How to transform your patio into a dream holiday destination.
It’s a truth universally acknowledged that as soon as you have some downtime, time off work, or the kids break up from school the weather will be shit. So isn’t it remarkable that in these never-seen-before times, where the world is working from home and the kids aren’t in school, the weather has been utterly glorious? We’ve just had the driest and sunniest May since records began! A whopping 266 hours of sunshine apparently.
This has got me thinking about outdoor spaces and mine in particular. It’s a bloody awful mess. This is partly due to the fact that we are mid-renovation. And partly due to the fact, I was forced into full-time motherhood with no notice. Naturally, my reaction was to buy more shit to keep the child entertained. We went from zero outdoor toys to looking like a ‘Smyths’ outdoor display area in about 6 days.
But just because my outdoor space is a disaster doesn’t mean yours should be. As most of us are facing a summer at home we are probably all thinking about how to bring a little bit of the Algarve or the Costa Del Sol to our own homes. So assuming you’re builder-free and not plagued with kid’s toys, here’s how to transform your patio into a dream holiday destination.
1. WEED AND SWEEP
Forgive me for pointing out the bloody obvious here but this is the dull bit that’s gonna make all the difference. If you skip this bit it doesn’t matter how much money you spend on furniture or pots or beautiful plants it’s always going to look a little bit crap if you don’t create the right foundations. Weeding the patio, or jet washing the decking can be totally transforming. Not doing this bit would be like not sanding your skirtings before painting them, or not applying moisturiser before your makeup. Preparation is dull but it’s totally worth it. So get weeding and cleaning before you start anything else.
2. GET A RUG
Take the indoors out with a weatherproof rug. There are loads of fantastic options for outdoor rugs these days that won’t blow the budget. They are mostly made from Polypropylene which is a totally synthetic fibre that is very hardy, and resistant to rain and mould. You can literally leave them out all year round if you want to. A quick blast with a jet wash after the winter months brings them up as good as new. There is also a growing range made from recycled plastic such as drinking straws which is a complete winner for the planet and our consciousness.
Just like the indoors, rugs are there to create a visual base for building your reclining and seating area. It does the job of pulling all the furniture together and creating an inviting and cosy area to gather. So make sure it’s big enough for your furniture to sit on. A rug that’s too small will make the area feel smaller, so get the biggest rug you can afford.
3. COMFY SEATING
Budget is likely to guide you on your seating choices. You can spend a crazy amount of money reclining chairs so it’s good to set a budget before you start browsing. Also, consider how much space you have. Reclining chairs and loungers will take up a huge amount of space so think about how many people you want to seat. If may be better for you to have upright chairs and more of them. And also think about the storage of cushions. Whilst some cushions are weatherproof they are always going to look better and last longer if they are put away for half the year, so think about where you can store all this furniture when the sunshine has buggered off again.
4. CUSHIONS AND THROWS
If you don’t have the budget for expensive furniture then embrace the boho vibe and go mad with cushions. There are so many amazing and wonderful floor cushions that will add colour and texture to your outside space. Layering rugs and cushions will create a really indulgent and inviting atmosphere if you’re a young enough crowd who are capable of sitting on the floor. And don’t forget some throws too, it’s not often our long warm days continue as long hot nights.
5. LIGHTS AND CANDLES
Here’s where the magic happens. You can never have enough twinkly lights. They will transform your knackered old decking or grubby patio under and bathe it in a warm glow that will make you believe you’re in the Mediterranean. You can just use your Christmas tree lights or you can splash out on some paper lanterns. Lanterns will also add colour and texture during the day and will bob about delicately in the breeze. And if you are responsible enough you can also use candles which can also add to the whole sensory experience. Choose candles with beautiful scents that will transport your mind to a more exotic destination.
6. PLANTS & POTS
Plants and pots are going to add colour, texture and life to your outdoor room so don’t hold back. Choose bold and vibrant colours for your plants and you can get creative with your pots too. If the budget is tight, buy second-hand pots and use leftover paints or cheap tester pots to transform them. Ideally, you would use masonry or eggshell paint to be more weatherproof. And look into getting some planters as well. These will elevate your foliage so you can create a more dynamic display. If your plants are all one height it’s just not so interesting. I am certainly no expert on plants so ask the staff a the garden centre to give you some pointers on what will create a varied and mixed display. And don’t just think about colour. The texture of the plant is really important too. I love the way bamboo rustles in the breeze, so they can even add sound that will enhance the atmosphere of your space.
So whether you have a balcony, small courtyard or huge patio you can apply these steps to create your own cosy little oasis. Then all you need to add is wine, gin and some friends..and pray the sunshine lasts. My patio transformation is going to have to wait until next year but I hope you feel inspired to crack on with yours now! Enjoy the sunshine.
If you would like any interior (or exterior) design advice and live in Hampshire then get in touch, I’m always here and happy to help you.
Sarah x
