How to create the perfect BBQ garden setting
Gardens have really become the fifth rooms for home owners. There's a real trend of maximising space with garden office spaces, outhouses and even outside kitchen spaces! An outdoor kitchen creates a perfect summer setting for an alfresco dining experience. This eliminates the worry of running in and out of the house to serve your guests. Not only does this re-create the visual cooking experience for your diners which is so popular in some of London's favourite restaurants but it also makes serving a much easier streamlined process for the host.
Think green
You won't have to look far to see that green is the colour for all things homes and interiors for summer 2017. Which is great news as the shade so easily complements any garden and outdoor space. If you are looking for accessories and furniture that are on trend this season you can't go far wrong if you keep green front of mind. Whether that be cushions, furniture, table cloths or even just accessories. Make sure you have a splash of it on show when you entertain this summer.
Tools
There are so many accessories that make seasonal cooking that much easier. The House & Garden Festival is playing host to some amazing tools and new garden tech that will make any summer chef's life that much easier when under the pressure of entertaining. From spiralizers to wine cooler gadgets there's a tool to make every BBQ task light work.
Keep it light
Light features create a lovely summer ambience and the perfect way to make that day BBQ into evening drinks transition. Whether you have an immaculate green space or a more confined garden area a light feature is the perfect way to enhance the space.
Simple but effective tricks
Sadly we are not all blessed with rolling beautiful landscapes but little touches go a long way. Add some colour with a few new pot plants and cut the grass, even if it's not in the condition you might like. Both will brighten and open out the space. Plants can easily become statement features that will catch the eye and draw it away from the other areas you may not want guests to focus on. Consider this also in your layout. Your setting and table area are the focal point and dictate the eye line of your visitors. Position it so eyes will rest on your gardens best assets and features.
Finishing touches
Who doesn't love flowers? In reaching distance is even better. Add to the scenery by bringing blooms to your guests directly on the table. It's easy to forget simple touches such as table blossoms in the mist of wanting to serve your guests ample food and drink. Seasonal blooms and flower features are what set summer parties apart, the extra effort is worth going to and will not go unnoticed. This year the popularity of the terrarium is still reigning strong. Not only do they looks great but are also simple to make and last well after your party. You can enjoy them post event and even re-use another time. Elegant long stems are another choice of trend and offer a beautiful finish for any summer dining table.
Style-seekers will find everything they need at the House & Garden Festival. The four-day event at Kensington Olympia will bring together three leading lifestyle events: Spirit of Summer Fair, The HOUSE Fair and GROW London, to create the ultimate celebration of summer and stylish living. Over 550 exhibitors will take part from Wednesday 21st to Saturday 24th June.