They shared several hacks for rejuvenating outdoor havens ahead of a summer spent relaxing and socializing outside.

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Thalia Shaw is the owner and founder of the UK-based store Sparkle Lighting.

She joined interior specialists Pandora Maxton, Theresa Gromski, and Kyla Magart, in speaking to The U.S. Sun about how to upgrade backyards.

MAXIMIZE SPACE

Shaw revealed a small outdoor space can “feel like a sprawling oasis” with a few clever design tricks.

She recommended strategically placing mirrors to bounce light and create the illusion of depth.

“Choose a cohesive color palette for furniture and accessories to visually expand the space,” she said.

“And don’t forget to create a focal point at the far end of the yard to draw the eye and add a sense of grandeur.”

Theresa Gromski said the garden is her favorite part of her home.

“In the summertime, we treat it just like another room, so we created it with the same intentionality you would use to design a room indoors,” she said.

“Think about the layout and composition just as you would with a room in your home. 

“Choose suitable furniture for your needs and accessorize with a mix of colorful textiles.

“I like to style my garden with eclectic finds like lanterns and decorative pieces. 

“Adding a large outdoor mirror reflects light around and makes the space appear bigger. 

“Lighting is also really important.

“I use a mix of lanterns, festoon lights, and twinkly fairy lights to create ambiance and allow us to spend evenings outside long after the sun has set.”

BRIGHT SPARK

“Adding light to a garden can really bring your outdoor space to life in the evening and with solar, battery, and plug-in options, you can install them yourself so there are no heavy installation costs,” Shaw said.

“Lighting is not just a practical consideration, it’s an art form that can transform your backyard into a captivating sanctuary after dusk. 

Mix in fairy lights and festoon lights to take it to the next level.

Pandora Maxton

“Opt for affordable solar-powered LED lights to line pathways and accentuate key features without the hassle of wiring or running up electricity bills. 

“String lights and festoon lights are another budget-friendly option that will cast a warm and inviting glow over your outdoor gatherings.”

LOOK UP

Maxton said every inch of space matters in a small backyard and a vertical garden helps to “maximize greenery” without sacrificing inches.

She “wouldn’t be without” the climbing plants and abundance of lighting in her backyard that makes her pergola an “attractive extension” of her home.

“Install trellises, pergolas, or wall-mounted planters to cultivate a thriving oasis of herbs, flowers, or even vegetables,” she said.

“Not only does this add visual interest, but it also creates the illusion of depth and expansiveness. 

“Then mix in fairy lights and festoon lights to take it to the next level.”

CREATE INTIMATE SPACES

Magrath said outdoor spaces feel cozier and more inviting once the area has been broken up into small spaces.

This can be done using outdoor rugs, potted plants, or privacy screens to create zones dedicated to dining, relaxing, and entertaining.

She said zoning can also create the impression of having a larger space.

“When creating my tiny patio area, I aimed to create a cozy outdoor room, a place to chill in the evening with a glass of wine or sit and enjoy the sun during the day,” she said.

“I’ve used outdoor rugs and cushions, along with cozy sheepskins and blankets to add texture and warmth. 

“I’ve mixed different types of outdoor lighting, solar bulbs, fairy lights, festoons, dandelion lights, and paper lanterns to add layers and create maximum visual interest. 

“The whole space looks magical when lit up at nighttime.”

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