Blog
Summer’s on its way!
Friday, May 24, 2024
It may not feel like it, but summer is on its way and whether you are travelling to far flung destinations or staying at home, you will soon be enjoying lazy days and sunshine, at least some of the time! So take the time to transform your garden, so you can relax and enjoy summer when it arrives. It’s 80% inspiration and many instant changes are possible even if you’re thinking of moving. With careful planning, if you’re preparing your property ready to market or are renting a property, the changes don’t need to be expensive or permanent. Here’s some food for thought for every budget and ideas you can make your own.
Start small, with one focal area and create a designated space for socialising –– make the most of any outside space whether it’s a patio, roof terrace or balcony. Find some outdoor dining furniture and reinvent your space ready to entertain. New tables inset with bespoke gas fired barbecues or wine chiller compartments have the WOW factor or keep it simple and freshen up existing wood or rattan furniture with a splash of paint and new accessories.
Enclose your space to add privacy and make it feel like an extra reception room linking house and garden. A pergola with climbing plants and lattice panels adds a “roof” and “walls” while parasols or awnings create shade. Choose fragrant plants and scented foliage like jasmine, lavender and honeysuckle to make your haven even more relaxing. For real outdoor comfort, install a hammock or swing seat where you can relax.
Invest in some good lighting for your outdoor “room”, paths and steps so you can enjoy your garden once the sun goes down. A mix of lanterns and solar lights will make your garden magical after dark. Add a central fire pit to enhance the beauty of your outdoor room and don’t forget some throws and cushions for added warmth.
A garden room provides you with extra living space and done well, it can add value so choose one that’s in keeping with your home and garden. For best results buy from a specialist supplier and hire a builder to install it. If you are on a limited budget or need something less permanent, have fun converting an existing shed. With a coat of paint, lighting and some well-chosen accessories you can create a relaxing place to unwind.
For the ultimate in relaxation, a hot tub is pure indulgence, but there are many factors to consider such as privacy and access to the house. Once full it may weigh as much as 2 tons, so will need strong foundations! Hire of home entertainment equipment has really taken off so you could always try before you buy by hiring one for a weekend and even add a big screen set-up for the Euros or Olympics too!
Whatever you decide, it’s important to choose things that you and your family will really enjoy. Whilst garden improvements may add “Wow” factor and make your property appealing to a wider audience of buyers or tenants, they may not actually add to the value of your home, so it’s worth checking before you invest significant sums.
For a free appraisal of your property for rental or sale and advice on how to add value indoors or out, contact your local Frost Partnership office. Then put your feet up, relax and enjoy the summer.
