7 ways to style your outdoor space

With summer well underway, it’s time to spruce up your outdoor space. Whether you have acres of land, a rooftop garden, or a small balcony – get outside and soak up that sun in style with the best foliage and furnishings around.

By Tamara Kelly
last updated

1. For those with a pool

building with swimming pool and grass lawn

(Image credit: Future PLC)

If you're lucky and live in a country hot enough for an outdoor pool, then you need to make sure you have enough furniture to cater to the countless guests that will flock to your door when the sun comes out. Sun loungers are a must, while this corner sofa and outdoor dining table are an added luxury, perfect for poolside parties.

2. Relax in a hammock

balcony with hammock and plant in pots

(Image credit: Future PLC)

There's surely nowhere more relaxing for an afternoon nap than an outdoor hammock. Padded with cushions, and hidden away amongst the plants, this is the perfect place to get a bit of cosy peace and quiet.

3. Create a secluded space

table with chair arrangement near banana trees in grass lawn

(Image credit: Future PLC)

Shrouded by palm trees, this hidden spot is the only place to be on a hot summer's day. These orange chairs add a welcome pop of colour, while the delicate white table is the epitome of summer chic. You can even add flamingos for a little company.

4. Find the outdoor table

outdoor table with chairs and bulb lighting arrangements

(Image credit: Future PLC)

If the weather is on your side, you'll spend most summer evenings sipping Pimms and entertaining friends, so you'll definitely need a killer outdoor table. This tree-trunk masterpiece will never go out of style and adds a little fun to an otherwise plain outdoor space, plus it's the perfect size for a social dinner (minus the cabbages).

5. Then find the outdoor chairs

outdoor balcony with chairs and garden

(Image credit: Future PLC)

You can't have the perfect outdoor space without somewhere to sit, but why not turn this necessity into feature with some fabulous outdoor chairs. These bold ones from Moroso add a summery splash of colour and eye-catching shape to this luxurious space - you'll never want to sit inside again!

6. Take advantage of location

balcony with sofaset and multistoried buildings in background

(Image credit: Future PLC)

Forget that skyline, we're more spellbound by this rattan sofa!
This idyllic balcony could have us captivated for days with its neutral colour scheme, water-front view and dream location - we'd be out here come rain or shine!

7.Don't always trust the weather

balcony with sofaset and wooden ceiling

(Image credit: Future PLC)

Given the temperamental nature of British weather, it's always worth having a cover for your outdoor area. Not only will this let you enjoy the outdoors while avoiding the rain, it acts as a saviour when the sun is that little bit too hot. Plus this rusty colour scheme will bring the heat, even when the weather won't!

Tamara Kelly
Contributor

Tamara was Ideal Home's Digital Editor before joining the Woman & Home team in 2022. She has spent the last 15 years working with the style teams at Country Homes & Interiors and Ideal Home, both now at Future PLC. It’s with these award wining interiors teams that she's honed her skills and passion for shopping, styling and writing. Tamara is always ahead of the curve when it comes to interiors trends – and is great at seeking out designer dupes on the high street. 

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