But outdoor
living isn’t just about fresh air. Over 72% of people say that sharing
meals outdoors improves their mental well-being, and 67% feel the same about
cooking in the open air. Yet without the right setup, many of us are missing out on
these simple joys.
To change
that, we’ve teamed up with award-winning garden designer Adam Frost to help you
unlock your garden’s full potential. Whether you’re after a cosy retreat, a hub
for cooking and entertaining, or a year-round sanctuary, Adam’s expert tips
will help you transform your outdoor space into something truly special.
Adam Frost’s Top 10 Tips to Elevate Your
Outdoor Space
- Harness the power of the sun:
To get the most out of your garden, observe how
sunlight moves across your space throughout the day. Identifying sunny and
shaded areas can help you decide where to plant flowers, position seating, or
even create a vegetable patch for optimal growth and enjoyment.
- Create a cosy sanctuary:
Design inviting corners by wrapping your seating areas with
greenery - low hedges, flowering shrubs, and ornamental grasses can create a
sense of intimacy. Consider sunken seating areas to carve out sheltered spots
for relaxing or dining with loved ones.
- Make smart use of your space:
Even small gardens can be highly functional with the
right design choices. Try training fruit trees along walls and fences to make
use of vertical space. This technique not only saves ground space but also
provides homegrown produce while adding greenery to your surroundings.
- Personalise your garden:
Make your garden a true reflection of you. Incorporate colours, textures, and scents that spark nostalgia. Whether it’s wind
chimes, water features, or materials that remind you of special moments and
places, those personal touches turn your space into a story. And it’s the
perfect place to make new memories too – think birthday BBQs or weekend pizza
parties under the stars.
- Grow your own fruits and vegetables
Growing your own produce is a game-changer! Fresh,
homegrown fruits and vegetables not only elevate your meals but also bring a
sense of satisfaction and connection to your food. Plus, edible plants add
texture, colour, and beauty to your garden throughout the growing season. They
are also perfect for adding fresh, delicious toppings to your BBQ dishes and
homemade pizzas, making your outdoor dining experience even more enjoyable.
- Cultivate fresh herbs
Growing fresh herbs
in your garden offers a fantastic way to create flavourful marinades for meat
and vegetables. Herbs like rosemary,
thyme, basil, sage, and parsley can infuse dishes with vibrant flavours that
elevate your cooking. When freshly picked, these herbs are packed with oils and
natural flavours, which makes them perfect for enhancing the taste and
tenderness of meat or grilled vegetables on the BBQ.
- Make your cooking area a real social space
Food is a great way to bring people together, so why
not make your cooking space the centre of the party? Set up a social cooking
area where everyone can gather, cook, and connect. Add a covered BBQ station or
outdoor kitchen to keep the fun going even when the weather turns. Outdoor
rugs, blankets, and cushions add comfort and warmth year-round, while string lights
or lanterns can set the mood after dark.
- Introduce water features and wildlife
Why not introduce water features, bird feeders, and
birdhouses to bring life and diversity to your garden? A pond, birdbath or
small fountain not only enhances the atmosphere but also supports local
eco-systems – turning your garden into a vibrant, living landscape.
- Engage all the senses
A truly immersive garden stimulates sight, sound,
smell, touch and taste. Use fragrant plants and mix textures like stone paths,
wooden planters, and soft foliage, to create a tactile, layered feel.
- Create year-round comfort
With a few clever additions, your garden can be just as
inviting in autumn and winter as it is in summer. Think gas patio heaters or
fire pits for warmth, and weatherproof cushions, blankets, and throws for
cosiness. A pergola or gazebo can offer shade in summer and shelter in colder,
wetter months – extending your outdoor season significantly.
With these expert tips, you can transform
your garden into a multi-functional, mood-boosting, and memory-making space
that works for you all year long. Whether it’s growing your own produce,
hosting alfresco feasts, or simply enjoying a peaceful morning coffee, now’s
the time to bring your garden dreams to life.
Head to the Gas Bottle Shop to purchase the gas bottle you need this summer season!
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