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04 MATERIAL MATTERS

Sustainably sourced durable teak is a perennial patio favourite, especially in sleek modern iterations. We also love Sunbrella waterproof fabrics, which are UV and mildew resistant and easy to clean. Opt for recycled-plastic rugs and rechargeable LED bulbs, which are more eco-friendly and just make sense.

05 ON FIRE

Nothing says summer like sitting around a fire with family and friends, grilling up a feast or toasting marshmallows under the stars. Think beyond the traditional gas barbecue and consider expanding to alternative methods of cookery, such as a pizza oven, smoker, outdoor fireplace or firepit, or even a traditional charcoal grill. If you have the budget and space, an outdoor kitchen is still a hot commodity.

06 ROOM FOR MORE

Giving structure to your backyard will make it more like a room. Modular panel systems let you design privacy screens, built-in benches and more. And “indoor” materials like solid surfaces are often durable enough for outdoors, too, and make the backyard feel like an extension of year-round living spaces.

07 HANG IN THERE

The swish swing is – you might say – on the upswing! Whether a hammock, platform bed or chair, if it’s suspended, it’s 2023’s hot seat.

08 HOT POTS

Potted perennials and tropicals bring colour to the patio and also enhance the decor. Lavender in modern containers give a contemporary feel; put the same plant in a classic urn and you’ve got the perfect accent for a traditional terrace. Similarly, tropicals can be mixed in with other annuals, or go for a more minimalist modern look by potting them individually.

09 GROW SLOW

Slow gardening is all about bringing a mindfulness to your horticultural pursuits. It’s about growing your own food and gardening with plants that do well in your area. Slow gardening is the opposite of a high-maintenance approach to achieving perfection in the garden. Rather, the practice encourages you to enjoy the nurturing aspect of caring for plants (and the planet), and relaxing into gardening and gardens: planting vegetables and herbs to engage the senses, growing a strawberry patch for that mouthwatering burst of flavour once a year, and opting for a rake over a noisy leaf blower. Sounds good to us!

10 TLC FOR MOTHER NATURE

To help the birds and the bees along, grow flowers, native plants, fruit trees, and shrubs with berries. Choose plants that bloom at different times to provide a steady diet for pollinators. Collect rainwater, mulch, and keep the soil healthy with compost.

11 TAKE THE PLUNGE

Tiny city lot? A mini plunge pool lets you make a big splash for a smaller cash outlay in a constrained space. Most plunge pools are less than 20 feet by eight feet, with a flat bottom around five feet deep. Perfect for a quick dip on a hot day.

12 BOHO CHIC

Want to bring some tropical island vibes to your backyard? Boho chic gives a beachy look with elements like a fringed or macramé patio umbrella, romantic floral prints and rattan furniture (go for resin versus natural rattan if you want it to stand up to our not-so-tropical weather), then order up a margarita and chill.