Summer is the season when a light-filled conservatory really comes into its own, as you can sit with the doors wide open as you dine, entertain, or simply relax with a glass of wine. The connection between your home and garden comes into sharper focus, and naturally you will want the outdoors to be just as beautiful and inviting as within.
Here’s a look at some styling ideas for your summer outside space, whether it’s a country cottage garden, a sleek and contemporary area, or even a minimalist paved yard.
Plant for seasonal colour
We are hitting the peak season for bold and vibrant colours, which draw the eye and are immediately uplifting. Make the most of vibrant blooms such as geraniums, dahlias, cosmos, and petunias, which are easy to grow and will do equally well in beds and borders or pots and containers.
If you have a wooden conservatory that is painted in sophisticated heritage colours such as soft greens or greys, then you may wish to choose a more classic palette to complement this. Go for flowers with subtle colours such as pastel roses, soft blue delphinums and white hydrangeas.
Also consider the interior design scheme of your conservatory: look for colours that will echo the hues of the soft furnishings, walls, or artworks to create a polished connection between the outdoors and indoors.
Create depth with layering
A simple way to add depth and interest to a rather uninspiring outside space is to bring in layers of greenery. Choose plants to provide different textures and heights, such as tall grasses, lavender and thyme contrasted with more structured shapes such as clipped box balls.
If you have some time and money to invest in upgrading your garden, consider installing tiered landscaping, moving gradually outwards from your conservatory or adjoining patio. This helps to lead the eye naturally outwards, while providing plenty of variety and interest.
For the finding touch, frame the view with symmetrical potted trees either side of the conservatory doors.
Place focal points
Spend some time sitting in your favourite spot in the conservatory and assess the view. Are there any features that you would like to elevate into focal points, or any places that would benefit from a new feature? For example, you could add a stone bird bath, a statue, a seat, or a large ornamental pot to sit in your line of sight.
If you want to invest in a more luxurious option, consider commissioning a bespoke sculpture or artisan work such as a sundial or water feature that reflects your personality, or emphasises a connection with the local area.
For example, if the area is known for a certain type of wildlife, timber, or stone, you could take this as your influence of materials and subject matter. These touches will make the view from your conservatory feel even more special and meaningful.
Use ambient outdoor lighting
Outdoor lighting can be more than merely functional. If you often sit in the conservatory in the evenings, enhance the view with some discreet garden lighting that will allow you to enjoy the outside space even after dark. Use low voltage uplighters at the base of favourite trees or plants, and line pathways with low level solar lights.
Soften patios or garden structures with festoon lighting. This will create magical and luxurious touches to your garden as you watch the moon rise and the stars appear.
Use mirrors to expand the view
If you have a compact garden or back yard, consider strategically placing a large mirror on a fence, shed or wall so it reflects the sky, a key feature or planted area of the garden. This will create the illusion of a more spacious view from your conservatory. In smaller gardens, less tends to be more, so avoid overcrowding it with pots and ornaments.
Even in larger gardens, be mindful of creating a well curated space that is flowing and uncluttered, as this will create a more restful view from your conservatory.