Spring is sprung, and summer is on its way (the UK has been promised its hottest summer in 40 years), so there’s no better time to be planning on venturing outdoors to enjoy lazy afternoons in the garden with a good book and a cold beverage.

But first, your outdoor space needs to be up to the job. Here’s some top tips on creating a stylish summer sanctuary any sun-seeker would be proud of.


Take a seat

While you’re not watering plants or tending to the barbecue, you’ll need somewhere suitably stylish to recline and soak up the sun. A lone garden bench hidden away provides a peaceful place to sit and reflect, while a lounger or recliner promises maximum comfort. Stylish garden swings are a fun alternative and we love this quirky garden pod, so cosy you’ll never want to leave. And if you really want to close your eyes and pretend you’re in the Maldives, why not get a hammock for that ultimate desert island style indulgence?


Home comforts

Just because you’re outdoors, it doesn’t mean you need to forgo the style and comfort you’ve perfected indoors. Large floor cushions can be placed around the garden to provide little pockets of comfort and somewhere else to rest (should your garden pod have found itself a new occupant). Throw a few cushions on benches, loungers and chairs too – and who says throws should be limited to indoors? The iLiv pastiche chintz throw screams English country garden and will complement your carnations.


Let there be light

Alas, the sun must set at some point, and while dusk falls lighting can be used to create the perfect ambience. A string of clear or white fairy lights dotted round the garden is simple yet always effective (for extra magical impact, wrap around trees and plants), as are lanterns and tea lights. Solar lighting requires even less effort, simply plant around the garden and let the sun do its work. A fire pit is a good way of creating both light and heat, perfect for those chilly evenings (and also gives you an excellent excuse to toast marshmallows).


The right shade

It’s important to ensure you have a suitable place to seek solace from the sun too. Retractable patio awnings and canopies allow you to choose how much shade you want, while umbrellas and parasols can be easily moved around the garden. If you’ve got the space, a gazebo is an impressive outlet for shelter (and will come in especially handy if the heavens decide to open during a garden party).  

Have you created your own summer time sanctuary? Share your top tips in the comments below.