- Golden ochre, navy, pink and green – come out as the top favourite cushion colours, according to a new study by M&S
- Pinterest searches for ‘garden seating ideas‘ +50% this month
With Spring and Summer fast approaching, James Rotheram, M&S Insider and Visual Merchandiser at M&S Home reveals three ways to give your outdoor space a makeover. From how to make outdoor seating more comfortable to creating the ultimate garden seating area for guests, he reveals the golden formula to furnishing your outdoor space:
1. This is how many cushions you need to style an outdoor corner sofa
James says: “Finally spring is almost among us, meaning only one thing – it’s time to say hello to BBQing, outdoor parties and working from the garden. Rattan corner sofas make the ideal garden hub for socialising with friends and family outside in the sun.
When it comes to styling a rattan corner sofa for ultimate comfort, James recommends: “Using the rule of three, I’d recommend using cushions designed to be used outdoors and opt for one large square cushion, two small square cushions and two bolster cushions scattered on the sofa. Naturally, this is less than I’d suggest placing on the inside corner sofa as the outdoor cushions will need to be moved regularly so as to avoid weather damage.”
- How to style an outdoor corner sofa: One large square cushion, two small square cushions and two bolster cushion
2. Think about bold and bright accessories
James says: “Nothing beats al fresco dining in the glorious sunshine. Bring the summer sunshine into your cushion ensemble by adding tropical-inspired cushions to each of your outdoor dining chairs. Team these up with bold and bright dining accessories and outdoor decor and you’ll be well on your way to a winning garden party.”
With M&S’ study* also revealing that Brits’ favourite cushion colour is a gorgeous golden ochre, closely followed by navy, pink and green – opt for these shades to add a fresh and striking colour scheme to your garden setup.
- How to style outside dining chairs: One square cushion per chair
3. Add comfort with a sun lounger
James explains: “The sun lounger is a popular garden feature that’s perfect for soaking up the sunshine and enjoying the buzz of nature. Style the recliner with one square cushion that you can rearrange depending on whether you want to prop up your head when lying down or place it behind your back when sitting up. Complete the sunny look with a perfectly placed striped hammam beach towel.”
- How to style an outdoor sun lounger: One square cushion
