We have been spoiled with weeks of good weather.
And over the last month, I've found that I have changed how I am using my little house. I am outdoors much more during the day and evening which I love, but because of this, I now have the itch to make more of my garden space!
I'd love to add some items so it becomes more comfortable, mirroring internal living space.
Honestly, I have never spent much money on my patio and garden area.
I would, of course, plant up the garden in June so that I would have loads of flowers in the garden over the summer months.
We have a dining set outside for when we do have a BBQ or decide to eat outside for the few days of summer we might get each year, and I also just acquired a small wicker sofa from a charity shop which the kids like to hang out on.
Being outdoors more now has me seeing the potential of what I could do with my outside space now that I am spending more time in it. So I have been on “Pinterest" for some inspiration, which can only lead to trouble!
If you had deep pockets there is no doubt you could go wild turning your garden/patio into an amazing extra room. There is so much choice out there to revamp your patio, such as L-shaped sofas, side tables, bar carts, bunting, full dinner sets, string lighting - you can even get an ornate floor lamp with matching table light for your patio.
However, I think it is good to be realistic, and if you are like me and live in a country where we are never guaranteed sun, there is no point spending a small fortune on furniture and accessories that you will use for only a few weeks a year!
I am so practical at times I even surprise myself - my husband, however, may not agree with that statement!.
My advice is to make a few solid investments that will last you a few years: a good table and chairs or seating set being one. Next up for me would be to acquire an "outside rug" - it is one of the key pieces which will really transform your outdoor space, making a huge difference without breaking the bank. And honestly there's lots of good value to be had, so going off to buy rugs for your outdoor area, isn't going be the end of the world in terms of spending.
I went off to find an inexpensive one which I could use this summer, and, honestly, it wasn’t the easiest of searches.
If I was living in the USA, the choices available at all different budget levels are fantastic.
However, I did find a few that you can get in Ireland or that can be shipped to Ireland. I pulled together a few I found online which I hope gives you some inspiration and from them you will find the outdoor rug for you.
Clockwise from top left: MORUM Beige (article no: 202.035.63), €60, Ikea.ie; Outdoor Modern Collection rug, £89, iRug.co.uk; Outdoor rug from BundleBerry, £66, QVC.co.uk; Handwoven rug, £239, Westelm.co.uk.
Here is hoping that the weather lasts so that you can enjoy it!
