AS THE DAYS GROW LONGER AND THE SUN SHINES BRIGHTER, WHAT BETTER TIME TO GIVE YOUR GEMLIFE ALFRESCO SPACE A FRESH, SUMMERY MAKEOVER.
GemLife Manager of Interior Design Jennifer Kyle has curated her top five tips to help you make the most of your alfresco area and create an oasis that’s perfect for sipping cocktails, hosting brunches, or simply unwinding under the summer sky.
1. Create a green paradise
Add lush greenery to your alfresco space to infuse life and vibrancy. Hanging plants, potted herbs, and vertical gardens can transform even the smallest nooks into a green paradise. Make use of wall-mounted planters and railing hooks to maximize vertical space, and don’t forget to water your plants to keep them flourishing throughout the summer.
2. Play with textures and patterns
Elevate your alfresco space with textured or patterned soft furnishings such as cushions, colourful throw rugs or pillows. Updating your soft furnishings and decor is an easy seasonal styling trick that can transform your alfresco space quickly and cheaply. Jennifer recommends lightening up your soft furnishings’ palette or adding a pop of colour with new cushion covers or tablecloths. There is a huge range of affordable decor items available that can add to a summer vibe.
3. Add an outdoor rug
Another way to change up the look of your alfresco area is with an outdoor rug. Not only does a rug work wonders in delineating distinct zones in your alfresco space, but it can also complement your summer-time colour scheme, adding a pop of personality – or a cosy touch – that brings your outdoor area to life.
4. Set the mood with lighting
Lighting plays a pivotal role in creating a cosy, inviting atmosphere for summer evenings. From floor lamps and hurricane lanterns to garden bollards and candles, lighting adds ambience to your outdoor space, letting you set the mood for your get-togethers. Jennifer says fairy lights, string lights and festoon lights are an especially effective way to add instant ambience. “There are so many different options available, and many are budget-friendly too. Lighting not only extends your enjoyment of the alfresco space into the night, but creates a magical glow that’s hard to beat,” she said.
5. Just-right seating
When you’re not hosting guests and spending quality time with loved ones, comfortable seating becomes essential for outdoor relaxation. Jennifer suggests investing in seating that’s just right for sinking into while sipping your morning coffee or losing yourself in a good book. Adding an ottoman is a great way to elevate your comfort, letting you put your feet up when unwinding. “If you’re looking to save space, explore chair and ottoman sets where the ottoman conveniently tucks away beneath the chair when not in use,” she said.
With these top five tips, your GemLife alfresco space will become a summer sanctuary where you can relax and entertain with style. Embrace the sunshine, savour the gentle breezes, and create lasting memories in your chic outdoor oasis.