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Once you have set the scene, it is worth taking time to think about what you really want from your outdoor space to ensure a wonderful summer season. Gardens large enough in which to entertain will benefit from a charming outdoor table and chair set, while an attractive bench in a sunny spot might work better in a small courtyard. Whatever your requirements, Next has an extensive range of appealing new furniture and accessories that will suit every style of garden and stand the test of time (and the unpredictable British weather).
Dining
One of the greatest pleasures you can enjoy in your garden is a leisurely meal with friends and family – whether this is a long lunch that stretches into the evening, a barbecue under blue skies, or a quiet morning coffee in the warmth of the early sun. To make the most of every opportunity, choose a set of chairs and a generous table so that there is always the potential to accommodate an unexpected extra person or two. Our pick of the crop is Next’s new ‘Helsinki’ extending dining set, which can be expanded and contracted depending on the number of people you are entertaining that day. For something a little more casual, the ‘Stockholm’ corner dining set offers laidback dining in style.
Lounging
To really enhance your garden or outdoor space this season, you need to find a tranquil, sheltered spot to create an inviting space in which to relax. A comfortable sofa or chair set will provide the perfect place for casual drinks with friends, or curling up with a book on a warm afternoon. We are particularly drawn to the handsome ‘Stockholm’ two-seat sofa, which looks elegant enough to use indoors, as well as the ‘Dorset’ multi-use dining and lounge set, which can be configured in several different ways to create versatile layouts ranging from a daybed to an informal dining set-up.
Lighting
Do not underestimate the importance of lighting. A well-placed lamp or solar light will help to create the right ambience in the garden as the sun sets and dusk descends. Solar lights are particularly handy as you do not need to remember to charge them ahead of spending time outside – simply leave them in a bright sunny spot during the day and they will be ready when you require them later on. Strings of fairy lights always cast a charming glow, and Next’s ‘Rope Solar Line’ lights are ideal for suspending decoratively above your table. Give some thought to the colour of the lightbulb you use as one with a yellow hue will create a softer, more congenial backdrop to your evening gathering.
Tableware
A stylish range of tableware will elevate even the simplest of dining settings, but it needs to be practical as well as aesthetically pleasing when it comes to outdoor use. Next’s ‘Bronx’ picnicware is wonderfully distinctive and can be used outside without worry thanks to its sturdy melamine composition. It is shatterproof, incredibly durable and suitable for all manner of occasions involving children and adults alike. The range includes salad bowls, serving spoons, platters, plates and more, so you can fully equip yourself for alfresco entertaining with a single matching set.
Smaller spaces
If you are living in the city with only a limited amount of outdoor space, working within the confines of a balcony or small front garden, it is unlikely that you will have room for a large dining set. In this case, you need to think creatively about what solutions might work best for you. Take inspiration from the chic streets of Paris and opt perhaps for a classic bistro combination. Next’s ‘Dorset’ bistro chair set or its ‘Stockholm’ bistro set in tan brown are a perfect option for two people – whether you happen to be dining, enjoying a cocktail or glass of wine, reading or simply relaxing after a busy day.
Finishing touches
The latest house rules dictate that outdoor accessories can be pretty as well as practical. Just as you would add a cushion or blanket to a chair or sofa inside, you can make the same style-led choices outside. Next offers a smart selection of cushions that are perfect for adding colour and pattern to pieces of furniture in more neutral finishes. If you are lucky enough to have a larger area at your disposal, why not consider using outdoor rugs to delineate different spaces and to create zones within your garden. Next’s striking indoor/outdoor vinyl ‘Tile Border’ rug offers an inexpensive – and durable – way to achieve this effect.
Shop the Next Home & Garden collections in selected stores and online at Next.co.uk*
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