Forget parasols, I just spotted the ultimate luxe-looking garden shade alternative at Argos for hosting outside this summer
Heatwave or downpour, this weatherproof option will see you through
Hosting outdoors in the UK can always be a gamble thanks to our unpredictable weather. Usually, that would mean preparing for rain during a BBQ, but right now it's all about protecting guests from the heat, and I've found the perfect stylish shade solution on sale at Argos, the stylish Argos Home Garden Gazebo.
The best parasol is a great garden shade idea for a small space, but if you have a larger garden, I'd recommend investing in a gazebo, which will provide a larger, more stable shaded area. The Argos Home garden gazebo is usually priced at £170, but right now it is reduced by 20% to £136, making it a bargain price.
A gazebo is the ultimate multi-tasking outdoor hosting essential, protecting guests from rain and sun, whatever the weather. However, they're usually green or navy monstrosities, but not this one. This beige gazebo wouldn't look out of place around the pool at a luxury resort.
The Argos Home garden gazebo measures 3m x 3m, so it can easily cover an outdoor sofa or dining set. It has a solid steel structure, making it more suitable for withstanding rain or a slightly windy day than a standard parasol or shade sail. However, it can't be used in high winds or during storms.
It has four side panels that, when drawn back, look like elegant draped curtains. However, if the weather takes a turn for the worse, the sides can be zipped up to protect from extreme sun or rain to create an outdoor room. As a bonus, it also includes net curtains, which can be drawn to help protect against flies and midges during an evening outdoor dinner.
The gazebo is the perfect neutral base for most outdoor living room ideas. I love how Argos has styled it with a corner outdoor sofa, rug and some striped soft furnishings to add a splash of colour.
However, I think it would look equally as stylish with two sunloungers and a side table underneath for a cooling spot for guests to recline. To keep it looking luxe in your own garden, I'd recommend sticking to the best garden furniture in natural wood finishes or wicker and weaving in colour through the outdoor cushions, and a tray or vase on an outdoor coffee table.
This summer, Argos has been one of my favourite places to snap up outdoor decor to up my hosting game in my small garden. Here are some pieces I'd style the gazebo with to create the ultimate space for your guests to lounge this summer.
This is one of the top-rated outdoor sofas at Argos, with numerous five-star ratings. It's also a bargain price for a corner sofa!
These striped outdoor cushions are a hidden gem at Argos Home. A blue stripe will go with everything, and is the perfect backdrop to a more jazzy statement cushion or throw.
An outdoor rug helps pull an outdoor living room look together. This simple but stylish one is currently my favourite at Argos.
For a pop of colour, you can't go wrong with pink. If you have used pink and purple in your planting scheme, the flash of colour on the cushion will help tie the whole space together.
I couldn't resist including something from the playful Habitat x Scion range, and I adore the Lionel pattern on this outdoor bean bag.
When the sun goes down, make sure your gazebo is still well lit with a pretty floor lamp.
Are you opting for a parasol or gazebo to shade your garden party guests this summer?
