Rory Robertson
Whether you have acreage or a ‘yarden’ these stylish buys will upgrade any outside space
It turns out, you don’t have to be an expert gardener to ace creating an al fresco living zone or space. To prove it, we have gathered some cheap and chic pieces together, to help create a welcoming outdoor zone for work, rest or play.
ANYDAY John Lewis & Partners Brights Metal Garden Lounge Chair, £47.20
Evoking a certain Santorini charm in this distinctive Directoire Blue shade – a colour which brings a cool factor to any corner – this is part of a range of brightly toned metal outdoor pieces from ANYDAY which includes a bench and a selection of coffee tables. It’s fab when styled up with other pieces from the range but it also works as a single chair to create a quiet corner on a space-limited balcony or terrace.
ANYDAY John Lewis & Partners Spectrum Solo Portable DAB+/FM Digital Radio, £40
Whether you’re planning to listen to your favourite podcast, or want to create some background music for a garden party, this soft touch portable radio will set the right tone. Available in a selection of eye-catching colours – choose the hue to suit you.
Talking Tables Boho Graphic Outdoor Rug, £40
Rugs are often more associated with the indoors, but in recent years they have also become increasingly popular outside too. Why? Rugs help to zone a space, and when it comes to a garden or balcony they can help establish the feeling of a curated ‘room’ even in an outdoor environment.
John Lewis & Partners Fusion Diamond Print Garden Floor Cushion, £24
A deep padded floor cushion or bean bag is likely to create that relaxed vibe that everyone loves. Spread two or three out on top of an outdoor rug to create the ultimate garden cinema or chillout space.
John Lewis & Partners Recycled-Effect Plastic Highball, £4
These highballs are so convincing you’d be forgiven for thinking they were real glass. With obvious safety and practicality advantages, plastic tableware makes a stylish addition when venturing into al fresco dining territory.
John Lewis & Partners 2.7m Striped Parasol, £60
A classic garden staple – the garden parasol in a stripe design for a Côte d’Azure-style coastal feel.
ANYDAY Deck Chair and Fabric Sling, £31.20
They’re considered a classic in garden seating design, and they’re as effective today as they were back in the mid 1800s when they first appeared on the decks of sailing ships. The ANYDAY Deck Chair and Fabric Sling is made from FSC Certified Eucalyptus Wood and has a shower-resistant fabric sling.
John Lewis & Partners Outdoor Festoon Solar Lights, £18
Just like indoors, it’s also possible to create different levels of lighting (and for different purposes too) out in the garden, balcony or terrace. The Festoon Outdoor Solar Lights are perfect low-level mood lights and won’t send your electricity bill soaring.
