Do you ever find yourself wishing you had more space in your home? Most people would be delighted with a little extra space, but regularly we neglect to consider the most obvious way to create it – our often underutilised outdoor space. From small balconies to sprawling gardens, these outdoor spaces present ample opportunity to be fully embraced – with clever design choices making them usable in all seasons – providing a near-seamless blend of comfort and nature that’s just a single step away from your home. 

In this guide, we’re looking at several of the steps you can take to create your ultimate outdoor living space that’s inviting, functional and always ready to be used. 

Seven Ways To Elevate Your Outdoor Space

To keep things nice and simple, we’ve broken down this blog into seven areas you could consider working on when improving your outdoor areas. Depending on your space and budget, all seven of these may not be possible, but mixing and matching your personal preferences from these options will result in a cosy, relaxing and functional space that does exactly what you need it to do. 

With a little inspiration from our friends at All-Tech Midlands, we’ve even solved the weather issues that stop most gardens in Britain being used perennially. So, without further delay, let’s jump in.

1. Lighting: Illuminating Your Space

Lighting is so effective at bringing warmth and atmosphere to any space; choosing the right illumination will have a major effect on the ambience of your new outdoor space. Consider where the lights will be going and what you’re trying to achieve with their placement.

  • Path Lighting: Essential for safety at night, path-level and low-down lighting enhances the overall look of your space and can be solar or battery powered for ease of installation.
  • Accent Lighting: Placing spotlights strategically can help highlight certain features of your garden, whether it be an architectural flourish or a particular border or plant.
  • Ambient Lighting: Soft, overall light can set the mood for evening social gatherings – or maybe you’d just like light to read by. Consider string lights, lanterns and LED systems.

2. Heating: Extending Comfort Into Cooler Evenings

While lighting will bring visual warmth to your new space, with the British weather you’re also going to need some actual heat if you want to use the area all year round. 

  • Fire Pits: Perhaps the cosiest and most cost-effective way to bring roaring heat to your garden is by using a fire pit, if space and safety allow. 
  • Infrared Heaters: When mounted under awnings or pergolas, these provide targeted warmth without taking up space, which is perfect for dining or seating areas.
  • Patio Heaters: A more traditional way to bring heat to a larger area in an outdoor space is to use a gas-powered patio heater. 

3. Seating: Blending Comfort with Durability

To fully enjoy your new area, ample comfortable seating is an absolute must for you, your family and any potential guests you wish to entertain.

  • Modular Seating: A modular seating installation will allow you to configure your outdoor area for different events, from cosy get-togethers to garden parties.
  • Built-In Benches: If a robust, long-lasting solution is what you seek, consider having custom, built-in seating created to your exact dimensions and size.
  • Patio Furniture: There’s no shortage of designs and style when it comes to patio furniture, allowing you to match your tables and chairs to the style you’re looking to achieve. 

4. Shelter: Designing a Flexible Outdoor Retreat

So your newly revamped outdoor space is starting to look great, but to make it really practical all year round we’re going to have to do something about the Great British weather. This means ensuring you have shelter, not only from wind and rain but also to create much-needed shady areas at the height of summer. To do this, pergolas and awnings are particularly effective, offering both style and functionality.

  • Pergolas: Well-designed garden pergolas with retractable covers have been growing in popularity in recent years thanks to their semi-open roof design that can be augmented with plants, lights and even extra fabrics for the ultimate in personalised looks. 
  • Drop-Arm Awnings: Perfect on the back of your home or as an addition to a pergola, robust drop-arm awnings provide flexible protection from the elements that can be adjusted throughout the day. Easy to use and long-lasting, they’re ideal for instant climate control.

5. Privacy: Crafting Your Secluded Oasis

You may be lucky enough not to be overlooked by neighbours, but everyone else may want to think about adding some privacy to their new outdoor area.

  • Vertical Gardens: If you love being surrounded by nature, vertical gardens can add a natural barrier to keep your space private, as can climbers and plants like bamboo.
  • Decorative Screens: Available in various materials and designs, these can block unwanted views and add an artistic element to your garden – even tying in to your interior décor.
  • Outdoor Blinds: Made from weather-resistant materials, these can add a stylish and adaptable touch to your garden patio or pergola.

6. Outdoor Cooking Areas: Culinary Delights Al Fresco

There’s something special about cooking and sharing food outside and an outdoor eating setup can really help elevate your new space to the next level.

  • BBQs and Grills: From compact portable grills to custom-built units there are many options that cater to every foodie. Choose according to cooking preferences and available space.
  • Pizza Ovens: These on-trend appliances boost food options and also become a focal point for social gatherings, allowing for choose-your-own toppings on quick and easy food.
  • Fully Equipped Outdoor Kitchens: If space and budget allow, a fully equipped outdoor kitchen is a game-changer, and can be customised to fit any outdoor space.

7. Smart Integration: Simplifying Outdoor Living

When it comes to finishing touches, you can even consider adding some modern technology to your new outdoor space, for the ultimate in comfort and entertainment. 

  • Automated Control: Be in total control by managing your lighting, heating and even your retractable canopies from your smartphone or tablet.
  • Sound Systems: Integrated outdoor speakers can evenly distribute sound across your garden, which is perfect for entertaining or relaxing.
  • Outdoor Televisions: A waterproof display in your garden can bring the ultimate in outdoor luxury to your new space, for watching TV, films or even just background ambience.

Making the Most of Your Outdoor Space

Making the most of your outdoor space, no matter its size, can really add something to your home that’s far beyond the extra space it gives you. However you choose to create your ideal outdoor area, we hope this blog has helped you picture the possibilities and given you some good starting points. Good luck and have fun creating your new garden space and enjoy the comfort and enjoyment it will bring you all throughout the year.