This is the time of year when everyone is aiming to make the most of any good weather and garden furniture is high on the shopping list. Good furniture can cost a lot but will visually improve an average-looking garden, while cheap-looking items will have the opposite effect.
Materials range from wood or a combination of wood and metal to woven rattan and wicker, synthetic woven materials, plastic and acrylics. If you are creating a contemporary garden avoid traditional furniture. Outrageously bright colours soon pall and stark white rarely compliments any structures or planting.
Dining tables and chairs Some small gardens are designed entirely round a table and a set of chairs to create an “outdoor dining room”. Round tables work well where space may be squeezed.
Sofas Many companies are producing slouchy sofas complete with shower-proof cushions — much more comfy than a park bench design. They sometimes come in modules that can be easily changed to give flexibility. Think carefully before buying though — they tend to be bulky and dominate a space, so work out how you are going to get them in situ.
Steamers/loungers These are ideal for sun worshippers and anyone who likes to be horizontal, but take up a surprising amount of ground space. They can also be bulky to store.
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Benches I love a great bench. It can help to define and hold a particular area of the garden together when placed alone, say under a tree or on a planted gravel surface, and make it an inviting destination point. A good bench will last you a lifetime — and would make a good present — so why not commission something bespoke?
Built-in Built-in furniture becomes a strong visual feature, especially when built out of complimentary or matching materials such as timber and rendered blockwork. This is an efficient use of space if retaining walls are to be built, because they can form the back of the bench, too. An L-shaped bench works well where space is limited, and creates a sociable set-up. Make sure to get the size of the seat and back right by measuring other furniture you like. Remember comfort, too: consider fitted cushions or bring plenty of cushions outdoors when needed.
Café style Many retailers now sell foldable café- style tables and chairs that are ideal for tiny gardens and balconies. These can often be stored on a wall on brackets.
Hammocks There is nothing better than relaxing in a hammock on a hot day. Some come with frames and some will need strong fixings into walls or can be tied around mature trees. Frames will take up space all year round. I love the Mexican-style hammocks in which you lie sideways. Larger ones can take the whole family, though there is a technique to be mastered for getting in and out! They need more space than you think — at least 11-13ft (3.5-4m) between fixings.