Summertime and the outdoor living is easy

Yorkshire Post - 7th May 2008 - Life & Style Section: Homes

Interiors

There is a wide range of furniture suited to dining in the garden. Interior designer. Jamie Hempsall, looks at what is available for the long sunlit evenings we all hope are on their way.

As the sun begins to push its head through the clouds there is a chance that we may get to enjoy a real summer in 2008. This gives an excellent opportunity to extend your living space into the garden. There is nothing nicer than sitting outside with friends on a warm summer evening, enjoying a chilled glass of wine and a fresh salad.

Traditionally, garden dining furniture has been a poor relation in the design field with people having to opt for white plastic, heavy cast iron or high maintenance teak.

The joy of al fresco dining should be that you are able to relax and feel comfortable in your furniture, without having to spend a lifetime scrubbing it down or treating it with oil that may cause damage to clothing.

In recent years, there has been some major advancement in the materials used by manufacturers ensuring that durable and lightweight products are available for more reasonably priced, but stylish furniture.

When considering the size of table remember to allow enough space for place settings, but also to hold the myriad of serving dishes that al fresco dining always seems to require (or consider a small serving table or trolley). Your chairs should provide good support, just as you would want from a normal dining chair, and ideally be cushioned to allow for those long hours of discussion and contemplation.

One of the most exciting developments in the last couple of years has been the introduction of “all weather” rattan (faux wicker) which has been worked into glamorous dining suites which hint at deco decadence with a modern twist. These look equally well in the conservatory or garden, but avoid you having to bring things in out of the rain. It is also now possible to have cushions covered in all weather fabrics to give a canvas effect finish to add to the comfort and style.

The Portofino range from Marks & Spencer has a good value 5 piece set for £699 (4 chairs and a table). Whilst John Lewis have introduced the Barlow Tyrie Savannah range with a stylish oblong table at £950 and chairs at £185 each. The classic British Lloyd Loom of Spalding (www.lloydloom.com) have also developed their range of traditionally paper wrapped wire products with an all weather range that is virtually indistinguishable from the original. Their Cordoba Oval table retails from £545, with Bolero Chairs at £275 and Bossanova Chairs at £295 each.

For those who want a contemporary metal look, consider the Chicago Aluminium and Black Stone Effect Set comprising 6 chairs and a table from Tesco Direct (www.tesco.com, 0845 600 4411) for £350 or their stylish Geneva 7 piece set at £300. Marks & Spencer also have a luxurious 9 piece set (including parasol) that would not look out of place in an episode of Dallas for £649. Ultimate indulgence for those who are small on space, but big on style comes in the shape of the Cordoba Outdoor Cubes and table (cubes are £145 each and the table £325).

Whilst parasols are very practical, a gazebo will provide much better protection (be it from rain or shine!) and allow you to truly create an external room. Prices have tumbled and you can now obtain great structures from nearly all stores and diy centres to suit all pockets.

As night falls, the pullovers may come on, but you can keep your evening going by introducing soft candle light which is ALWAYS flattering. Invest in small storm lanterns or place tea-lights in jam jars or decorative glasses to create an intimate setting without the worry of candles blowing out.

Happy dining!

Jamie Hempsall, BIDA Associate, is one of the regions leading interior designers. Contact him on 01777 248463 or visit his website at www.jamiehempsall.com.