The Great Outdoors: How to Create a Magical Atmosphere in Your Backyard
As the seasons change, our outdoor spaces become an extension of our homes. Whether you’re looking to create a tropical oasis or a cozy cottagecore retreat, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll explore the top outdoor decor trends to try this summer, from bold and bright to soft and serene.
Image: A tropical outdoor space with bold colors and natural textures
Add a Touch of the Tropics
Fancy something bold and bright? Then swap the bland backyard for a tropical vibe. Natural textures are key, but instead of going for artisanal types of wood and stone, opt for lightweight materials like bamboo and rattan to achieve a bohemian look. You’ll also want to go big on bright colors and patterns to fully achieve this tropical aesthetic. And don’t forget to bring the beach club vibes to your backyard by throwing in a bean bag or two!
Image: A tropical outdoor space with bright colors and patterns
Create a Layered Lighting Scheme
I hate to break it to you, but it’s no longer enough to simply string up some fairy lights and call it a day. If you want to truly ace the outdoor living aesthetic, you need to get sophisticated with your illumination. Think about investing in some proper bulb festoon lights or putting LED tubing down the side of your paving stones. But to create a truly cozy outdoor living space, you’ll need to also have some ambient lighting options on hand. Grab some rechargeable or battery-operated portable lamps, and as the nights get shorter, these lamps will create a magical atmosphere.
Image: A cozy outdoor space with layered lighting
Embrace Biophilic Design with a Stand-Out Living Wall
Create a Cute Cottagecore Outdoor Set-Up
Quaint and rather frilly, cottagecore is an aesthetic that genuinely sits right at the opposite end of the spectrum to chic and contemporary Mediterranean style. I blame Bridgerton, for making us all full head-over-heels in love with English country gardens (and Regé-Jean Page!)
To bring this period style into your outdoor space, make your garden a useful space by installing a small vegetable patch or herb trough, and also grow colorful flowers with romantic associations like roses or carnations. In terms of seating, pick a Parisian bistro set or a pretty picnic bench, and accessorize it with a patterned tablecloth, gingham seat cushions, and woven wicker place mats.
Image: A cottagecore outdoor space with a small vegetable patch and colorful flowers
Go Big on the Soft Furnishings and Accessories
It may seem pretty obvious, but just in case you weren’t 100% sure, I’m delighted to inform you that the outdoor living aesthetic is still very much a thing. So, make your patio or balcony the ultimate al fresco lounge by picking up some outdoor sofas and a coffee table that’ll work well for socializing with friends and family.
Or, for a more bohemian and budget-friendly vibe, swap the sofas for a bean bag chair instead. If you love color and pattern, I recommend trying to incorporate an outdoor rug and some comfy floor cushions. This can create a unique space filled with personality, and is perfect for relaxed entertaining in the sun.
Image: A cozy outdoor space with a bean bag chair and colorful cushions
Burglars Steal Heavy Bronze Ornaments from Garden
Police are appealing for information about a burglary that possibly happened overnight on July 31 into the evening of August 1. The offender or offenders gained entry to the garden and stole a number of heavy bronze garden ornaments.
Image: A garden with bronze ornaments
If you have any information about the incident, please contact West Mercia Police online, quoting incident number 514_I_01082023.
