Landscape & Urban Design Issue 61 2023 | Page 7

GARDEN DESIGN
outside and illuminate your dinner conversations late into the evening .
There are lots of lighting options to choose from . Wall lanterns and sconces are convenient , lighting up the space with the flick of a switch . Cafe-style string lights above your seating area can create a romantic effect . Candles and traditional lanterns add a flickering , fireside feeling . Portable solar lanterns at each end of the sofa will provide a subtle glow .
8 . Gather Around a Firepit Another great way to encourage evening gatherings and late-night conversations is by gathering around a fire pit . Fire pits are great for roasting marshmallows , keeping warm , and encouraging people to go outside and enjoy the garden even in colder months .
Don ’ t think a classic stone firepit is your only option . There are so many different ways to incorporate a firepit into your exterior design . For example , you can opt for a luxurious bar top fire pit , a firepit in the middle of your dining set , or a sleek fire pit table like the one above .
9 . Lounge in a Swinging Chair Seeking out that one-of-a-kind piece that will make you smile every time you step out into your garden ? Hanging chairs can add dimension , interest , and fun to your space .
On a swinging lounger by the pool , you can gently sway back and forth while soaking up some vitamin D . In a hanging egg chair on the patio , you can curl up with a book , magazine , or your morning coffee , all while rocking in the breeze and listening to the sounds of nature .
10 . Think Outside the Box with Sculptural Shapes If you ’ re fatigued with straight lines and run-of-the-mill design choices , there are plenty of options to add visual interest to your garden . For a contemporary look , consider furniture with sculptural shapes .
Round lounge sets , egg chairs , and curved tables all introduce playful shapes that are visually exciting yet still functional . Since few things in nature form perfectly straight lines , curvy furniture looks at home in the great outdoors . Sculptural shapes in the garden can also help create a sense of flow as you move throughout the space .
Accents that pair well with sculptural furniture include round pots , footstools , vases and ottomans .
11 . Build Up Texture Layers Just like in an indoor living room , fabric layering builds up visual interest and a sense of comfort in your outdoor space . Choose furniture with durable outdoor fabric and decorate your seating area with outdoor scatter cushions , blankets , and accent rugs . Especially
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