Garden trends - cosying up in the middle of winter

As the temperatures drop, instead of packing up the garden for the winter months, why not embrace the Scandi ‘hygge’ way of life?  This advocates wrapping up and enjoying the crisp outdoors, whatever the weather.  Socialising outside can be fun and atmospheric, as long as you have the right kit to keep warm.

A heat source is key for staying cosy.  John Lewis has seen an 82% increase in demand for outdoor heaters, which come in everything from free-standing styles to table top lamps and heaters that can be hung overhead.  Fire pits, chimineas or built in outdoor fireplaces also make warming focal points.

Having plenty of twinkling lights help create an inviting outdoor space.  Along with candles, patio strings or battery-operated fairy lights wrapped around trees create a magical feel.  Spot lights, down lights and subtle ‘spike up’ lights highlight plants and trees and create fabulous shadows.  LED path lights make it safer to navigate gardens at night and lanterns are perfect for entertaining spaces.

To avoid packing everything away after the summer, invest in some weather-proof furniture, whether it’s  artificial rattan, powder-coated aluminium or hardwood painted with Cuprinol or Ronseal, or oiled with a teak or Dutch oil.  There’s also an ever-increasing array of rugs and cushions made of rainproof fabrics such as polypropylene.  These can cope with the occasional shower and are mould resistant, but should still be stored somewhere dry over the winter months.

Finally, add plenty of faux furs and blankets, toast some marshmallows, pass round the mugs of hot chocolate - and don’t forget your thermals!