BLURRED LINES: Embracing seamless transitions between Interior and Garden Spaces

The lines between indoor and outdoor living are becoming increasingly blurred as our climate warms and most of us spend more time both working and relaxing at home. At this time of year, doors are flung open and we adopt an outdoor state of mind. So often we end up enjoying a garden from a terrace or seating area in proximity to the interior living space or kitchen and although there’s a case for a seamless open plan link, why take the path of least resistance when you can create a considered junction between interior and exterior. Here are some of our top tips for extending your living space into the garden and making sure you can enjoy your investment in the garden from inside.

Let the light in…

When devising a space (be it inside or out) light is key. Where does the sun fall, how do boundaries and trees within a space cast shadows at different times of day. Large format glazing is becoming increasingly popular and can provide viewports to the garden. Creating a view or focal point from inside the house is as key for the summer as it is for the winter. You can get as much from a view of the garden in December sat next to an open fire, as you can on a late June summer’s evening - it’s all about context. Lighting is key and picking out elements within the garden during the long dark hours of winter means you get the benefit of it year round even from inside.

Continuation adds context..

It goes without saying that repetition in a garden is a crucial element as it offers you context, linking you to the house and other areas in the garden. Considering the colour palette of your materials as well as planting, can really help with this and is easily achieved assuming you select a well balanced material mix. The trick is to review as many samples as you can before deciding what to use in a space. Texture and tone add warmth and when coupled with planting can really bring a design to life. Consider your furniture selection, warmth and comfort doesn’t have to stop at the back door.

Planting over paving...

Assuming it doesn’t interfere with structural elements around the property such as drainage or your foundations, planting in close proximity to the house is a tried and tested way of bringing the garden and the interior together. Underplant full height windows rather than paving up to them, use a path to move you through a planted space before you get to a seating area. Create views through planting from inside that make you want to explore.

Matt Evans - The Garden Room - Living and Landscape Studio thegardenroomstudio.com