It is true what they say: money can’t buy happiness. That being said, we all know that a little outdoor luxury in life can be beneficial for mental wellbeing. This is important to bear in mind, as we’re going to look at ways of making your outdoor spaces and garden rooms feel more luxurious. These are ideas for living with a little more luxury while, at the same time – and importantly – not having to spend more than you’d like to. These are some simple updates that you can make to your outdoor areas, adding a little more elegance and making them feel more inviting.
Layering textures and materials
Minimalism is so often the key word in home improvement, but when it comes to outdoor spaces, unless you’re talking about the most opulent materials, minimal choices often just feel stark and bare. You’ll get a better sense of luxury by thinking layers. Outdoor rugs, soft throws and outsize cushions make any outdoor seated area feel swankier. Natural wood and chrome are ideal for hardscaping such as outdoor decks and walkways. Just remember to have some watertight storage for the soft furnishings; one rainstorm can make them feel a lot less luxe!
Stylish (yet affordable) furniture
One of the most enjoyable ways to use an outdoor space is to have a sit-down meal when the weather allows; it gives a sense of elegant freedom that is hard to achieve indoors. This is where rattan bistro sets come into their own, offering a comfortable space to sit, eat, drink and converse. Small side tables, lanterns and patio heaters can be included in the mix too, with the latter being hugely beneficial for those evenings when it’s touch-and-go whether the temperature is really high enough to make sitting outside a “go”. Focus on durable options that will still feel and look good with repeat use; nothing feels less luxurious than trying to ignore tarnished furniture.
Add glamour with the right lights
In the UK, even on the longest day of the year the sun will set close to 9pm, and if you’re enjoying an evening of entertaining, things will just be getting started at that point. So lighting is an element that needs to be borne in mind. Solar lights or candles can make for a cosy and sustainable option, while pathway lights that are staked into the ground also stand out as a great accessory. String lights are usually the star of the show here; the choice is yours as to how they should look, but flowery paper lanterns that call to mind the look of Vietnam’s Hoi An lantern festival are a very powerful choice.
Make use of nature
A lot of the most popular luxe outdoor ideas feel like bringing the indoors outside, which seems a bit of a waste. You’re in an outdoor space, so why not unlock the potential that offers? Planting small trees, painting up a planter and growing something aromatic, and filling hanging baskets with colourful flowers can really up the level of beauty in your outdoor space – and make it all feel that little bit more glamorous.
