How to get your garden ready for the summer holidays

We're looking ahead to the summer hols and thinking about how you can improve your outdoor space ready for playdates and grown-up entertaining

Of course the weather has taken a turn for the worse, just as we decide to write a feature on designing your garden ready in time for the loooooong summer holidays where Prosecco-fuelled alfresco playdates will be inevitable… hopefully. So as soon as the sun shows its face again, you’ll want to be ready – read on to find out how you can improve your garden space, with some big ideas, and some smaller ones.

Set up an outdoor kitchen

Ikea’s BÅTSKÄR outdoor kitchen with charcoal barbecue

The outdoor kitchen has become something of a craze and increasingly companies have introduced their own standalone outdoor kitchen units that look the business but are practical, too. These can vary dramatically in price, but we’ve seen some great ones on the market – Ikea’s latest BÅTSKÄR unit looks slick and comes with a sensible price tag, but we’re also loving the Savannah Hybrid Outdoor Kitchen from Atkin and Thyme and the Long Island BBQ & Integrated Storage Cabinet from Cox & Cox if you were really splashing the cash.

If you’re going to DIY it instead, just think about materials – oak looks lovely, but iroko and teak are more durable, while for worktops, porcelain, Dekton or Caesarstone are good choices for UV resistance and being weatherproof. Also consider where your outdoor kitchen is – you’ll want it in a more sheltered and shaded spot, ideally near the house, but also not too close due to smoke; the further away it is, the more likely you’ll want an additional sink and fridge to hand.

Zone your space

Charles & Ivy offers various screening options

Screens and trellises are really useful for creating defined garden zones. Opt for a stylish modern screen with a built-in planter to hide an unsightly wall, fence or provide much-needed privacy. Take a look at contemporary metal designs over the usual timber trellis styles for a fresh take and a long-lasting finish that won’t age and weather over time. To create a sense of enclosure, why not plant climbing plants like jasmine or wisteria on the trellis to allow them to trail up and around?

Pergolas are also really popular right now and these are great for zoning larger outdoor areas such as creating a covered dining or lounging area. Whether you go for one fixed to the wall or freestanding, they’re ideal for protecting your family from the elements and providing much-needed shade in the summer. Although pergolas can be made from a variety of different materials and come in many different finishes, rust-resistant aluminium is probably the best low-maintenance option that will stand the test of time.