FIVE EASY WAYS TO CREATE A BEAUTIFUL OUTSIDE AREA FOR YOUR HOME

Whether you have a large stoep, balcony or patio, make sure your outdoor space is fit for entertaining this spring with our top tips for decorating outside areas, big or small. Here’s how.

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1. Create a living wall
A real living wall can be costly, but you can create your own DIY version by hanging multiple planters on a wall and filling them with plants and flowers. Not only will it create a beautiful focal point, but it is also a great way to maximise space on a small balcony.

TREND ALERT: A lot of small terracotta planters with succulents make for a striking display, whether wall-mounted or not. Plus, they’re waterwise!

2. Update your outdoor furniture
Make sure your stoep or balcony has ample seating (think chairs, benches, pouffes and even a hammock) and a table or two to hold drinks and snacks. Look for second-hand or vintage pieces or repurpose old furniture by repainting it in bright spring hues like watermelon, apple green or lemon.

Related article: 5 decorating tips to make your home luxurious

TIP: Don’t forget to accessorise with soft cushions in a fun colour or design for extra comfort. Add an umbrella for those long, hot days and small blankets or throws for when it gets cooler in the evening.

3. Add shade for protection
No matter how much you love spring, you have to add shade to your outside area to protect against sunburn. A great option is curtains in a durable fabric that can be drawn when needed. It takes up no space and is an excellent choice for smaller outside spaces. Blinds are also a good idea. Both these options create more of a designer feel than using an umbrella.

Related article: How colour affects your moods

4. Create a wet bar
If you love to entertain and have the space for it, why not create an outside wet bar (a bar with a small basin and a bar fridge)? It cuts down on running back and forth to the kitchen for drinks and ice, plus it can be a great place to gather with family and friends for sundowners.

If you don’t have space for a small bar, a drinks corner (it can be a table or trolley) with all the essentials will do just as well.



5. Add underfoot interest
Decorating an outside area is no different to decorating the inside of your home – you want to add interest to the walls and floors. Yes, floors! Outside, this can mean a fun, graphic outdoor rug, or you can paint your balcony or stoep floor with exterior paint for a super-cool and unique floor finish. How about painting your steps in alternating hues or an ombre colourway?

TREND ALERT: Bold, graphic patterns are all the rage, so look for a rug with a striking geometric design or create a floor design of your own. You can easily do this with masking tape – simply outline your pattern (rectangles, squares, etc) and then paint it in the colour of your choice.

Related article: Decorate your home with flair