Rachel Usher’s Outdoor Furniture Edit

Indoor outdoor living has become synonymous with our desire to reconnect with our homes, connecting with nature and the benefits that being outdoors has for our wellbeing has long been understood. This vigour towards our outdoor spaces is not a new phenomenon, England has an established history of cultivating a love for our gardens, and whether that be a small balcony or a larger bordered garden filled with perfectly clipped perennials, there is an opportunity to create an outdoor space that feels entirely connected to our indoor home, extending our opportunities to socialise or spend moments in peaceful tranquility.

Perhaps the biggest shift that we have seen in recent years is the concept of outdoor living feeling much more aligned with those choices that we would make with our interiors. Outdoor furnishings that can challenge the aesthetics of any indoor pieces, lighting that is elegant and textiles that can withstand an English downpour with out any need to run for the cushions. This choice has given garden styling a moment-du-jour.

Creating an outdoor space allows us to extend our interior personalities, creating a zone of living that feels considered and relatable to our interior narrative. With so many homes now having the benefit of large glazed openings, stepping over the threshold can feel almost seamless.

When curating your outdoor space, it is worth taking cues from the architecture of your home, as this is the backdrop against which your garden space will sit. Considering two main architectural groups of Contemporary and Classic, evolving these two styles into a range of elements that hang together will give your garden an elevated feel.

Contemporary homes can enjoy modern and simple lines that allow you to play with scale, keeping the elements free from fussy details and enhancing the beauty of simplicity. The Bodhi Andora dining set with built in bioethanol fire pit is once such contemporary piece - a perfect place to gather with friends and enjoy those long balmy summer evenings.

Not all gardens are positioned well for the elements, some south facing gardens benefit from dappled shade, whilst easterly exposed gardens can feel exposed and chilly. A Pergola helps to define a zone of space, creating an intimate area that feels cosy and simultaneously helping to create shade from the sun, and shelter from the breeze.

Adding layers of accent pieces will give your garden a thoughtful look, add contemporary garden lighting and tall hurricane lamps for ambience such as the cosiscoop, creating a sense of drama and a focal point.

Occasional tables that can be moved around give additional functionality, and well chosen pieces such as the Jonathan Charles outdoor round geometric wine table in faux marble can also be used indoors during the winter.

Dressing the space with throws and cushions will further add to the sense of home and keep those chills at bay.

Classic homes can indulge in more nostalgic pieces and creative schemes can be brought to life by choosing candy cane colours or more festival inspired touches such as tassel trimmed parasols and fun coloured tableware.

Keeping classic schemes timeless requires turning to traditional shapes that give a sense of by-gone summers resplendent of childhood memories amid foxgloves and rose gardens. Classic cane furniture, with elegant shapes that will never be out of fashion. The Petra lounge dining set is a perfect example of how traditional outdoor furniture is never out of style, pair with a drinks trolley such as the Tarifa for serving Pimms or cloudy lemonade, making entertaining flexible and fun.

While a traditional fire pit comes with the downside of campfire smoke, the Cosistove fire creates a great focal point and the warmth of a real log fire without the unwelcome smoke due to its additional flu.

Choosing materials which are heavily textured like a cable knit throw and side tables such as the Rafael give a cohesive natural feel that will withstand the transcendence of time and remain current for years to come.

Transforming your outdoor space with stunning furniture ideas is a surefire way to create an inviting and comfortable sanctuary. Whether you have a small balcony or a spacious backyard, there are options available to suit your needs and style. Remember to choose materials that are durable and weather-resistant, and don't forget to properly maintain and care for your outdoor furniture. By incorporating accessories and styling elements, you can create a cohesive and stylish outdoor oasis that will leave your guests in awe. So, get ready to soak up the sun and make the most of your outdoor space with these transformative furniture ideas.