Top Architectural Trends for 2020 – Maximising the Outdoors

Terraces, balconies and glass curtains, to name but a few. There are a multitude of different ways in which you can create and maximise your outdoor living experience. Also how one can blur the lines between outdoor and indoor, a great Architectural trick.If we focus however on pure outdoor  space, then no matter how big or small, there are a multitude of interventions one can use to cater for any size of space.

When it comes to seating, the most effective way to accommodate those bums in any outdoor area is with perimeter seating. This not only maximises the space, but also helps with foot traffic and how this traffic pattern forms in and around the area. Dedicated seating will eliminate furniture being in the way enabling you to get creative when it comes to the loose standing items that you buy. Before investing in an outdoor coffee table, consider going for something that has multiple functions, such as foot stools that can double up as side tables or extra seating.

Be sure to add lighting to your outdoor space. Giving the appearance of spaciousness is just one of the many reasons to install lighting and how your eye is drawn to certain aspects of the space. If you plan to spend many evenings socialising in and enjoying your outdoor area, light fixtures must be included in your planning upfront, rather than an afterthought. It also adds to ambiance, safety and yes, security.

When considering your space, no one likes to sit outside with the sun beaming into their eyes, so make use of trees, either planted or within decorative pots in their natural environment to help shade. Yes everyone likes sunlight and playful shadows, but at the same time you want to minimise and control sunlight during those harsh summer days by directing the rays to areas that count.

Planting can further reinforce divisions between spaces, assist as wind breaks and become attractive privacy screens. These simple things can help reduce costs before considering built structures. Don’t let your small outdoor area get you down when it comes to things like greenery, vertical gardens are the perfect way to spruce up your space, and they are also a growing (pun intended) fad at the moment.

Combat the cold by making use of mobile stoves and fireplaces, so that you can enjoy the outdoors all year round.

You don’t have to spend a fortune to make your space great, although if budget isn’t an issue, like in all things, then the sky is the limit.