Keep it flexible: the best indoor-outdoor furniture and accessories to update your home
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Summer may be here but we all know the British weather can change in an instant.
So if you're looking to invest in furniture for a garden,terrace or balcony space, it's best to go for ranges that work just as well indoors as they do outside.
"As we move away from a solo matching table and chair set and towards a considered space to enjoy, design enthusiasts are looking for stylish, well made pieces that can transition from indoor to outdoor use," says Elaine Flynn, partner and assistant buyer for outdoor living at John Lewis & Partners.
"There’s no need to invest in two sets of furniture and accessories when these pretty but practical pieces can be quickly moved between the two spaces, as and when the situation, and weather, demands."
Top tips for designing outdoor spaces this summer
1. Opt for soft furnishings
The easiest way to update a space is by adding colour with soft furnishings.
Cushions are a great option for those not keen on commitment and budget options can easily be found on the high street.
"When entertaining both indoors and outdoors, cushions add the ultimate sense of comfort to a living space, and are a quick fix to add a punch of colour or texture", says Etsy's Trend Expert Dayna Isom Johnson.
IKEA has a great multi-coloured rectangular cushion, priced at £6, that will embrace all colour schemes whereas Etsy helps you get on board with the ever-growing botanical theme with their palm print cushion, priced at £15.
2. The right rug for the right space
A statement rug instantly gives an outdoor space a homely feel, by adding colour and texture. However, make sure you choose the material wisely.
"Woven synthetic fabrics are not only durable and light-weight but they are also super easy to clean," says Vicky Wright of Argos Home.
"This means they are perfect for high-traffic indoor spaces, such as kitchens and conservatories. They can be transported outside as soon as the sun starts shining and wiped clean in time for winter”
Weaver Green offers a good selection of eco-friendly option. The Moroccan-inspired Megina Tangier Rug (priced from £130) has the feel of wool but is actually made entirely from recycled plastic bottles.
3. Choose rattan for furniture
Rattan materials are everywhere this summer and its for good reason.
The versatile, sturdy material works both at home in a conservatory or outside on a terrace. Go for contrasting colours to make a statement.
"If you're looking for furniture that offers the best of indoor and outdoor use, then rattan is the perfect choice," explains Out & Out founder Daniel Fairburn.
"A natural plant fibre, rattan is highly durable and flexible allowing us to create furniture in beautiful shapes and weaves, perfect for an elegant and tactile finish."
It is also incredibly lightweight, so you can move your furniture indoors and out, especially during the warmer months.
4. Scour your home first before you buy
Before you invest in new furniture, take a look around your home to see if you have anything which can transfer outside.
Just remember to bring it in each night if it's not water resistant.
"Your statement jute rug from your hallway can work just as well for your decking, the assortment of lanterns from your living room fireplace can help you enjoy the longer, lighter evenings on your balcony and your statement haystack pouffe can work as a further seat for your guests at your annual summer garden soiree," advises the team at Homesense.