Outdoor Space

Whether you have a balcony, a yard or a garden -it is rather lovely to have some personal outside space. Having lived and visited some major cities, I am aware of the planning that is required to achieve the beautiful public garden spaces found in Hong Kong, New York and London among many others.

As much as the planting is important, so too is the design and the flow of space. Do you want to have a barbecue, somewhere to dine, somewhere to gaze at the stars or to grow your own vegetables or herbs?

There is no doubt that some of the Feng Shui or Greek Classical elements are often included in great gardens: Wood, Fire, Earth and Water.

Many gardens or balconies either have an open Chimnea or are partial to a barbecue or two. There are now many very attractive Biofuel fires that are suitable for indoor or outdoor use- require no chimney and run off bioethanol fuel. This blog previewed the one shown here from Indian Ocean back in 2010.

Water whether still as in a pond or birdbath, or running as a fountain or waterfall is also hugely popular.

There is something rather soothing about the sound of running water, and without going all Feng Shui, you can kind of feel the flow of energy that the representation here brings.

There are many water features suitable for small areas  available, or why not consider a natural pond?

Lighting is as crucial as warmth if spending time outside. As much as moonlight or candles may be all the low level lighting required for a small area, larger areas may need more illumination.

This fabulous lamp is available on import from the USA.
I don't think I have ever seen anything that comes close to this in the UK.

There is the Levada patio lamp which is good value at under £150 and quite a neat size.

I rather like this quirky outdoor chandelier. I have seen many similar styles using coloured glass too. This is from Etsy 

Tea lights in jam jars hung from branches, outside fairy lights, garden or patio LED lights, pool lights...the choice is improving all the time.