How to Upgrade Your Outdoor Space in 5 Simple Steps

Now more than ever, people are looking for savvy and budget-friendly ways to increase the value of their property. It's something that I'm working on, slowly and with a very small budget but we all have to start somewhere.

Improving the garden is a great place to start. With some redecoration and landscaping projects, you can transform your outdoor space into a stylish and functional area, perfect for entertaining and relaxing and this can often be done frugally. Outdoor improvements help you to make the most of your garden while adding more value, too.

Here are five of the best ways to upgrade your outdoor space and boost the value of your home in the process.

Define the space

Firstly, having a clear vision and plan for your garden will help you to start your project efficiently. Working with direction means you can prioritise tasks accordingly and focus on the areas that require the most of your attention.

Try to decide whether you’d like a dining space, a lounging area, or a tranquil garden retreat. If you’re working with a patio or covered area, you could use outdoor rugs, distinct furniture arrangements, and large planters to create distinct zones.

Add comfortable seating

Secondly, it’s worth choosing quality furnishings.

Maximise your budget to invest in comfortable, weather-resistant garden furniture like teak or rattan. Keep things inviting with cushions and throws but remember to store them safely inside when the cold weather returns.

Make sure you’re only adding furniture to give your garden practical value. If you’re planning on selling your home, anything bulky or too ornamental may distract potential buyers.


Add lighting for ambience

The right lighting will help you to achieve the perfect welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’ve installed a pergola or you’re improving the patio, little lanterns or festoon lights add a warm, inviting glow to your space.

String lights can be draped across trees, fences or other structures in your garden and they’re perfect for garden gatherings. If you can’t connect a mains power supply to your patio, there are plenty of solar-powered options to choose from, too.

Incorporate greenery

Planting shrubs, flowers and young trees can significantly improve the ambience of your outdoor space. Try to choose a mix of potted plants, hanging baskets and vertical features to give your garden shape and texture.

It’s best to choose plants native to the UK or those that can withstand the local climate. However, if you’ve got plenty of time on your hands or you’d like to work with a gardener, you could create a fantastic display with exotic and subtropical plants.


Don’t forget the personal touches

Finally, you should add some unique and memorable elements to reflect your style. Consider outdoor ornaments, sculptures, or a small water feature to create a focal point in your garden.

If you have plenty of outdoor seating, a fire pit could enhance the space aesthetically and effortlessly improve evenings with friends. Softer accessories like outdoor rugs and pillows might feel more inviting but remember that using these will be weather-dependent.


By following these five steps, you can transform a plain garden or patio into a beautiful, functional space ready for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue or enjoying a quiet evening under the stars, these upgrades will give you the perfect retreat.

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