Setting the scene

Before choosing outdoor furniture, it's important to plan an outdoor space, says designer Jo Thompson

- Jo Thompson

The designer turned an old swimming-pool area into a secluded sunken garden, with shade and entertaining spaces.

INCREASINGLY, I'm asked to include a dining-entertaining space in my garden designs and not necessarily close to a house. Being forced to stay at home for so long during the pandemic has made people consider using more of their gardens, whether it is a table in the cool shade of magnificent old tree, a corner with a view or an ideal sunspot for breakfast, lunch or early-evening drinks.