A Perfect Patio, Irish-Style

A recent survey found that the Irish are spending less on plants and more on hot-tubs, outdoor furniture and summer houses for their gardens. This seems to be part of a trend to improve the home rather than having to move. Lack of time for gardening is also behind the popularity of these outdoor accoutrements, as they generally have less maintenance required. On average, Irishmen spend 900 Euros on their garden furniture and associated items.

Tina Mahoney at Go Modern enthused about the new designer approach to outdoor furniture that employs the latest marine-proof materials, and banishes the tired old look of the garden setting. The aim now is to extend the indoors seamlessly outside to a beautifully appointed area that has a 'wow' factor, she claimed. Pure white as a colour theme reflects light and increases the sense of space. Colour adds exoticism. Timber and stone are always stylish and suitable outdoors, as are woven materials like rattan. Metalwork and wirework are also enjoying a resurgence. Elegant wire or metal pieces work particularly well in small spaces like city balconies, as they are not a solid piece and so look like they take up less space.

Source: Offaly Express