Tips for al fresco fun

1. That floating feeling

Looking for some unique but practical outdoor furniture? Consider installing a hanging chair or hammock. These can be strung from tree to tree or post to post, or hung directly from an overhanging branch or beam. Simply perfect for sinking into and lazing away the late summer days.

2. Cool nooks

Nobody wants to sit outside in the full glare of the sun. Inspect your garden for spots that are shaded during the heat of the day, and set up outdoor furniture there. Even the smallest garden will have sections that receive shade during certain parts of the day.

3. Nip those mozzies in the bud

If there's anything that's going to deter you from going outside (especially at dawn and dusk) it's mosquitoes. These thirsty critters breed in pools of still water, so a good way of preventing them from becoming a problem is to avoid having water build up in containers of any kind in your garden.

4. Don't stint on comfort

Why not throw out all that broken-down outdoor furniture and replace it with something comfortable. Outdoor furniture has come a long way and there are some excellent items available that don't cost the earth.

5. Lighten up

Correctly installed and creative lighting can bring your garden to life at night. The effect is up to you. Sparkles in the trees for magic; softly lit garden paths for romance; or simply functional spotlighting - all of these will help draw you outside to enjoy pleasant evenings.

6. Time to do the lot?

The best way to make your outdoor spaces truly enticing is to spruce up the entire space, rather than just attack it here and there in bursts. Talk to a landscape designer to find out what you can do to turn your tired garden into a beautiful outdoor living space.

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