Who said that you only need to pay attention to your garden during the summer months? I think that instead of neglecting our outdoor spaces during the colder months, we should be giving them some much needed attention. Nobody wants to be decorating and shuffling things around the garden during summer – you should be enjoying the weather instead. So, now is the right time to prepare your garden, patio or terrace to get them in shape for the warm, sunny days of summer.

I’ve been looking for ideas on how to refresh my outdoor space for a while, so I thought I’d share some of my favourite outdoor living trends today. Whether you want to uplift your outdoor space or are simply curious about what others are doing with their outdoor areas, today is the day you’ll find out and, hopefully, get some inspiration for your own space.

Structures that add privacy and shelter

Designer Shade Solutions, retractable roof specialists believe that retractable roof pergolas are one of the top outdoor living trends this year, and I couldn’t agree more. Retractable roof pergolas are innovative pergolas that feature a retractable and tilting roof.

Privacy, shade and shelter are essential requirements when choosing the perfect outdoor structure. Retractable roofs offer that and much more! With a retractable roof pergola you can be sipping on your favourite drink during the warm days with the roof completely open; reading a book in the shade as the roof slabs can easily tilt; or doing some yoga with rain pouring down. The roof can easily close, open or tilt.

Add a garden building

A garden building is a fantastic way to add something new to your outdoor space. Garden rooms, log cabins, offices, summer houses - whatever you choose, you can be sure to add a space you can get a lot of joy from. Garden buildings also have the benefit of adding value to your home, should you ever decide to sell in the future. A garden building will ensure you can use your garden year-round, so add some heating and comfy features for a space you didn’t even know you needed until you got one.

Quiet gardens

Gardens, and outdoor spaces in general, have become more and more areas where we go to relax after a busy workday. To make our gardens even more tranquil, Rachel Bustin recommends adding soothing colours, relaxing scents and comforting sounds. This could be swaying ornament grasses or a garden full of flowers in soothing colours. Create your own little slice of heaven and turn your garden into the perfect retreat.

Edible gardens

Show off your green thumbs by creating an edible garden. As Better Homes & Gardens explains, “Millions of people began gardening during the pandemic. Motivations varied from the desire to be outdoors to wanting a new hobby to fill the time at home.”

Homegrown veggies, fruits and herbs are simply fabulous, and a lot of fun to grow too! Creating an edible garden will not only give you a chance to enjoy delicious homegrown foods but will also allow you and your kids to see your favourite foods grow from seed.

Front garden as the new back garden

“It’s time to give your front garden some attention too.” says Twin Mummy and Daddy, and I love this idea! Give your front garden as much attention as you give your back garden (if not more!). After all, the front garden is the first impression your guests and visitors have when they first visit your home. You want to make it as beautiful as possible!