How to furnish your outdoor space for garden party season

With summer almost upon us, it’s time to get out in the garden and make the most of the warmer weather and lighter evenings. Whether your summer plans include hosting barbecues and garden parties for a large crowd, or enjoying the peace and solitude your outdoor space has to offer, read our top tips on creating a relaxing outdoor haven that you and your guests will love and can enjoy for many years to come…

1. Spring clean your garden

It feels like it’s been a long winter and not quite the dizzy highs of 22 degrees we were hoping for in spring. That being said, there’s no time like the present to get going with your garden. A good place to start is by giving it a spring clean. Clear away excess greenery, trim back some of your larger trees and shrubs and tackle those pesky weeds.

2. Maximise on your sunny spots

Whether your garden is north or south facing, you’ll want to make the most of the areas that get the most sunlight. Perhaps it’s the patio you step out onto that gets the morning rays or the large grassy spot at the end of your garden. 

Before considering if you need to invest in new furniture, spend a little bit of time getting to know your outdoor space so you can really make the most of it. The size and layout of your garden will certainly play a deciding factor in what’s possible furniture-wise, as well as which areas offer the nicest view. But figuring out which area gets the most sunlight is a crucial starting point to sprucing up your outdoor seating area - especially in the UK where sunny days can be few and far between. 

3. Consider how you plan on using the space

Once you’ve sussed out the perfect spot to bask in the sunshine, decide how you want to actually use the space so you make the right choice when it comes to making your garden work around your lifestyle. 

Do you want to create a family friendly dining area to enjoy eating al fresco with friends? Should you add a kids area or a dedicated BBQ spot? Or do you simply want to get your existing space garden party ready so you can enjoy the sun whenever it’s out? Adding the right furniture will really help bring your outdoor space together - whether that’s a big comfy corner sofa, a long wooden dining table or additional seating for when your guests gather around the fire pit.

If you’re fortunate enough to have a large outdoor space, you could create a few different sections or zones for different purposes. For example, you may want to keep an outdoor dining space within easy reach of the kitchen, but an area for lounging and relaxing would be better in a more secluded and quiet part of the garden, away from where the children play. Having these clearly defined zones helps to create an outdoor space you’ll love to spend time in and can get the most out of.

Similar to your living room inside, a sofa or any comfortable seating is what really makes your space come together outside. Choose to position your garden sofa against one or two walls or use it to create a welcoming lounge zone in the middle of your lawn. When deciding on which outdoor furniture to invest in, think about how you want to use it. Scottish weather isn’t always warm and sunny so think practically if you want to position it under a canopy or ensure it has removable cushions which you can easily move inside when it starts to rain.

5. Add stylish accessories

We all know that it’s the little personal touches which make a house feel more like a home - and a garden is no different! Whether you’re hoping to create an outdoor dining area, or a cosy corner for taking in the midday sun, accessories can go a long way in bringing your garden to life.

Large throws, scatter cushions and lanterns are a great way to add colour or texture and create an inviting atmosphere in the garden - plus they’re ideal for when the evenings draw in and you need some more light and warmth. For an extra bit of indoor comfort, add a stylish outdoor rug underneath the dining or coffee table - the softer fabric helps to replicate a homely feel outside. 

From sleek metal and glass, to more natural wood and rattan finishes, you can use accessories to curate a beautiful outdoor space which perfectly reflects your own personal style and will impress any guests. 

Clever styling tips we use inside our homes can also apply to our gardens too. If you want to highlight certain areas, use outdoor lighting and lanterns to create an ambient and inviting space. If you want to brighten up a more secluded corner, add shelving or an outdoor mirror to a section of wall or panelling. It’s these classic interior design rules which can help to add a bit of personality and style to your garden space, transforming it into a relaxing area you and your guests love to spend time in.

And finally, if you’re looking for a way to enjoy your garden well into the autumn months, why not consider adding a firepit. Enhance your outdoor space and fill it with fresh logs to keep your guests warm and entertained. It’s bound to be the focal point of your next gathering.

Feeling inspired to revamp your outdoor space? Browse our stylish garden furniture.