Backyard Makeover

3. Setting out the furniture
The biggest shift in outdoor furniture trends is to a more casual approach, favouring comfortable seating rather than formal dining table suites.
Comfort First ‘Let’s be more relaxed about it,’ says Matthew Cantwell. ‘When inside we sit at the coffee table and eat in front of the TV so why sit at a dining table outside?’

There’s a vast range of outdoor lounge settings and various other seating such as beanbags, hammocks and swinging chairs.

Fabric and Finishes Synthetic wicker remains popular but it’s the latest technology in weatherproof material that’s the biggest boost to modern styling and comfort.

‘It’s the fabric and upholstery that’s really changed,’ says William who also designs a range of outdoor furniture under the Robert Plumb brand. ‘When I fi rst started there was a very limited range but now there are great cushions with a lot of solution-dyed acrylic fabrics, and some are very reasonably priced.’

4. Bright is Right
Spaces that were originally set up to look sophisticated, especially if they were decorated more than a year ago, can start to look shabby. Injecting splashes of colour instantly modernises and adds a sense of fun.

To counteract the weathering, paint a courtyard wall, replace the bench of the built-in barbecue, paint the concrete pathway or update with bright furniture.
Using paint Porter’s Paints marketing manager Caroline Edwards says this season’s outdoor directions are for accent colours in vibrant greens influenced by nature, and shades of indigo and purple. Black is also back and being used for small spaces for a dramatic effect.

‘Paint finishes that give shine, an aged look or texture are popular, from timber washes to stone paints and metallic finishes,’ says Caroline.

5. Smart Storage
Another trend is to maximise space and storage with built-in options, like a customised bench seat made from the same timber as the deck and topped with weatherproof cushions. ‘Built-in furniture is a space saver more than anything,’ says Matthew.

Bench seats that open up to provide storage beneath are good for stashing kids’ toys, garden gear or the cushions when not in use.