We always know when spring is here and summer is on its way in my family – my son-in-law decides to wear shorts every day and my husband brings out the garden furniture. During the pandemic we re-discovered our outside spaces, but after an English winter your garden furniture may need a bit of a refresh. Here are some ideas for creating a new look for your alfresco space.

An outdoor room
If you’ve got the space, it’s a good idea to have separate areas for relaxing and entertaining. Create a comfortable outdoor living room; inject a laid back atmosphere with a lounge set or a corner sofa.
Ever popular all-weather rattan or bamboo-effect sets are good choices for a classic-rustic feel. Add a coffee table and a statement chair – on-trend Egg chairs are featuring particularly strongly on Instagram (check out B&Q’s Apolima chair).

Patio pieces
To make your patio summer party ready, you may be looking to invest in a new outdoor table and chairs. I am loving the latest rope effect dining sets – Barker and Stonehouse has a great selection at great prices.

Create a contemporary look for your al fresco dining with colourful metal and woven designs. John Lewis’s Salsa range comes in bold Jolly Green or bright Two Tone Yellow, and Jennifer Newman’s splash stool comes in a variety of fun, bright colours.

Balcony chic
Zhuzh up your balcony space with a charming French café style bistro set and transport yourself to Paris. There are some lovely options available from Habitat and OKA, perfect for early evening cocktails or breakfast outside on a sunny morning.

For a more cost-effective option, check out foldable bistro sets available in a range of on-trend colours and add some cheerful planters.

Sustainable options
For that all important retro vibe, look no further than your local charity shop, eBay or online auction houses. Search out unusual pieces with potential for upcycling. The latest vintage look is whimsical and fantastical faux bois, a pre-art deco style originating in 19th century France.

If your existing furniture is a bit winter worn, it’s never been easier to up-cycle using specialist garden paint. Most top brands have a range of colours to choose from. I particularly love Rustoleum’s soft chalky green Aloe, and it comes in an easy to use spray can.

Seasonal extras
There are so many options now for dressing up your year-round entertaining space. A firepit is a must for keeping warm on those longer evenings. Add some comfort and sunny colour with zingy outdoor cushions (La Redoute has a great selection). I’m also a real fan of Weaver Green’s recycled plastic outdoor rugs. Now you can enjoy your outside space in style – just put your feet up, sip an Aperol spritz and dip into your summer read.