Cambridge Edition June 2019

Meanwhile, at Aria, a new outdoor furniture range includes bamboo and canvas deckchairs and vintage console tables. “Dining outdoors doesn’t mean you have to compromise on style or comfort,” says Morgan Meredith from Aria. “This summer we recommend neutral tones, rattan furniture and tables flooded with flowers.” When it comes to summer meals with family and friends, who can refuse the delights of a barbecue? Better still, elevate your outdoor entertaining into something special by creating a ‘dining room’ area to eat in. Christopher Ray, outdoor category manager at B&Q, shares his expert insight on how to perfectly ‘zone’ your outdoor space. He explains: “Zoning is an emerging trend that champions structure and allows you to carve out a space for everything, whether it’s an exciting play area for the kids, a barbecue-cum-dining station for the grown-ups or a chill-out zone for family and friends. Position your entertaining area within easy access of the barbecue or kitchen and create different levels in your garden as clever way of adding depth and an illusion of space. Plus, a raised decking area specifically for barbecue prep makes it easier to keep children away from the heat of the grill and the hustle and bustle of cooking. Finally, add ambience with statement outdoor lighting.” Meanwhile, borrowing from the French penchant for long get-togethers outdoors, Dibor’s Gallic-inspired tableware is ideal for breakfasting on the patio or enjoying late night drinks. “There’s no need to compromise on style with paper plates and plastic cutlery: the modern garden party is a stylish affair,” says Sarah Boardman, creative stylist at Dibor. “Adorn your outdoor dining table with brightly coloured glassware, or decorate

your patio area with rustic lanterns for a beautifully natural summer feel.” To add a touch of luxury – LA style – factor in a firepit, chiminea or wood-burning stove (they are practical purchases, as well as on-trend additions to the garden). Dimitri Pappas, director at My Furniture, which offers a range of firepits, says: “Once the sun sets, and the temperature drops, evenings can be enjoyed for longer with the warmth of a firepit. They offer the perfect place to gather with friends, or even for a quiet moment alone.” For an upscale feel, pair an open fire with the crafted, customisable rattan and woven furniture from interior

design service Juliettes Interiors. The new generation of artificial grass from Carpetright, meanwhile, means goodbye to weeding and mowing the lawn. Finally, Vicky Angell, outdoor living buyer at John Lewis & Partners, says that a big trend for this summer is ‘bohemian style’. “The key to achieving this is to move away from ‘matchy matchy’ furniture and towards bold, individual pieces that bring you joy,” she says. “Consider pairing a simple garden sofa or table with a bright statement chair in clashing colours. Build in layers of tactile accessories, with eye-catching prints and textures, and you can create an eclectic yet personalised space that you’ll love spending time in.” l

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