Creating a relaxing space in your garden 

Keen to create a spot in your garden where you can sit and relax? Endless research points to the positive impact that nature can have on our wellbeing, so it only makes sense to embrace our gardens so that we get the most out of them when the weather is good.

For some, the garden might be a more unruly space, so carving out an area where you can unwind will help you enjoy being outside and getting that all-important vitamin D.

Here’s what you might want to consider.

Set a budget

As with any form of renovation, no matter how big or how small, you should draw up a budget. This way, you can avoid overspending. There are plenty of online budget planning tools online, making the process even easier. If you have a budget in mind, it will help you make more considered choices when choosing furniture or deciding whether to employ a landscaper, for instance. The last thing you want when planning a relaxing space in your garden is to become stressed over money.

The perfect place

Before you get started with any plans, take time to observe your garden. Work out where the sun hits at certain times of day. It might be ideal to choose an area where the sun shines in the morning or after work so that you get a chance to enjoy it. Just make sure you bear in mind how hot certain areas could get in the summer – perhaps you could pick somewhere with a nearby tree for some shade? Consider whether the type of furniture you envisage will work in this area. Ideally, you’ll need flat, stable ground so you can perch chairs or tables without any hassle.

Incorporate lighting

Lighting is key to setting the mood, whether indoors or outdoors. The right garden lighting can offer functional and aesthetic value, which is key to helping you feel settled in your garden, even when the sun goes in. For the best effect, go for a warm-toned, soft glow that kicks into action when the sun starts to set. You could choose garden solar lights that help you reduce your carbon footprint so that you can light up your garden guilt-free. 

Utilise nature

Nature is key to any garden and the more you do to encourage it to flourish, the more relaxed and at home you’ll feel. If you consider yourself an impatient gardener, you can seek out quick-growing veg crops and flowers to add some life to the space. If you plan to put a little more time and energy into your garden, you could enhance the space with fragrant plants such as lavender or jasmine. Use gardening as an opportunity to add a splash of colour to the space too.