Inside Out

We have all been in lockdown for a long time now and this has made many of us focus on our homes more than ever. With restrictions still in place we find ourselves enjoying these interior spaces with our loved ones and will undoubtedly continue to do so for quite some time to come. Although the Great British weather is unpredictable we have been blessed recently with some fabulous Mediterranean worthy days. As an interior designer I also like to hone my skills to create beautiful outdoor living spaces from the smallest of balconies, courtyards or terraces to the larger gardens and patio areas where we can enjoy the sunny days.

As the climate is changing so rapidly within the UK we find ourselves al fresco dining almost all year round just like our European friends, certainly extending into those balmy Autumn evenings. If we find the chill in the air a little too bracing we can always add a little heat with a stylish chimenea or fire pit.

By bringing the indoors outdoors we can create some beautiful exterior spaces that can even outshine our living room at times. Patio areas that flow from inside to out with flooring that merges seamlessly through bi-fold doors really does add an extension to your living space.

Courtyards and terraces can be designed to appear more spacious than the area depicts with a clever use of colours; light Mediterranean style colour washed walls will give you the Amalfi feel whilst creating the illusion of a larger space.

Couple this with beautiful pot plants and with a wide variety of seating on offer these days it is a far cry from the white plastic furniture we all used to have.

Protection from the elements can be easily achieved with a covered section, whether they are pitched, flat or even retractable. Tiling or thatching can enhance your exterior design complementing other features you may have.

If you love to entertain in your outdoor spaces then you can always add in features like an amazing BBQ area, or a pizza oven; always a hit with guests. With all of these fantastic features and versatility why would you ever want to eat inside again!

Personally I like hanging chairs or a swing chair that will take you back to your childhood. All of this makes for a great place to share the spaces outside with loved ones and make memories.

Time to pour the Pimms and sit back and relax in the sun. If you want to go the whole hog maybe get in the hot tub!

Why not call JHD Interiors for a free no obligation quote. We have one of the most comprehensive selection of outdoor fabrics on offer and we can certainly explore how we can enhance your outdoor space to make it the tranquil garden of your dreams.

Julie Handforth-Doidge
Proprietor / Interior designer at
JHD Interiors in Norwich
01603 722 385
www.jhd-interiors.co.uk