Garden Design (2015)

Relaxing

The clean lines of a modern suite sit comfortably in this contemporary elevated space; the design is enlivened by chequered cushions that add just the right level of contrast.

KEY INGREDIENTS in any garden, furniture, heaters and cooking facilities allow you to relax, socialise and entertain, while also contributing to the garden’s style.

CHOOSING SEATING

Whether choosing a dining set, incidental seat, sofa, hanging chair or hammock, shop around for a design that is fit for purpose and makes a statement, just like a piece of sculpture, and suits the character of your garden. Many can be bought from garden centres, but also look online or consider commissioning a craftsman to make a bespoke item. Period and rustic furniture can be sourced from architectural salvage outlets and auctions. Also consider the pros and cons of seating materials, which include:

“To create a sense of unity, use the same materials and style for built-in seating as you’ve chosen for features elsewhere in the garden. And for comfort, ensure the seat depth is between 40 and 45cm (15-18in).”

AMANDA PATTON

FREE-STANDING SEATING

Furniture that can be independently moved and arranged is known as free standing and includes chairs, tables, sofas, stools and swing chairs supported on frameworks. This type of seating is easy to integrate into a design, but ensure your patio or area of hard standing is large enough to fit your chosen furniture and that it suits the style of your garden.

Free-standing seats: points to consider

FIXED SEATING

Seats constructed as an integral part of the design can make exciting design features, and include wide copings on raised beds or pond edges that double as seats, and benches with useful storage areas beneath.

Fixed seating: points to consider

CREATING SHADE

Although shade may be cast by adjacent buildings, trees or structures, additional shielding from strong sunlight may be required. Instant and permanent shade can be created by roofed structures, such as an atrium, summerhouse or arbour, or use pergolas with slatted roofs to produce dappled shade. Fabric supported on structures, such as a gazebo over a dining or sitting area, affords temporary shade, or you could use a sail slung between uprights, which can be quickly dismantled in gusty conditions. Umbrellas or parasols are flexible options; those with adjustable arms attached to weighted bases are ideal for outdoor lounges and dining rooms. Check that canopies can be adjusted to provide shade where it’s needed and have ratchet systems to aid opening. Also ensure they are sturdy and are not blown inside out easily. Although most canopies can be left outside, they are best kept under cover in winter.

Shading: points to consider

HEATING SOLUTIONS

Relaxing and socialising in the garden is dependent not only on the comfort of your furniture but also the outdoor temperature. Night temperatures can dramatically contrast with day after sunset, particularly in early and late summer, and supplementary heating can be used to increase your enjoyment of the garden over a longer period, temporarily warming areas to make them more comfortable while also providing atmospheric lighting.

Fixed fires act as dramatic focal points, but consider the effects on the environment when choosing designs and fuel types, as some are more energy efficient than others, and use heating units sparingly. Solid fuels should be smokeless and always ensure open fires and naked flames are kept away from children, pets and flammable features. Always buy from reputable suppliers and follow safety instructions.

Heating systems: options to consider

The following provide heat of different character.

WINTER PROTECTION

Many types of garden furniture require some protection over winter. Check the durability of the materials before you make your purchases and establish the nature of any guarantee. Cushions and soft furnishings need dry, airy storage facilities either indoors or in a shed or sealed unit outside over winter. Plastic covers afford protection from rain and frost for wood and metal furniture.

FUEL OPTIONS

Solid fuel Includes wood, charcoal, peat, coal, fuel tablets, and pellets made from wood. All have different burning characteristics and heat outputs; some are quicker to burn, others lasting longer. Solid fuels are bulky and must be stored in dry conditions to retain combustibility. Use of some solid fuels (eg, coal) is restricted or prohibited in many urban areas due to toxic emissions. Locally sourced wood or charcoal is considered the most eco-friendly option.
Gas Supplied as natural gas or liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and used for heating, cooking and lighting. Gas is normally supplied as an extension to a domestic system, but must be installed by a qualified engineer and include flues or chimneys to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Portable, refillable canisters of propane gas are often used in gardens. Never use gas units in confined spaces.
Electricity Used to provide heat and lighting in gardens, this is the most eco-friendly fuel source. Whether straight from the mains or battery supplies, power is pollution free, clean and instantaneous. Outdoor mains outlets need to be completely weatherproof and installed by a qualified electrician. Check that equipment can be powered from the mains; some heaters require a transformer. And always fit a Residual Current Device (RCD) to shut down units if power leaks or cables are damaged.

If your furniture will remain outdoors all year round, ensure it is made from materials that are weatherproof and will not fade or deteriorate in strong sunlight, such as this sofa in marine-grade faux leather.

Fixed seating can make an important visual statement in a garden and needs to be planned into the design process.

DESIGN BY AMANDA PATTON

When used as a focal point or incidental feature, furniture makes a powerful statement. Select the design and colour to help establish the style characteristic of the space.

DESIGN BY CHRIS GUTTERIDGE

Shade can be created with movable canopies and parasols, or permanent structures such as pergolas, the degree of cover determined by the number of slats or use of climbing plants.

DESIGN BY ANDREW FISHER TOMLIN

Use a hammock to create a relaxing area shaded by a tree. Secure it to sturdy supports or buy a freestanding cradle.

Fire pits provide a dramatic way of heating the garden and can either be sunk into the ground or set on legs like this large, dish-shaped metal unit.

DESIGN BY JOHN WYER

Gas-powered outdoor fires offer a clean and convenient way to warm a snug seating area, and the heat output is also easy to control.

DESIGN BY WILSON MCWILLIAM