6 Simple Ways to Max Out Your Outdoor Space
I’ve always said maximalism isn’t just for interiors — the outdoors are fair game too! If you’re spending more time outside these days (as you should!), I hope you’ve created a space where you can entertain and soak up the rays. If you haven’t, then pull up a lawn chair and let’s talk! First off, it doesn’t have to be fancy — it just needs to survive neglect (if you know, you know!). Whether you’re looking to have some fun with your outdoor living space or simply tidy things up, here are some tips and tricks to help you curate your very own backyard oasis.
Gravel Garden
If you’re living in the city, have a go at using pea gravel or classic pavers. They require so much less maintenance than grass, and I love how it gives the space a clean and manicured feel like the parks and gardens of Paris!
Shade and Dappled Light
Planting trees that surround your oasis is my go-to way of adding the perfect amount of shade and light to an outdoor space. I love when speckles of sunlight peer through the branches and leaves — it’s an added touch of warmth and romance for those bright summer afternoons!
Sofa Under the Sun
Maximizing the comfort of your backyard is always a good idea! I love the idea of creating an outdoor living room with a sofa and some comfy cushions. When it comes to fabrics, I am absolutely obsessed with Serena Duggan’s new line of outdoor textiles right now — her performance prints are perfect for sofas, chairs and pillows galore!
Mirror, Mirror
Mirrors can do wonders to a backyard! I love to use them to reflect light throughout the day or have it pick up different corners of the yard from different views. I’ve hung one on my garage which allows the pink petals from my weigela bush to reflect off the surface — it’s simply magical!
Blooms of High-Impact Contrast
Whether they’re hung or in planter boxes, I love finding flowers that pop against the exterior paint colours. I always add the strongest colours in my seasonal baskets — the contrast can be so impactful and totally unexpected!
Dining Al Fresco
Is there anything better than dining under the stars? I long for romantic summer suppers out on the patio stones. Bringing it all together is as easy as setting up a simple folding table, grabbing a couple of dining chairs from inside, and draping things with a tablecloth. To add a bit of fun, I edged this Lee Jofa fabric tablecloth with black grosgrain ribbon and set it with flowers picked right from my garden!
So, see? Your backyard oasis awaits! For more tips on how to max out your city garden this summer, grab the June issue of Style at Home. My dear friend, Christy Wright, wrote a piece about yours truly in her “Scents & Sensibility” article. I shared a thing or two about garden glory that might be some nice afternoon reading while sunbathing on the patio.
XO,