Garden Improvement Ideas

It’s a fact – 2020 has completely transformed how we live, work, travel and socialise, with mounting concern as to how and when we will ever be able to return to some form of ‘normality’ or even what the new ‘norm’ will be!

With much of the population too anxious to travel and many planning to spend the summer at home, it’s no wonder that holiday budgets are being diverted into home improvements instead, and this is the perfect time to give your garden a facelift and create your very own slice of paradise.

Here we take a look at what is trending in 2020.

AN OUTDOOR LIVING ROOM

With the UK’s climate becoming warmer and the ongoing COVID-19 concerns, it is no surprise that outdoor living is increasing in popularity and it is recorded that the global outdoor furniture market is forecast to grow by 5%, by 2023 (source Livingetc). 

Many Brits are now happily creating their own cosy outdoor dining and relaxation spaces and it is no longer unusual to see thick cushioned rattan sofa & table sets placed lovingly on beautifully created patios or decking areas, providing the perfect space for alfresco dining or just enjoying a leisurely drink with family and friends. 

Weathered, sun-bleached woods, potted olive trees and palettes of soft greys and blues will bring about a Mediterranean theme, predicted to be one of the top trends for garden inspiration this year.

It is great to see the love and attention that has always been shown to our interior decor is now being transferred to include our outdoor spaces too.

WATER FEATURES

The UK is also seeing an increasing demand for modern, affordable water features. Not only do they add to the look and ambience of any garden, but they are also well known to soothe the mind. 

Water fountains have been providing a meditative focal point in gardens for hundreds of years and can promote a feeling of wellness and calm.  An absolute ‘must have’ in this fast-paced world that we live in and when trying to create a tranquil haven in the garden!

FIRE PITS

Fire pits deserve a place in every garden or on every patio, as not only do they provide you with additional warmth when the heat of the day is dwindling, they also increase the number of hours that can be spent outdoors, allowing you to relax and unwind long after the sun has disappeared, creating a warm and cosy ambience.

This year, contemporary designs and tables with inbuild fire pits are set to be a big hit as they easily complement any stylish outdoor space.

OUTDOOR KITCHENS

With the vast array of outdoor cooking options available to us, these are no longer reserved for larger properties, deeper pockets and sunnier climates. Outdoor kitchens and cooking apparatus are a great way to extend your entertaining space and really make every day in your garden feel like you are on an extended holiday.

From freestanding charcoal BBQ’s to grand gas burner BBQ’s to bespoke brick-built BBQ’s, cooking fire pits and ovens, pizza ovens or even a fully fitted outside kitchen, there is an option to suit every garden size and budget, really allowing you to enjoy outside living at its best.

PLANTERS AND PLANTER WALLS

Let’s face it, plants make a garden no matter whether you own acres and acres of land or you just have a small courtyard garden. When creating your perfect outside space, you can add colour and depth through potted plants and planter walls, easily and cost-effectively. Fill coloured plant pots with your favourite bedding plants for a splash of summer colour or plant your favourite bushes into raised edging beds or free-standing troughs. You could even introduce your own herb garden which would create a wonderful feature and cater to your senses on those warm balmy evenings. 

A planter wall is also another great feature to add and can be quite simple to install, whether that be by attaching various shaped pots to a fixed trellis or securing individual boxes to the wall. 

A GARDEN ROOM

Extending your home by transforming your garden is on the rise and by installing a garden room, you can take it to the next level. A garden room is a really great way to spend more time outside relaxing or socialising, no matter what the weather is doing, perfect for use 365 days a year.

Garden rooms also have so many uses from art studios, hobby rooms, garden gyms, entertainment spaces, outdoor bars, man caves, she-sheds or simply somewhere you can escape the confines and stresses of everyday life, to relax in solitude or with friends and family.

By adding double doors or bi-fold doors, and an extended decking area, your garden room will work in perfect harmony with your garden providing a great space to combine work, rest and play.

If you’d like to know more about SMART Garden Rooms, Offices and Studios, then please get in touch with the team, or order a catalogue today.