Glorious Garden Rooms: How to Transform Any Outdoor Space
Words by Michaela Quinn
September 08, 2021
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3m
When it comes to interiors, we often talk about ‘bringing the outdoors in’ however this year, we’ve been inspired by our new found appreciation for nature and the great outdoors to breathe life back into our often-unforgotten outdoor spaces.
With a little flair and imagination, your garden can be a real extension to your home – another room if you will. And as the seasons change, there’s still plenty of time to make the most of the last of the summer sun and the early autumn warmth.
From small balcony to spacious backyard, here are our top tips to help you transform your outdoor space into a glorious garden room, no matter the size or setting.
Accessories are the answer
Accessories can really give your garden or patio a new lease of life and evoke the sense of a room, bridging the gap between outdoor furniture and traditional interior furnishings.
Take inspiration from the rest of your home and style your outdoor space like you would any other room – think cushions, throw blankets and decorative ornaments.
Perhaps one of our favourites takes on our ‘glorious garden rooms’ theme is @kateshomelyhome’s truly unique upcycled greenhouse. Using soft furnishings, lighting and greenery, Kate took on the ultimate lockdown project and transformed her unused space it into an idyllic garden retreat.
“I’ve added a rug to make the space feel cosy and the string lighting is soft and welcoming. It’s such a lovely place to relax in.” – Kate.
Top tip – Foliage printed cushions and faux plants like those styled by Kate above are ideal for small outdoor spaces that lack natural greenery.
Style for all seasons
There’s no reason to stop spending time outside when summer ends.
Layer up with cushions and throws that not only look great but keep you warm during the colder months. An outdoor rug will provide a warming texture underfoot while also giving the illusion of being indoors.
Make life al fresco a little cosier like @melanieamccrindle who has styled her small patio around our Hestia Firepit, transforming the space into an enchanting retreat with an added layer of warmth.
“During the past year or so, our outdoor spaces have taken on the role of an extra room of the home. There’s no better time to give a little love back into these spaces with a fresh, cosy restyle, creating a place to be enjoyed all year round.”– Melanie.
Top tip – A large area rug will make a smaller patio look bigger than it is, while smaller rugs can help create ‘zones’ in larger gardens so you can really make the most out of your space.
Bridge the gap between indoor and outdoor living
Being limited by your lack of outdoor space doesn’t mean you can’t create a glorious garden room. City dwellers and apartment residents, take note – there are plenty of clever ways to blur the lines between indoor outdoor living.
Our rustic storage and accessories are the perfect backdrop to @mishkashoe’s collection of house plants. Styling with faux foliage is a great way to embrace nature without having to worry about looking after living elements, and you can add more or less depending on how much room you have to play with.
Top tip – Whether you want to create an urban jungle like Michaela or simply add a touch of greenery to your space, opt for planters and pots in wicker or concreate to layer up on natural elements in your space.
Want to create your own glorious garden room? Shop our latest collection of must-have garden accessories online now. And don’t forget to tag us in your transformation on social media - @barkerandstonehouse #GloriousGardenRooms.
Or for further info on how to enhance your outdoor space, check out our garden seating ideas and top tips for a cosy winter garden.