32 New Year, Fresh Start Home improvements, interiors & gardens Al fresco upgrades Interior designers reveal the big outdoor changes to make for spring. Words: Faye Bartle


Garden rooms A new trend to emerge in 2020 was people building rooms in their garden for various uses, such as a gym or offi ce. But before you dive straight in, consider your budget, how to use it and the space you have. “Options range from off -the-shelf


DIY kits costing around £6k to full architectural commissions,” explains Steph Briggs, interior designer and co-founder of La Di Da Interiors (ladida-andover.com). Make sure to check if you need


planning permission and specifi c regulations also apply if you intend to use the space for sleeping, so always seek professional guidance. “For a home offi ce, you’ll need to


factor in an electricity supply, as well as insulation to keep it cool in the summer and warm in the winter,” says Steph.


Outdoor kitchen An al fresco cooking and dining space gives you that holiday feeling at home. A good one should include a worktop, grilling station, sink, drinks fridge, dining area and some handy storage. If space is limited, you could make a wood-fi red pizza oven or barbecue the focal point. “Use two or three bistro-style


tables and chair sets to create a cafe- style atmosphere, or go for a banquet- sized long table for a dramatic feel,”


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says Steph. “Given the British climate, a covered area is desirable.” Help the space fl ow with the rest


of the garden by repeating plants and colours using planters and pots to create height and texture. “Place aromatic herbs in pots within easy reach for cooking,” adds Steph.


Glam garage If you don’t want to commit to a summerhouse, you could try transforming your garage. Melissa Urdang Bodie, co-founder


of Melissa + Miller Interiors (melissaandmiller.com), recently converted a client’s garage into a


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luxurious, temporary setting for socially distanced gatherings. “Get rid of clutter and hide the rest


in smart-looking storage bins,” says. “Elevate the room by painting the walls, fl oors and any average-looking carpentry. Also, switch up the hardware on the cabinets.” Once you’ve got the basics covered,


it’s all about the styling. “Create a cosy, fl exible seating area with beanbags and chairs on wheels. Use a room divider to hide unsightly areas and make a paper lantern chandelier. Create texture with washable fabrics and go for faux fl owers or succulents that don’t need tending to.”


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