Get Your Garden Summer-Ready: Creative Ideas for Outdoor Living

As the warmer weather approaches, it’s time to turn your garden into a summer-ready haven. A few thoughtful touches can transform your outdoor area into the perfect setting for al fresco dining, lazy weekends, and entertaining family and friends.

Here are our top tips to help you make the most of your garden this summer:

Create zones with style and function

Start by dividing your garden into zones that suit different summer activities—dining, relaxing, and entertaining. A great way to define these areas is by using natural borders like raised planters, decorative gravel, or even a trellis archway. Add charm and height by training climbing plants such as clematis or jasmine over the arch.

Set up a covered dining area

British summer weather can be a little unpredictable, so having a sheltered spot for outdoor meals is a smart move. Consider installing a pergola over a flagged seating area, and drape it with warm white string lights for an enchanting evening glow, allowing you to relax outside after sunset.

 Add soft outdoor lighting, a sturdy dining set, and weather-resistant cushions to make it both practical and inviting. For smaller spaces, a simple sail shade stretched across a corner can create an intimate and shaded eating area.

Perfect the BBQ placement

Barbecue season is a highlight of the summer—so make sure your BBQ station is positioned safely and conveniently. Choose a flat, open area away from fences, sheds, and overhanging branches. Ideally, it should be near your dining zone but not so close that smoke becomes a nuisance. For a polished look, add a prep table or outdoor kitchen unit alongside your BBQ for easy access to utensils, condiments, and drinks.

Add lighting for evening ambience

Make the most of long summer evenings with thoughtful garden lighting. Solar-powered lanterns, festoon lights along fences, and LED stakes along pathways add both safety and style. Highlight feature plants or a water element with spotlights to create a relaxing nighttime garden scene.

Include a relaxation spot and play space

Every garden needs a chill-out zone. Whether it’s a hammock under a shady tree, a couple of loungers with a parasol, or a built-in bench with outdoor cushions, this is your place to unwind with a book or a cold drink. Consider adding a fire pit or a chiminea for cooler evenings and year-round use.

If you’ve got little ones, think about how the garden can be a fun and safe space. Add a chalkboard wall, sandpit, or small splash pool, and make sure any steps or edges are safe and secure.

Think about practicalities

Don’t forget the practical details that make summer garden living easier. Storage is an important consideration: use a small shed, storage bench or waterproof box to keep cushions, garden games and BBQ accessories dry.

Summer is also a time to consider insect control. Simple steps like adding citronella candles or natural bug-repellent plants like lavender and mint can help to keep pests at bay. To prepare for prolonged dry spells, install a simple irrigation system or using water butts helps keep plants thriving without daily watering.

Add a splash of colour

Aside from all the practicalities, summer is a great time to use nature to create beauty. Inject personality with vibrant bedding plants, painted planters, or colourful outdoor rugs. Mix perennials with seasonal blooms to keep your garden looking lively through the season.

With a bit of planning and a few creative additions, your garden can become an extension of your home—ready to enjoy every sunny day (and even a few drizzly ones!) that summer has to offer.

Thinking of a new-build home with a garden made for summer living?  

The homes at Erris Homes’ Calder Mews development feature spacious gardens offering a blank canvas for your creativity. We’re currently building a wide range of 3, 4 and 5 bedroom homes.

To find out more, contact Erris Homes on 0113 531 0000 or caldermews@errishomes.com

To enquire about the latest availability at Calder Mews and arrange an appointment to view, contact Edkins & Holmes on 01422 310044 or enquiries@edkinsandholmes.co.uk