If the area is to be used as a functional
and fun space for socialising, the
lighting needs to illuminate the whole
area, rather than being for decorative
purposes; wall lights, spot lights or
solar lights should do the trick. Once
the functional lighting has been
decided on, mood lighting, such as
dainty fairy lights or large decorative
floor lanterns can be added to create a
magical feel!
To maximise the time in which the
outside area can be used, heaters come
in handy for the cooler spring and
summer evenings. Gas and electric
heaters have been popular for years,
but for a quirkier heating solution,
fire pits give the air of a cosier feel,
and their stylish look means they will
quickly become a focal point in the
garden, too!
Other additions worth considering
include good seating; whether that
be a round a table for dining or comfy
garden sofas for relaxing.
Flowers
Flowers are a great addition to
brighten up any garden area, to
ultimately make it more aesthetically
pleasing. To tie the garden and patio
areas together, beautiful in-season
flowers can be introduced throughout.
For planting in the garden beds,
flowers such as cosmos, zinnia and
dwarf sunflowers work well to provide
an array of bright colours.
Potted plants are a brilliant way to fill
in gaps, both in the garden beds and
around the patio; white dwarf lilies
make for stunning potted plants and
work well with any colour scheme.
Hanging baskets are excellent for
injecting colour; co-ordinate them
with the flowers that line the garden
beds or choose conflicting colours to
make a statement.
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Hanging baskets will draw the eye
upwards and the eye-catching florals,
cape daisies and petunias are popular
to use in baskets. To ensure the flowers
are in full bloom for all to enjoy come
the summer months, it’s a good idea
to get ahead of the game and begin
planting during spring!
Although hot summer days and warm
breezy evenings may seem a long way
off, the reality is, they’re just around
the corner! For those wanting to be
ready to enjoy a carefully planned
and well-groomed garden at the first
sign of summer, it’s wise to begin the
preparation now.