Outdoor space on a budget

LOOKING TO REVIVE YOUR OUTDOOR SPACE FOR SUMMER WITHOUT SPENDING A FORTUNE? WE ASKED THE EXPERTS TO SHARE THEIR TIPS

- 

Ah summer, you’re so close… but if you’ve been neglecting your garden over the winter months, there’s still time to give it a refresh – and without blowing the budget. From seating to colour, planting to hard landscaping, a little work now will see you enjoy your outdoor space all summer long. But if you’re unsure where to start – and certainly where you can save money – we asked a garden designer, a stylist and an outdoor living buyer for their tips on how to achieve garden revamps for less.

WORK WITH WHAT YOU HAVE

‘Sometimes, it’s the simplest things that can make a big difference,’ says Charlie. ‘Start by removing weeds and giving the area a good clean, using a jet washer to make your patio look like new.’ Joel believes that we shouldn’t overlook the art of gardening itself: ‘Gardening is one of the few things you can do for free. People always look for the “makeover” but remember how important the plants are in a garden, providing cover, shade, colour and texture as well as space for nature. Look for the best place to sit in your garden, whether that’s for a morning cuppa or a drink after work. Find out where the sun is, and then pop a seat or bench there. A place to sit and plants to enjoy are the very foundations of a garden for me, whatever your budget might be.’

GIVE DIY A GO