SIMPLESCANDI GARDENIDEAS

Summertime and the living is easy… and few looks offer such easy living as a natural colour scheme. Cool, calm and inspired by Scandi design, this mellow approach is all about balancing materials, textures and accents to find a stillness that feels just right.

Shapes and forms have more impact in a pared-back scheme and they’re something to play with, especially against the straight lines of a building or the flat planes of a terrace or deck. Furniture with curves or an organic silhouette has a sculptural beauty that can nestle comfortably among organic planting too. Consider adding extra height and layer up accessories as you would indoors. Vases of flowers, pot plants and an ever-useful parasol will add that extra dimension, while mixing in unexpected materials such as shiny smoked glass creates pockets of interest.

Colour trends for neutrals are showing a shift away from cool greys towards warmer tones. Take inspiration from the soft, diffused and honeyed colours of morning light – they’re perfect for summer. Pale woods and timber make perfect partners, as do seagrass and jute for casual rugs, and rattan and open-weaves for outdoor furniture.

‘Tactility is key in a neutral scheme so consider the touch of each surface, whether soft or hard, and how each one can offer something different,’ says Wil Law, Partner & Home Design Stylist. ‘For textiles, consider layering different fabrics from earthy linens, textured bouclés, right through to heavier, chunky knits. The same applies to hard surfaces – a smooth wood tone could be layered with more tactile finishes such as reeded wood or cane.’

Our summer climate is not dissimilar to that of our Scandi cousins so pile on the comfort outdoors, especially when entertaining. Sheepskin rugs, woolen blankets – stick with the natural materials here – and isn’t a firepit now considered an essential? Set up somewhere comfortable with shelter from the elements where possible so you can relax into this space at every opportunity, come rain or shine.

Chalky pastels and shades of plaster all fall within the range of new neutrals and will soften the look without dominating. Think faded beauty and sun-bleached hues for your cushions and throws. If you want to add a small amount of something stronger, stay within the natural palette with warmer shades of terracotta.

Looking to go bolder still? The occasional piece in sleek black is the sophisticated choice – be inspired by black cabins on northern isles and choose a stand-out piece such as a rocker or pod chair. The stark contrast has eye-catching style so welcome it into the scheme by mirroring shapes and introducing a little of your accent colour here.