“Gardens and flowers have a way of bringing people together, drawing them from their homes.”
Clare Ansberry
Socialising outdoors and al fresco entertaining are no longer reserved solely for high summer but are now a part of our everyday. After months staying at home in solace, being able to invite a friend over for coffee outside felt like a welcome hug of normality, even if actual hugs are still off the menu.
Creating an inviting outdoor space (if we are lucky enough to have it) has become just as important as the space inside our homes as we are more likely to spend time outside. For me, this has meant numerous trips to my local garden centre to procure pots and plants for our small North London garden, with babe in arms, which felt like quite an achievement in itself.
Below are the sources of inspiration for living the outdoor dream…
Courtyard living.
I love walking the streets when on my travels (though any trips are currently a distant memory!) and am intrigued by what lies behind the often intimidating heavy front doors in places like Marrakech and Milan. I always catch my breath when I pass an open door revealing a courtyard to peer into the unexpected beauty that lies beyond.
The courtyard has been around since humans started to build houses thousands of years ago. The architectural design hailed from the Middle East where style depended on the climate and culture of the location, but keeping cool and element of privacy were always key aspects. As well as looking beautiful and lush, plants and greenery also provide shade and help to regulate the temperature in courtyard buildings.
Boho beach style.
If like me, you are desperate for a change of scenery and are yearning to be near water, the next on my list of dream outdoor situations include beach locations, even featuring a laid back living room with sand under foot and space to relax on crumpled linen sofas.
Bucolic bliss.
Despite being a city girl born and bred, I am beginning to see the appeal of a quieter, rural life with a deep connection to nature and living seasonally. Entertaining al fresco amongst plentiful greenery feels magical. We can transfer this rustic look to an urban setting with low key furniture, simple tableware and minimal accessories, letting the beauty of the natural surroundings take the lead.
A few years ago we celebrated our wedding in a beautiful French Mas, a traditional Provençal farmhouse. I wanted to keep the decor simple and chose wooden trestle tables covered with a lace style runner and hessian; mismatched crockery from local flea markets; handmade napkins from Liberty fabrics and local flowers arranged in hundreds of jars we had collected in the run up. See a couple of pictures of the tables set up below…
