We all know that discussing the weather is something of a national pastime here in the UK, but it is perhaps less well-known that we are more likely to see snow at Easter than we are at Christmas. Certainly, this past week has had a bit of everything, from winter to something more spring-like.
Whatever the current forecast, the initial months of the year tend to be times when we look ahead – when we tend to book holidays and plan home improvement projects.
From a meteorological perspective, spring is already here, and the days are certainly starting to feel a little longer. It is all too tempting to start thinking about warmer evenings and enjoying our homes and gardens.
With those balmier temperatures very much in mind, what can be better than relaxing in your own living space in a contemporary garden room?
If you’re fortunate enough to already have a garden room or perhaps are considering investing in one, Karen Bell, Sales Director at David Salisbury, shares her top tips to get yours ready for the warmer months.
Less is more
Decluttering is always a satisfying experience, but especially so in a favourite room, which is designed for relaxation and enjoyment.
More than just removing unnecessary items – now is the time for a good spring clean.
‘A clear space leads to a clear mind’ is a great way of looking at this. Whilst the function of decluttering and cleaning can provide a sense of accomplishment, what is even better is the sense of fulfilment of being able to enjoy your garden room with a fresh feel to it.
Bring the outdoors in
Garden rooms are sometimes referred to as ‘outdoor living rooms’ as their larger proportions of glazing provide a sense of being outdoors when inside.
Accentuate this feeling by adding in some adventurous indoor plants, something of an interiors trend of recent years.
Small fruit trees, for example, are one way of adding a more permanent touch of greenery.
A splash of colour
Garden rooms and especially older-style conservatories tend to be quite conservative in terms of their colour.
Alongside some bold indoor plants, another way to add a splash of colour is via the interior design scheme and soft furnishings, in particular.
Consider adding accent colours via scatter cushions on a sofa or re-upholstering a favourite chair.
Many garden room owners place a rug in front of bi-fold or French doors, where access inside and out is provided. Why not refresh this with a hard-wearing, colourful alternative?
Let there be light
One of the most obvious benefits of investing in a garden room is the light and airy living space that it creates.
Make the most of this in the warmer months by cleaning the windows and, in particular, any roof lanterns.
Overhead roof lights provide an abundant flow of natural light by day and an opportunity for a spot of stargazing by night – a quick spring clean will enhance your enjoyment throughout the year.
Indoor/outdoor living
One home improvement trend of recent years, which shows no signs of slowing down, is the desire for our gardens to be relaxing extensions of our interior living spaces.
A garden room with bi-fold doors which can be fully retracted is perhaps the best route to achieving a sense of indoor/outdoor living.
In addition, choice of furniture both indoors and out is important. If your garden furniture is looking a little tired, a good clean will help refresh it. When hosting friends and family, consider occasional items of furniture in a garden room which can be used to place drinks or food on, just in case the weather cannot be trusted.
Enjoyment whatever the weather
That’s just a few simple but impactful steps worth taking in the coming weeks to maximise your enjoyment of your garden room for the warmer months ahead.
Whatever this summer brings, a clean, de-cluttered garden room with an interior refresh will be the place to relax, entertain and feel truly at home.
Article images: David Salisbury
Top image: Unsplash
