GARDEN DESIGN
HOW TO CREATE THE IDEAL INDOOR /
OUTDOOR LIVING SPACE
COME RAIN OR SHINE
Many of us view our home and garden as two separate entities , with a firm boundary in between . However , linking these two spaces to create the perfect indoor / outdoor living zone can make both areas look and feel bigger – regardless of the size of your property .
With the unpredictable British weather , it ’ s important to consider practical solutions that will provide adequate shade and shelter throughout the seasons , from heatwaves in the summer to torrential rain , wind and snow in the winter .
Add a canopy or awning
Thought to be more versatile than gazebos and parasols , the addition of a canopy or awning is one of the quickest , easiest and most affordable ways to transform any outdoor space . Both practical and stylish , either of these easy-to-use external shading products will act as an extension of the roof of your property , offering instant shade and shelter from the sun and rain showers , whilst also withstanding wind speeds of up to 30mph ( in some cases ). If a manually operated system doesn ’ t appeal to you , opt for an electric motorised awning that you can extend and retract at just the touch of a button .
Install a pergola
Modern pergolas with either sliding / retracting fabric or rotating aluminium louvered roofs ( and sides ) offer a more pragmatic and long-term solution to awnings and canopies . Whether it ’ s in the form of a freestanding structure within your garden or adjacent to the house as a direct extension of the property , a pergola is a simple yet effective way to give the impression of an outdoor
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