4 ways to keep your outside space usable in autumn
Fri 26 Aug 2022
Paul Bennett, Director
As estate agents, we are acutely aware that many home moves over the last two years have been motivated by the need for more outside space. Even in the St. John’s Wood neighbourhood, studios have been swapped for apartments with balconies, courtyard have been replaced by gardens with lawns and even the most urban-minded movers have requested to be closer to Regent’s Park.
Our obsession with outside space shows no signs of abating as we discover the delights of al fresco dining, sunset drinks around a firepit or merely looking out of the window to a more verdant aspect. Behr & Butchoff has particularly noted that merging the outside with the inside –extending living areas into the garden by way of bifold doors and creating designated ‘rooms’ outside - has been a major design trend over the last two years.
Behr & Butchoff’s observations have been substantiated by Composite Prime®, who have noted the outdoor living trend showing no signs of slowing down, with many homeowners looking to make improvements to their outdoor spaces with a view to increasing the value of the property. Composite Prime® quoted statistics from a survey by Luxury Rattan on the level of people searching for garden inspiration on Instagram. The analysis found 11% of the top garden images under Instagram’s #gardeninspiration hashtag over the last 12 months focused on inside-outside living.
Even as we head towards a change of season, with the stunning temperatures of summer giving way to autumn’s cooler – and damper – conditions, we can extend the shelf life of our outside space so we can keep enjoying the great outdoors for months to come.
Here are some suggestions that will encourage you outside even when the weather turns:-
1. Embrace hygge: we’re no stranger to hygge – the Scandinavian concept of making things cosy at home when winter arrives – and it’s a principle we can transfer to our gardens. Soft blankets and sheepskins will allow you to sit outside even when the temperature drops.
2. Make fire a focal point: another way to take the chill out of the air is by adding an extra heat source. Chimeneas, wood and gas-fuelled fire pits, patio heaters and even outdoor fireplaces will create a new level of comfort. If you opt for a real flame, you gain an added bonus of being able to toast marshmallows.
3. Create shelter: sadly rain is often a feature of British seasons but a shower doesn’t have to dampen your outside spirit. An awning makes a great addition to a garden, providing somewhere to set out furniture and stay dry.
4. Add lights: with the longest day far behind us and nights drawing in, one problem is having enough light to eat, drink and socialise outside. Solar lights will start losing their power in early autumn, so think about switching to mains-powered or battery-operated versions. You can add atmosphere with candles and oil torches.
If you’re still searching for a new home with outside space, let our estate agents know. We have available properties in the St. John’s Wood area for sale and to rent – get in touch today.