Outdoor, Interior

Kelly Roden, owner of Meliora Kitchens, Bedrooms & Bathrooms in Bawtry explains how to make the most of your outdoor space.

The last few months have given us lots of time to reflect and for me a huge part of that was starting to appreciate our outdoor space. We did major renovations on our garden a few years ago but there are so many touches it needs to really make it work as an outdoor living space.

When we have the ability to spend more time outside not only is it good for our bodies but also our minds. I also really feel it needs to have the same comfort level as our indoor spaces. This then allows the two spaces, indoor and outdoor to become truly connected into one much larger living space for the whole family. Furniture is paramount to this such as chairs that can be utilised both indoors and out and easily stored. The addition of an outdoor rug can really help create a more cosy feeling to areas and add a touch of design to the garden.

Having covered areas is another way to make the garden more usable all year round, such as a shaded spot when the sun is out. A pergola is a quick and easy way to achieve this and by adding a trailing clematis or wisteria you can soften hard lines and add colour.

Creating focal points and pockets of interest also help initiate the indoor/ outdoor effect. This can be achieved by varying height planting beds, paved areas that are interspersed with grassed sections and gravelled sections. Lighting is also key, it helps to set the mood and adds not only a level of security but will help with zoning the different areas too. A string of festoon lights with some solar spots here and there can elevate a garden in seconds.

Kelly Roden Meliora Kitchens, Bedrooms & Bathrooms Tel: 01302 711007. Email: info@meliora.uk www.meliora.uk The ultimate finish to your outdoor space is an outdoor kitchen - a built in barbecue and pizza oven covered for use all year round. Built in seating and heaters make a space like this fun for all members of the family and you can get really creative with tiles, wooden slat cladding and soft furnishings to make this space a true extension of the home. Planting herbs are an excellent addition and add to the sensory experience of being out of the house and the overall feeling of wellbeing we get from connecting with nature.