Bring the outside in... and vice versa

Large or small, the garden is an extension of the house and as such, ought to be considered as part of it and reflect its style. Volumes, shapes, proportions, colours, materials and general feel found in the house can all be emulated outside to provide that sense of oneness, an impression that the garden or courtyard is just another room.

The terrace outline follows the same lines as the house.

If interior is contemporary and sleek and stripped, the outside should be too. Straight lines, flat surfaces, contemporary lighting, simplicity is what you need in the garden. If your interior is busy, loaded with decorative objects, souvenirs, books, colours, cushions etc, so should the garden. All shapes shrubs, flowers, pots, chairs and tables, make it as busy as the inside.

Busy out

Busy in

Getting into the details, match the flowers on your cushions or curtains with the real thing outside and have them in the same field of vision. Choose flowers in the same colour range as your décor.

Colours in, colours out Warmth in, warmth out

Access to it needs to be as easy as walking into another room. Having large windows and French doors will add to the attraction of the outdoor. Organise your inside so the outside is right there, calling you. Ensure the patio/terrace is at the same level as the room floor inside – no step is better. Once the doors are open, moving outside should be seamless and effortless. The terrace then looks like an extension of your house.