’t forget to buy a parasol base as well though (!)
Good Wood Looks
Go for a wood look for a deck-style terrace, but without the upkeep and maintenance and commitment that wood decking requires. Our Vertige Outdoor Porcelain Slabs, shown here in Beige, are also available in Grey, and are cleverly designed to replicate the look of textured, engineered hardwood. These porcelain ‘hardwood’ slabs won’t deteriorate or discolour and are highly suitable for an outdoor area where a traditional look, perhaps to compliment a period home, is required.
Outdoor Living
If you have the space for a full set of outdoor living room furniture – go for it! As we’ve been so lucky with the sunshine over the last few months, some of us are getting a bit more adventurous in our choices of outdoor furniture. Keep it practical though, cushions must be at least shower-proof and it’s also worth thinking about where they can be stored out of season. This fabulous set, which has a hint of 1970s retro-style, is the Cradle Rope collection from John Lewis & Partners. And dare we mention our Vertige Porcelain Slabs in Grey which would complete this look!
Outdoor Entertaining, Festival Style
Lighting of course, is crucial for outdoor entertaining…whether you wing it with a few candle and a fire-pit or do it properly with lights strung throughout the garden! Much as we love little tealights and nightlights in lanterns, it’s really worth investing in some safe and reliable lights. Try these Carnival Festoon Lights from Lights4Fun – there are lots of safe lanterns and candle-style lights available as well. Perfect if you’re having a lockdown at-home festival weekend!
Henley Outdoor Fireplace from Ivyline | Laser Cut Black Steel Firebowl from Ludlow Stoves | Hacienda Tabletop Electric Heater from John Lewis
Keeping it Warm and Dry
Yes, yes, we know that us Brits always consider the weather very carefully when planning any outdoor activity! So our best advice is to cater for all eventualities when designing your outdoor spaces. Get a firepit, a covered barbecue (or at least purchase a cover for it!), make sure any soft furnishings are showerproof, and an Outdoor Heater isn’t such a bad idea either! Here are three of our favourites: From left; the Henley Outdoor Fireplace from Ivyline. Centre; Laser Cut Black Steel Firebowl from a selection at Ludlow Stoves. Right; the Hacienda Tabletop Electric Heater from John Lewis & Partners.
Outdoor Achievements
Even if you haven’t got a swimming pool, we thought that this little example of outdoor living, entertaining and relaxing was worth a mention! The rattan sofa is from a selection at Cuckooland.
Will you be jazzing up your exteriors this summer? If so then we’d love to see your pics! Tweet us @TileMountainUK, share on Facebook or tag us on Instagram!
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Linda has worked as a freelance interiors writer and blogger for many years; she has written for most of the major home and design magazines, including KBB Magazine, Grand Designs, Homes & Gardens, House Beautiful, Period Homes and Good Homes. She made the break and moved from London back to her home town of Shrewsbury three years ago and has just finished renovating her house. She also works in an interior design studio, produces copy for brochures and website, tries to tame her garden, aims to finish all the home furnishing projects she has on the go … and loves walking.