7 Ways to Spruce Up Your Outdoor Space for Summer

Summer is fast approaching, which means entertaining outdoors is back on the agenda! So it’s time to dust off the sun loungers, clean the BBQ and give the garden a good once-over before the social season starts. If you’re looking for some inspiration to get your backyard ‘summer-ready’, check out a few of our budget-friendly ways to spruce up your outdoor space, below.

1. Bring your backyard back to life

One simple and affordable way to get your outdoor space ready for summer is with some good old-fashioned gardening. Mow the lawn, pull out the weeds and remove any old / broken garden ornaments. You might also like to plant some fresh flowers, or, if your budget allows, install some artificial turf. It’s tidy and low maintenance – win!

2. Overhaul your outdoor dining area

The alfresco dining area is usually the heart of any outdoor setup. Come summertime, this space needs to be spick and span. So, dust off and hose down your outdoor furniture, give it a fresh lick of paint if required, and if it’s time for a change-up, consider purchasing a second-hand furniture setting, or if your budget allows, a new one. If you’re not keen on the whole box and dice, you can introduce pieces of fresh décor instead. Some cost-effective patio décor ideas include throw rugs, pillows, placemats, cutlery and DIY centrepieces for the table.

3. Let there be light

Have you considered hanging some festoon or fairy lights outdoors to give your backyard a retro, intimate and fun feel? Festoon lights have surged in popularity of late and for good reason. They are reasonably priced, relatively easy to install and look fantastic (well we think so anyway!).

4. Freshen up your flooring

Does your patio, deck or alfresco flooring need a freshen up? If so, get out the high-pressure hose, or, if you’re in a position to splash some cash, invest in some new flooring as this can instantly transform the look of a space. Choose a new floor that suits your budget, usage needs and personal style. Concrete is extremely durable, low-maintenance and affordable, decking is timeless and aesthetically pleasing (but requires more maintenance), or you could go down the paver or tile route. Consider how you’re going to use the space, who is going to be using it, and how much time you’re willing to spend maintaining it before making any decisions.

5. Paint the fence!

Giving the fence a fresh coat of paint is a budget-friendly way to spruce up your outdoor space, especially if you already have a tin of paint lying around! Just ensure that the fence is completely dry before you start, and if you’re short on time, you can always invest in a paint sprayer to save you the hassle of painting by hand.

6. Plants plants plants

If your outdoor space is looking a bit bare and basic, consider adding plants to the area. Potted plant arrangements, hanging plants and vertical gardens will add colour, vibrancy, interest and visual impact. Don’t know anything about plants? Visit your local nursery or plant shop for some advice on which plants are likely to thrive in your space, how to pot them, and how to arrange them so that they look their best.

7. Upgrade with shade

Does your outdoor space provide adequate shade? Sun coverage is one sure-fire way to ensure your outdoor space gets used (and looks cool – in both senses of the word). You can introduce a simple outdoor umbrella, or go all out with a sail, an awning, a gazebo, or a full-blown pergola. Creating shade throughout your outdoor space will help to protect you, your family, and your guests from the sun’s harsh rays.

There are plenty of budget-friendly ways to spruce up your outdoor space, so get those gardening gloves on before summer starts in earnest!

• SHARE