Top outdoor living trends in 2023/24
As we enter the new year (how quickly did that go?!), we look back on the biggest and best trends of 2023 that are likely to carry forward into this year. January is the perfect opportunity to start planning your home and garden for Spring 2024, a new year means a fresh start or spruce up!
The biggest misconception of outdoor living is that it can only be enjoyed in the Summer when it’s warm. When winter hits in the UK, most people cover their outdoor furniture and kitchens and say goodbye to outdoor living until the following Spring. Believe it or not, you can enjoy outdoor living ALL year round, you just need the correct equipment to extent your time outdoors!
Below, we discuss all things outdoor living, from furniture, lighting and water features, to firepits and kitchens so do keep reading!
Furniture
When thinking about outdoor furniture, treat it just like the inside of your home; consider what it will be used for, who will be using it, how often and what time of day and year. This is a very important factor when designing an entertaining space.
Given the unreliable UK climate, we know to look for furniture that is made and built from strong, robust materials to with stand the harsh elements. It’s also important to opt for comfort and style of course. Find a happy medium!
Top tip – Cheapest is not always best; it’s worth shopping around and paying a little extra for outdoor seating and tables that are good quality and that come with a warranty.
If you have limited space, or an awkward shaped garden then the most effective solution is to go bespoke with your furniture. This is a great idea when renovating your whole outdoor space as you can incorporate your specially built outdoor furniture into the whole landscape design from the start. This however is the most expensive option!
Lighting and heating
We believe outdoor spaces deserve to be used all year round, even in the depths of winter. Investing in high quality outdoor heating is essential, you’ll thank us later! There are two options to stay cosy whilst entertaining outdoors; heaters not only keep you toasty and allow you to make the most of your outdoor area, but also look fantastic! Firepits really do steal the show by keeping you warm as well as acting as a source of light, but they’re also a traditional and natural statement of ‘outdoor living’!
There are many heating options to choose from, including electric patio heaters and firepits. For more information on heating trends, click here!
One of the biggest trends in recent years and no doubt in future, is to hang lights from walls and nearby trees and bushes. This not only transforms the look and feel of an outdoor area, but allows you to carry on entertaining even when the dark nights draw in.
Alfresco dining
Alfresco dining has become an integral part of the British Summer lifestyle and we’re all here for it! A barbecue has become a staple household item now a days, especially in Summer months.
Nothing can beat firing up the barbie, and inviting friends and family over to enjoy an evening of dining and entertainment outside in the fresh air. Outdoor cooking has transformed from a simple standalone barbecue to the full monty outdoor kitchen in recent years. We predict this will keep going beyond the causal BBQ!
Cover up!
Having a cover over your outdoor space is a lifesaver in the less predictable months. It means you can enjoy the outdoor lifestyle without getting absolutely soaking! Now a days there are a million different options and sizes of coverings, with huge price ranges; pergolas, awnings, patio covers, gazebos…the list goes on!
Browse our highly recommended;
Water features
A water feature is a no brainer for us. Why?
- It creates a relaxing, calm ambiance to your outdoor space. The sound of trickling water is therapy to everyone!
- Introducing a water source to your garden attracts wildlife such as birds who will drink and bathe!
- A water feature also has an element of entertainment and modernness for those that like to impress guests!
There are many different styles to help you create the zen outdoor lifestyle, whether you have a large or small space, a water feature will alway makes a beautiful statement! These can be either solar or plug-in so no need to worry if you don’t have outdoor sockets!
We hope this helps you create the perfect setting for outdoor dining and entertainment for 2024!
