Get your garden ready for the Spring and Summer months with our expert advice on how to style your patio and outdoor living space.
Our gardens have become an important extension of our homes and creating a practical, yet design-led, space is top of people’s wish list as they look to make best use of their outdoor space from morning to night. Patio decoration ideas are currently #trending on #Pinterest – and our design experts have picked out some of the hottest looks!
As with interior design – the key to getting your outdoor entertaining and living space’s look and feel just right is to invest in quality furniture and fixtures, and then use accessories such as rugs, cushions, lanterns and tablescapes to update the look year-on year.
Here are our top tips to get the most from your outdoor space this summer.
Shade you outdoor dining area with a retractable awning
Sales of awnings (also known as a canopy) are increasing year on year. Talking to our own customers we know that they appreciate the value these outdoor finishing touches add to their property. An awning can add a practical element to your garden design – creating shade and shelter from the elements; whilst complementing your wider outdoor styling thanks to hundreds of fabric options to choose from.
What is more, they aren’t just for sunny days. Integrated lighting and heating systems make them ideal for creating that cosy ambience when entertaining all year round. From enjoying your morning coffee on the patio, to brunch or lunch with your friends, they will put dining al fresco at the heart of your homelife.
Use the colour and pattern of your awning to form the backdrop to the rest of your garden design. You can choose a neutral scheme or add an awning with a brighter colour or pattern for the extra wow factor. We have a fabulous range of awnings and canopies, all custom made to fit perfectly over your patio doors or windows. Our motorised or manually operated awnings help provide heat protection for your family and reduce heat gain on large, glazed windows and bi-folds. Check out our range of made to measure awnings, which come with a five year guarantee, here.
Laid back living with outdoor sofas and outdoor rugs
Garden furniture styles and designs that create comfortable socialising and dining areas are trending. Think large outdoor sofas, soft and sumptuous cushions and outdoors rugs. It is all about creating zoned outdoor areas for all of your needs with comfort and style front and centre.
Outdoor rugs are crucial to this trend as they help to soften an outdoor space. Look for options with curved edges, soft flowing patterns and think carefully about placement. It’s not just about having one outdoor rug – multiple rugs can be used to zone different spaces and completely soften the outdoor experience and transition from the indoors. Or why not layer rugs to for added design impact.
Go boho – the trending colourful outdoor style for 2024
Boho-chic outdoor styling is set to be hugely popular this summer and we love this look when it’s teamed with an awning, creating a Mediterranean-inspired al fresco living space.
For 2024’s take on the Boho aesthetic outdoors use colourful rugs, throws and cushions with ethnic prints or vibrant patterns to add texture and create a cosy, bohemian vibe. Incorporate natural materials such as wood, wicker, and rattan in furniture and decor pieces. Choose weathered or distressed finishes to add character and charm to your space.
Another great way to get the look is to mix and match eclectic decor items such as lanterns, dreamcatchers, beaded curtains, and outdoor mirrors to add personality and visual interest to your outdoor space. And use lighting to enhance the Boho vibe, with string lights or paper lanterns overhead to create a magical ambiance and illuminate your outdoor space during evening gatherings or celebrations.
See our awnings page for more information on Apollo’s made-to measure-awnings and book in with your local Apollo for a free no obligation quote.