Through innovative design and clever use of space, materials and
products we can all create external living spaces that are an extension of our
home, blurring the boundaries between the inside and outside to create our own
version of an outdoor room…
Design-wise, I’ve always believed that whatever we
normally do inside, can also be done outside – and in an increasingly urban,
space-pressured environment, this concept has never been more important.
So where do you start and how do you go about making
your choices? There are 2 things to remember when you’re thinking about
materials for your outdoor space.
1. Firstly what suits your needs, and
2. Secondly what suits your own personal style and
the style of your home
After that, the rule is there is no rule!
Any material imaginable, as long as it withstands
the elements, can be a part of the hardscape and often, the more bizarre the
substance, the more interesting the result. Furniture and accessories
personalise your space so the hardware is as much a part of the garden as the
plants. Now more than ever the range of products and materials available means
that you are only limited by your imagination.
As a designer, I tend to lean towards materials that
are simple and clean with an uncomplicated form that complement rather than
compete with other elements in the garden.
I always try to ask myself, where does this material
come from? I always favour an environmentally responsible approach to any
planting scheme or choice of materials and products.
But mostly your outdoor room is all about you and
your own personal needs, so don’t be afraid to try something new and unusual.
Experiment with the materials that frame the garden, define the areas for
different activities, and elevate the landscape and featured plants. Let your
creative juices flow – this is where the real fun begins.
We love seeing your work – so don’t forget to post
photos of your outdoor rooms in our forum.
For more information, pick up a copy of my book The Source Book – Second Edition, which covers hundreds of materials and products for outdoor spaces and is a must-have for design ideas and selecting materials for your outdoor space.
