OUTDOOR LIVING


In the relaxation zone


Johanna Elvidge of Marshalls explains how a zoning approach can help organise your outdoor spaces for relaxed ‘quiet luxury,’ and how different landscaping materials can help achieve your vision


just as much purpose in the garden. And because people want to use their outdoor space for different purposes, it makes sense for self-builders to consider how to zone their gardens during the design and build space, rather than making retrospective updates later down the line. To support them, here are some


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different garden zones that are most appealing and popular, along with advice on the different materials, installations and design features that can be used to highlight an areas specific purpose within a wider scheme.


RELAXING RETREAT In recent research by Marshalls, 27% of people said they use their outdoor space as a means of escapism and stress relief.


60 www.sbhonline.co.uk


ost often used as a term to describe the internal layout of a home, ‘zoning’ now has


The desire to create an area of tranquillity in outdoor living spaces has increased in popularity since the pandemic, when people needed a safe and relaxing space to unwind that wasn’t off limits. To achieve the ‘quiet luxury’ trend outdoors, use soft curving forms to create a grounded, relaxed and calm atmosphere. In terms of colour, warmer, earthly shades inspired by Mediterranean architecture and design are thought to tap into a peaceful aesthetic, so porcelain and sandstone products in these tones can help create the desired look and feel.


Natural planting brings you closer to nature, while a water feature will provide a relaxing musical backdrop away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. As the healing powers of water are becoming more widely recognised – from stress relief to reducing inammation  outdoor


bathrooms garden spas and reection pools are becoming more popular in garden designs.


EMBRACING OUTDOOR COOKING & GARDEN GET-TOGETHERS


Outdoor cooking areas are perfect for alfresco socialising, with 26% of respondents to Marshalls research saying they have plans to add a dedicated outdoor cooking space to their garden. While there are plenty of appliances like standalone barbecues and pizza ovens on offer, it’s becoming increasingly popular to use hard landscaping products to develop an ‘in-built’ outdoor kitchen that is hardwearing against the elements, looks attractive, and can be used all year round. You can use a mixture of bricks and slabs to build up your space – remembering to designate areas for food prep and serving. After adding utility supplies, you can then


mar/apr 2024


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