10 easy ways to improve your outdoor space
Your garden is more than just an outdoor space; it’s an extension of your home. So, just like you would any other room, why not make it an appealing space to be in? Not only will making small improvements to your garden create a welcoming oasis for yourself and your guests to enjoy; but it can also increase the value of your home. Having the benefit of your own green space is already a favourable position to be in when it comes to selling your home; but creating the best garden possible will make the offering much more inviting to potential buyers.
Freshen up
Our top tip is to keep your garden clean and tidy all year round. The easiest way to ensure the area is free of clutter is to create storage. This can be something like a little cubby to hide cushions or throws when they’re not in use; most rattan furniture comes with built-in storage. You can also build shelving that is out of view to place gardening tools on; not only does it keep the area organised, it also makes things easy to find when you need them.
When it comes to cleaning your outside space, it is important to ensure your patio is well maintained by sweeping it regularly and scrubbing the slabs every few months to stop buildup. It’s important to make sure that you are using the appropriate amount of force when cleaning a patio; some slabs may not be suitable for pressure washing, so be sure to check which method is best. Weeding your outside space is also of high importance; this easy-to-do chore will make a huge difference to the appearance of shingle, patios and flower beds. Whilst using a chemical weed killer might seem like the quickest and most efficient solution; there are plenty of natural measures you can take in order to protect wildlife. Even boiling water or household vinegar can work wonders in killing off young weeds.
Add pops of colour
When we think of gardens we tend to think of the natural hues of green plants and grass; breaking up these tones is a great way to add interest and intrigue to your outside space. Colourful plant pots are the easiest way to add accents of colour into the area; and offer you the chance to get creative with your colour pallete. There really is no end of options when you are playing with colour in the garden as you don’t necessarily need to complement colours, just as mother nature intended.
Be realistic
If having the time to maintain a lawn is a luxury you just don’t have, investing in artificial grass is the perfect way to go; as there’s no need for mowing, strimming and treating. With the realistic look and feel of artificial grass, there is no reason why this solution shouldn’t be used as a like-for-like replacement for your lawn. It is durable, weatherproof and robust, minimising your monthly upkeep.
However, there are still many pros to keeping natural grass in your garden; as it offers great biodiversity and, of course, is far more environmentally friendly overall. If a lack of time or a change in ability has left you concerned about the upkeep of your lawn; consider hiring a company to maintain the area for you. This stress-free option will keep your garden looking its best with minimal effort on your part.
Islanders, please gather around the firepit
How could we write a blog on gardens without mentioning the outdoor piece everyone is raving about – the firepit? Ranging from an off-the-floor bowl for lighting a mini bonfire, to an extravagant designer cube with built-in marshmallow toasting zones; there is an option for every budget and garden. This outdoor luxury creates a focal point for the rest of your garden. It will also ensure your guests are kept warm and snug in the chillier evenings.
A lick of paint
Sheds don’t have to be brown, you know, and fence panels come in a variety of colours these days. There are lots of different shades of outdoor paint to chose from in your local hardware store. We’s strongly recommend getting testers of these paints just as you would if you were painting the walls inside your home. Remember, the garden is a continuation of your inside space, so decorate it with the same attention.
When it comes to choosing a colour to paint your wood panels, it is important to consider what is on and around them. For instance, if you have trailing or crawling foliage, you may wish to paint in either; a dark blue colour to create a contrast and really make the natural greens pop or magenta for a more dramatic look. We suggest steering clear of pale colours; not only do they become grubby quickly, they can also make your garden space seem smaller than it actually is. Preparation to be done before you paint your fence or shed, including preserving the wood and selecting a brand of paint that will protect the wood too. You will also need to consider the maintenance and upkeep of these painted areas.
Under the covers
With the unpredictable weather we experience in the UK, it is not a bad idea to create a covered area of the garden. Whether it be with a pergola and a canopy or a semi-permanent gazebo; these can create some welcomed shade in the summer months or a well-utilised shelter when that incontestable rain arrives.
We’re a ‘succa’ for this tip…
If you are not the most green-fingered of people, then consider planting things that don’t need much care and attention. Succulents are a great plant that can flourish without the need for daily watering. Consider creating a rockery to keep your succulents healthy and thriving in an area that looks edgy and well-designed in your garden with relatively no maintenance. Also, take note of perennial flowers as these are plants that tend to grow quickly; and will either regrow year after year without the need to replant them or stay evergreen throughout all seasons.
Mirror, mirror on the… fence
Any interior designer will tell you that using a mirror will make a room seem much bigger than it actually is; the same is true for outdoor spaces too. Hanging a large mirror onto a fence or an exterior wall creates the illusion of more space; especially in a busy area of the garden, where there are lots of plants or trees. The reflection of the leaves and flowers in the mirror forms a repetition, making it seem like there is more greenery. Mirrors can also add depth to a smaller garden or even replicate the look of an additional window; flooding even more light into an already bright outside space.
Lights, camera, action
Lighting your garden is a must to be able to utilise the area all day and late into the evening. String lights come in an array of designs, from dainty fairy lights to statement bulb-shaped lights to hang from your fence or around the pergola. These can be a simple but pretty way to keep the area well-lit. Solar-powered lights are great as with many gardens not having their own power source, these are the perfect solution – charging themselves throughout the day, they shine bright all night. Another great tip to utilise is floor lights as well as string lights to create different levels to your outdoor space. Floor lanterns and light up globes are trendy pieces that can enhance pathways and illuminate flower beds.
Contact us
If you are on the lookout for a property that already has a gorgeous garden, begin your search today by contacting our team on 01634 570057.
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