How to maximise your outdoor space this summer

Celebrate summer’s best days with an effortlessly stylish outdoor space that invites you outside, whatever its size.

With summer already here, we’re all keen to soak up every bit of sunshine and gentle breeze as if it might disappear overnight - because let’s face it, British weather can be unpredictable.

Whether you’re living in a house with a garden or a flat with a balcony, your outdoor space holds real potential to become your go-to retreat this season. But you don’t need major renovations to make it work for you, your routine, and your moments of relaxation - just clever, mindful use of what you already have, plus a few thoughtful, landlord-friendly touches.

1. Think about how you want to use the space

Before you start rearranging furniture or buying fairy lights, take a moment to consider what you really want from your space. Is it a quiet reading nook? A spot to eat outside with a friend or two? Somewhere to grow herbs or just escape the indoors for a bit? Or perhaps a place to work on your projects?

There’s no single right answer, as everyone’s routines and needs are different. For some, summer is all about slow breakfasts and late-night chats under the stars. For others, it’s five peaceful minutes with a cup of tea or iced coffee before starting the day. Once you’ve got a vision, it’s much easier to shape your outdoor space around it.

If your ideal summer includes hosting friends, even occasionally, a few thoughtful changes can go a long way. Our tips on hosting summer gatheirngs in small spaces show how to make it feel easy and enjoyable without overcomplicating things.

2. Multi-purpose furniture is your best ally

In a rental, especially in a flat, space is often limited - and anything bulky can quickly become too much. The key to creating a balanced space is flexibility. Think fold-away bistro tables, stackable stools, or even picnic blankets that can be rolled up and tucked away when not in use.

If you have a garden, you might enjoy a bit more room - but that doesn’t mean you need to fill every inch. One or two comfortable chairs, a table for drinks or food, and a small gazebo or parasol for shade can completely transform a patchy lawn or tired patio.

Top tip: Try repurposing indoor items temporarily - like bringing out a tray table from your living room on warm evenings. Just remember to bring everything back in before the weather changes to keep it in good condition.

3. Greenery doesn’t need to touch the ground

If you live somewhere with a balcony or small terrace, there’s still plenty of room to add greenery — you just need to get a little creative. Hanging planters, railing pots, or even an old wooden ladder propped against the wall can help you build a lush little garden without taking up too much floor space.

Herbs like basil, mint, and rosemary are perfect for all food lovers – and the best part is, they’re low-maintenance, fast-growing, and handy for summer cooking. Even a few well-placed plants can make your space feel calmer, cooler, and more inviting.

If the property you’re renting has a garden, you can take it a step further - growing vegetables and flowers or setting up raised beds. Just consider how much time and energy you're willing to commit. Low-maintenance options (like lavender or ornamental grasses) can add life without the pressure of constant care.

Our expert tip: Always check with your landlord before making any changes, so you stay on the safe side. For more practical advice, see our tips on maintaining a good landlord-tenant relationship.

4. Add small comforts that make a big difference

It’s often the little things that transform a space from ‘somewhere you stand’ to ‘somewhere you want to stay.’ A cushion here, a candle there, a blanket for chillier nights. Soft outdoor lighting (think solar-powered or battery-operated) can give your evenings a gentle glow, even if you’re only sitting out for ten minutes.

If your outdoor area is overlooked by other flats or buildings, a bit of privacy goes a long way - bamboo screens, outdoor fabric panels, or even a tall potted plant can help create that tucked-away feeling without making any permanent changes.

Whatever you add, think temporary, movable, and personal. After all, this is the home you live in, so your personal touches are what makes it welcoming and comfortable.

5. Keep it practical (and weather-conscious)

As tempting as it is to go all-out, a British summer is never entirely predictable, and outdoor spaces often come with their own quirks. That doesn’t mean you can’t make the most of them; with a few thoughtful touches, they can feel just right.

• Ensure you have a suitable waterproof container or storage area where you can quickly stash cushions or throws when the weather changes.
• When gardening, use containers with proper drainage if you’re growing anything green and leafy.
• Find the perfect balance between creating a space that feels inviting and one that is overcrowded - embrace the “less is more” rule and avoid overfilling your space.

Embrace the outdoor lifestyle as much as you can

For tenants, outdoor space often comes with limitations - you can’t paint the fence, re-landscape the lawn, or install a permanent pavilion. But that doesn’t mean you can’t shape it into something that feels like yours. The secret is to make small, smart changes that support the way you want to live, even if only for a season.

Because when the sun does come out, even briefly, it’s worth having a space that makes you want to step outside - whether it’s time to eat dinner, grow your first tomato plant, or just listen to the birds for a while.

And when the heat becomes a little too much? There are plenty of renter-friendly ways to cool down inside too, without asking your landlord to invest in an AC.