With life in lockdown turning our normal day-to-day lives upside down – we’re all understandably feeling a little bit lost and out of sorts.
Thankfully for our small family run business, we are able to continue creating and delivering our reclaimed furniture to our wonderful customers whilst abiding by government guidelines and social distancing rules. And for that, we are incredibly grateful.
However, we know the uncertainty right now is hard for us all. With our entire world now confined to our own four walls, we wanted to focus on the little ways in which we can bring a little ray of sunshine to our everyday.
Now more than ever, we are grateful for the little sanctuary our gardens or outdoor spaces at home offer. Whether your garden is your children’s (and husbands!) penalty shoot-out zone, your ‘Chelsea Flower Show’ award entry, or your perfect little suntrap for some much needed me time. We wanted to share with our lovely customers and followers’ different ways that you can transform your outdoor space into the extra room you need during the lockdown and the brighter days beyond.
Planning Your Outdoor Space
With the famously unpredictable British summer in full swing, it’s time to throw open the patio doors and maximise your garden space. One of the most used areas of our homes during the warmer months and a safe sanctuary for us during lockdown, our gardens deserve just as much attention as any bedroom, bathroom or living room.
Our patio or garden is the main spot we spend our summers in. From sipping homemade summer cocktails to intimate al fresco brunches; family dinners under the warm setting sun to giggles and summer games – we have created the perfect How-To guide to help you plan your outdoor space to make the most of the Great British summer from the safety of your own home.
1. Plan around your family and your space
When looking to revamp your outdoor area into the extra room you and your family need, the first most important decision you need to make is about how your family want to use the space.
Your garden design should revolve around you. Outdoor dining furniture is a great way to ‘zone’ your outdoor space and add multiple uses for your garden. However, if your family likes a kick about, or you’re a keen ‘grow your own’ gardener – make sure you consider this when planning where your furniture will go. By defining areas of the garden around your family’s needs you know that whatever additions you add into the mix will complement the space and use perfectly.
2. Follow the sun!
Another consideration to bear in mind when planning your multi-use space is where the sun moves throughout the day. If you’re an early bird and want to enjoy a brunch and coffee whilst reading in the beautiful morning sun – then see if you can plan your outdoor dining space around the morning sun. Obviously, this may be easier for some gardens than others! But if you have the space and the sunshine – then make sure you consider when and where you are most likely to enjoy it throughout the day.
3. Clear the space
Now that you have a rough idea of how you want to use your space – it’s time to get your hands dirty and have a good clear out. With most of us searching for tasks we can do to maximise the extra time we now have at home; this is the perfect opportunity to get the kids and partners involved! Jet wash, weed, paint and remove any garden furniture or equipment you don’t use anymore.
Before you get too carried away clearing your garden, bear in mind that many things can be recycled, reused, and re-loved in so many different ways! We are all about breathing new life into old – so maybe store items which you can either sell, give away or spend some time upcycling into new accessories for your beautiful new outdoor space. Think like Heyl and always reuse and re-love where you can!
4. Invest in garden furniture that lasts summer after summer
With a beautifully blank (green) canvas – now it’s time to invest the perfect garden furniture that will last you summer after summer. Not only should you consider the style and design, but also the size and quality of your latest addition.
Hopefully with your outdoor living and dining space now clearly defined in your garden, define the perfect furniture dimensions according to your space and consider a seating arrangement that compliments your lifestyle and family.
Outdoor benches work well for those who enjoy entertaining (post-lock-down of course) as they don’t restrict the number of seats. Whereas individual chairs and seats offer more flexibility to move and rearrange the space where necessary.
Smaller low rise coffee style tables can help define a chilled out roof terrace vibe, whilst our sturdy and stylish outdoor dining tables can create the perfect al-fresco dining room for the whole family.
All of our made to order outdoor furniture is built by hand and we can also offer designs bespoke to your dimensions if our standard sizes don’t accommodate your space. See some of the items we have created for customers here. In true Heyl style, our outdoor furniture is built from reclaimed sleepers, 20cm thick, with reinforced British steel bases to ensure our furniture is built to withstand years and years of even the most unpredictable of British summers.
5. Get that perfect garden glow all year round
Picking the perfect outdoor lighting arrangement for your newly defined outdoor space not only extends the time you can spend enjoying your garden, but it can also create a different mood and atmosphere throughout the day.
Popular festoon lights can create a soft relaxed glow, the perfect romantic backdrop for summer evenings sipping cocktails and snuggling up under the stars. Whilst solar powered fairy lights offer another way to create a calm welcoming light… enticing you to go out and enjoy your garden evening after evening.
6. Time to accessorise!
With your perfect furniture arrangement on order and your exciting new garden space taking shape – now you can start accessorizing. Not only can you get excited about refreshing your outdoor tableware collection, either through some crafty upcycling or newly purchased items, but you can also start adding those finishing touches that will really enhance your outdoor space.
Plush furnishings such as outdoor cushions and fluffy throws can soften the look and feel, whilst adding that warm welcoming touch. Whereas vibrant pops of colour through accessories, plant pots or even a brightly coloured wall can create a fresh revitalising space that makes you smile.
Remember to re-use, recycle and re-love old accessories and bits and bobs where you can. It’s fun to get crafty! We recommend creating a Pinterest board to collect your inspiration, then see what you can do to save some budget and add that personalised touch to your space. Creating something new from something old is a great feeling – we promise.
We hope that our guide has inspired you to get creating and embracing your outdoor space! We have loads of ideas on how you can transform your outdoor living and dining space – however big or small. So feel free to drop us a message to see how we can maximise your space and budget for a summer to remember.
