Summer socialising: Hosting garden gatherings in style
Now that socialising* is back on the cards and we can welcome friends and family back into our gardens and homes, it’s about time we realised we’re in the midst of garden party season.
*Remember to stay up-to-date with the latest government guidance on coronavirus.
The most luxurious architectural design manages to seamlessly transition from indoor to outdoor. Decking, pergolas and patios create areas of transition between the two spaces – creating harmony between outdoors and in. There is a myriad of options for making the most of your outdoor space and ensuring it is a truly stylish extension of your interior design. So grab a cocktail and join us for some al fresco summer socialising. Here are some hints and tips to make sure your garden party stands out from the rest this summer.
Number one: Bring the inside, outside
Patio furniture doesn’t have to be an old rickety table and chairs. The best luxury outdoor furniture brands don’t compromise on style for the sake of durability, they combine designer style with premium materials and durable yet sumptuous finishes so that they both look good and can withstand the weather. We recommend brands such as Roda (bottom left) for modular designs in stunning block colours; Gandia Blasco (top right) for architectural furniture with a Mediterranean vibe; Paola Lenti (top left) for minimalistic, nuanced forms and neutral tones; or Gloster (bottom right) for angular teak retro chic.
Number two: A table fit for a feast
Set the stage for bread passing and wine sipping with a mighty centrepiece table. We adore this Guerande rustic recycled teak table from Maison du Monde. Now what to put on it? Try layering mix and match folk patterns, earthy tones and lashings of flora and fauna for that woodland fairytale feel.
Or for that sleek, luxurious look how about this minimalist anthracite grey metal table. Contrast the masculine solid off-black of the table with bold pops of morish-inspired colours like deep blue, plum and nude pink for a lush, decadent vibe. We love Anthropologies dining range, especially these gorgeous dyed napkins and bright, dried flower bundles.
Number three: Chic chandeliers
A tip from our showroom: Italian designers Masiero have a sumptuous collection of outdoor chandeliers, so you can sit in lavish lighting without having to worry about leaving it out in the weather when you head back in for that nightcap. Nothing says decadence like a full crystal chandelier in your garden.
Number four: The bar
No garden party is complete without a few drinks. No plastic beer coolers here – why not set up a drinks station complete with ice and garnishes? Mocktails and 0% sparkling options are a must for designated drivers, kids and fellow non-drinkers. We recommend Belvoir’s delicious collection of sparkling drinks; we especially adore the Elderflower pressé or the Cucumber and Mint pressé – so refreshing!
A great way to save time and for a laid back party vibe is to premix cocktails for your guests to help themselves. We love these quick and easy prosecco recipes from BBC Good Food. Hibiscus prosecco anyone?
Number five: Keep your guests warm
We absolutely love this stunning Ercole concrete fire pit with its strong and statuesque design. Elegant yet rustic, it is designed to withstand weathering and look even better with the passing of time. It doesn’t just look good and keep you and your guests warm, you can even cook on it.
To really set an intimate, cosy scene while socially distancing, why not provide some luxuriously soft blankets for your guests? We adore Johnstons of Elgin’s collection of cashmere throws. Mix and match colours and patterns, drape them over the patio furniture or pile them high in a wicker basket for guests to grab when the evening chill sets in. Just remember to bring them in at the end of the night!
So we’ve created a homely spot that harmonises with your interiors and brought the indoors outside, you and your guests have sat around the table and indulged in delicious summer goodies. The chandelier has stolen the show and been the main talking point of the night. The conversation has flowed, as have the drinks and now you’re all warm sat around the fire or snuggled under cashmere blankets as the evening draws in, the embers crackle and cool, as does the party. Same again tomorrow evening?
