How to Create the Perfect Outside Living Space - Laura James

How to Create the Perfect Outside Living Space

Creating an inviting and functional outdoor living space is all about combining comfort, style, and practicality. Our gardens have become more like the interior of homes, so why not tackle the space as you would in your own living room. Consider seating, tones patterns and colour that work together to bring the space to life. Here are some tips to help you design your ideal garden retreat. 

Maximise Your Space 

A garden corner sofa set is an excellent choice for creating a welcoming and casual seating area. It offers ample space for guests to relax and encourages conversation. The Haryln corner sofa set comes with matching garden armchairs perfect for extra seating and is finished with a beautiful natural rattan and wooden frame.

Harlyn 8 Seater Wooden Garden Dining Set with Corner Sofa & 2 Harlyn Dining Armchairs - Laura JamesThe Shiro generous corner sofa set is finished with a beautiful rope design and comes with a coffee table and plump cushions for comfort. If space allows you could add an occasional garden chair or two like the Seren relaxed rope garden chairs. 

Shiro Wooden Garden Corner Sofa Set - Laura JamesFor smaller gardens, consider a conversation set like the Mali or a modular garden sofa that can be reconfigured to suit your needs. 

Mali Wooden Garden Sofa Set with Coffee Table & 2 Mali Chairs - Laura JamesAdd Functional Furniture 

Include a statement curved coffee table like the Sohan kidney shaped concrete garden table or the terrazzo side table to provide a convenient spot for drinks, snacks, or decorative items. Multifunctional pieces, like storage benches, can also help keep your space tidy. 

Zaliki Concrete Garden Coffee Table - Pearl Terrazzo - Laura JamesOpt for a garden parasol like the beautiful fringed Oia in olive green to keep your outdoor living space both stylish and shaded. Alternatively, choose a parasol with LED lights to add atmosphere on summer evenings.  

Oia Olive Green Parasol - 2m Round - Laura JamesUse Accessories to Add Colour & Texture   

Use outdoor cushions and throws to add pops of colour and texture to your seating. Opt for weather-resistant fabrics to ensure durability.

Salcombe 50x50cm Garden Cushion Cover - Teal and Cornflower Blue - Laura JamesA large outdoor garden rug helps define the seating area and adds a cosy, indoor feel to your garden. Choose a rug with a contemporary pattern or neutral tones to complement your furniture. Incorporate decorative pots, planters, and ornaments like a vase or ceramic candle holder to personalise your space and tie in with your garden's aesthetic.  

Tomar Fibre Cement 38.5cm Garden Planter - Rustic Grey - Laura JamesGarden Lighting  

Outdoor lighting is essential for creating atmosphere after dark. String festoon lights overhead and dot solar lanterns around your outdoor living space to add a magical touch while ensuring practicality.

Carnaby 10 Bulb Garden String Lights - Extendable - Beehive Bulb - Laura JamesThe Brockhill portable lamp adds colour and personality to a wooden garden side table.

For a cosy vibe, consider adding candles or a garden set with a fire pit to provide warmth and a soft glow. 

By combining these elements, you can create an outdoor living space that is both stylish and functional, perfect for entertaining or simply relaxing in your garden. 

Shop all Laura James garden now.  

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