2010 Outdoor design trends

Comfort is the keyword in outdoor design this year. Patio furniture to relax in, innovative lighting and heating accessories, hi-tech kitchen equipment: everything is designed so we can spend more time outside, whether on a hot summer’s day or a cooler fall evening, in order to make the most of the fresh air and nature around us. We are taking the indoors out, creating entire living rooms, family rooms and kitchens outside with quality furniture and fittings. What does 2010 hold in store for us in terms of exterior design? Read on for inspiration!
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Garage and shed for storage
The outdoor kitchen - hi-tech and fully equipped
A relaxing nook
Outdoor heating extends the summer
Around the pool and hot tub
The vegetable plot is back!
Lighting: attractive as well as useful

Garage and shed for storage

The cramped, dark, dreary garage is a thing of the past. Today’s garages are larger and better equipped, so much so that they become living spaces in their own right. They not only house the car but also provide abundant and practical storage space for yard tools and seasonal equipment. Higher-end homes often have two garages, one for the car and the other to store sports, leisure and home maintenance gear.

Such spaces are designed to be both functional and decorative. Floor coverings, paint colours and storage systems are all carefully selected. Because considerable time is spent here, especially in the workshop, it’s essential to have a good source of light. It's also important to include proper ventilation and an efficient heating system for added comfort.

The garage and shed exteriors should blend with the style and design of the house. Planting attractive flower borders around these buildings will increase curb appeal.

The outdoor kitchen - hi-tech and fully equipped

This year’s must-have is an outdoor kitchen worthy of the greatest chefs. We’ve come a long way from the days of the lone charcoal barbecue in the corner of the backyard. The trend is now to recreate an entire outdoor cooking area with high-quality equipment.

No outdoor cooking station would be complete without the most basic element, the barbecue grill. Grills are increasingly upmarket and durable. They come with burners, warming racks, storage areas and even a fridge. For the ultimate stylish look and additional work space, build the barbecue into an outdoor island. If you entertain a lot, you can even install a separate refrigerator to keep cold drinks handy.
Outdoor living is of course about relaxing with friends and family, often around the table for a drink or a good meal. When choosing outdoor furniture, look for durable materials that require little or no cleaning. A favourite combo this year is wood and metal, offering warmth with a modern touch. Whether you are looking for a full dining set for large gatherings or a more modest set for family lunches, a bistro set for two, a lunch counter or a mini-bar, outdoor furniture is available to suit every family and lifestyle. Put the finishing touches on your elegant outdoor living space by opting for matching accessories to show your decor off in its best light.

When it comes to colours, think natural! This year’s most popular hues stem from nature – sand, beige, cream, mocha and cappuccino, as well as a palette of greens reflecting the world around us. Hot, zingy colours and all kinds of stripes will add freshness and life this year, too.

A relaxing nook

A patio awning or gazebo is perfect for creating a peaceful haven, away from the bustle and noise of urban life. Install an outdoor fan and heater lamp to ensure your comfort no matter the temperature. Opt for soft, snug furniture with lots of cushions and easy-to-clean fabrics.

Nature enthusiasts will want to create a calm oasis amid lush greenery, fragrant flowers and twittering birds. A water feature adds charm and tranquility; this could take the form of a water garden complete with aquatic plants and trickling waterfall, or involve a simple fountain or a bird bath. For greater privacy, install boundary fencing in wood, wrought iron or PVC. Create lush borders with shrubs and perennials, train climbing plants up trellises, and fill planters and pots with colourful annuals.

Outdoor heating extends the summer

Given our long cold winters, it’s only natural that we should want to make the most of the outdoors during the rest of the year. With the wide range of heater lamps and outdoor fireplaces available, staying warm and cozy on the patio is not a problem.

An outdoor fireplace offers the perfect gathering spot as the night draws in. Arrange comfy chairs and benches around the hearth so as to fully enjoy the warmth and comforting smell of the burning wood.
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