We’re nearing the end of Lockdown 3.0, spring is here and summer is on its way, but we still can’t plan holidays and we are spending more time in our gardens than ever before. It’s time to take a fresh look outside. Here are my ideas for creating a stylish outdoor space so you can really enjoy being in your garden.

1. A room outside
Plan to give your eating area an enclosed feel, near a hedge or wall, or erect a trellis or screen. I have created a cosy area on my terrace with olive and bay trees in lovely big pots. Invest in outdoor furniture that lasts – there are lots of sustainable options available in wood or rattan.

Refresh your existing furniture with exterior paint, or go vintage and re-purpose old pieces – paint chairs in different colours for a chic French look. If you have a balcony or small outside area, a bistro table and a couple of chairs in a bright colour looks stylish.

2. Staying warm
Sadly, we don’t live in a Mediterranean climate (yet) so it’s important to think about how to stay warm once the sun goes in. I love a firepit for creating warmth and interest in the garden at night – they are the current must-have garden accessory so hurry if you want one. Take a look at Garden Trading’s website or check out Dunelm’s Outdoor Log Burner.

3. Create an atmosphere
Garden lighting sets the mood and it can transform an ordinary patio into somewhere magical. Solar lights create a soft glow, while strings of twinkly string lights and lanterns set a dreamy mood.

There are so many choices of lighting now, I have even seen some in the shape of monkeys – hang them in a tree for a tropical jungle effect. If you want to highlight a particular feature, go for LED Spiked lights or uplights. My neighbours have installed lighting to illuminate a beautiful old wall – it looks stunning.

4. Plan your tablescape
When setting your outdoor table take your lead from nature. Look for floral-patterned table-cloths, wicker tablemats and napkins in organic fabrics. Use bright coloured glassware – green tones work especially well with the colours of the garden. Casually arrange herbs and seasonal flowers in jam jars, and light lots of tealights in glass containers when the light fades.

5. Make it cosy
Create a cosy ambiance with an on-trend outdoor rug. Check out Weaver Green for some lovely designs. Swap out your cushions for new ones in a bright Ikat pattern for a boho vibe, or a botanical print for a tropical feel. Don’t forget to have lots of blankets on hand for when it starts to feel chilly.

Now just pour yourself a G&T and enjoy your outside space, whether sharing a meal with family and friends or simply relaxing over cocktails and nibbles.