Transform your garden: design your perfect outdoor living space

With the UK experiencing its warmest start to May on record, many of us are already looking ahead to making the most of the summer sunshine. Rhian Barker, Group Design Director at Knight Frank Interiors, offers her expert advice on creating the ideal outdoor entertaining space, from balancing comfort with style to weather-proofing for the ever-unpredictable British climate. She also shares her top outdoor living trends, offering inspiration on everything from furniture and materials to layout ideas that blend seamlessly with your surroundings.

What’s your approach to designing outdoor entertaining spaces?

We design outdoor spaces much like we would an indoor living room - comfortable, layered and set up to bring people together. I always think about how the space will be used; where guests might sit with a drink and the host can still be part of the conversation while prepping food, or how it feels as the light changes through the evening. Shade, heating and lighting are big considerations, making sure the space works from morning coffee to late-night drinks. And, of course, good sound is a must. Music should feel part of the atmosphere, not dominate it. It's about making the space feel inviting, thoughtful and easy to live in.

What are the first things someone should consider when planning their space?

Watch how the light moves across the garden throughout the day. That tells you a lot, for example where it will be too hot to sit at lunchtime or too dark by dinner. Then get a clear idea of how the space will be used. Is it for quiet dinners, big weekend lunches or casual drinks? That shapes everything from layout to furniture choices. Also think about how many people you usually host, so the space doesn’t feel either overcrowded or underused. Additionally, make the most of the views, whether that’s out to the landscape or inwards to a focal point like a fireplace or sculpture. 

What types of furniture work best outside?

We look for pieces that can handle the elements but still feel elevated. Teak and timber age beautifully and bring warmth, and outdoor upholstery has come a long way - it really lets us create that indoor comfort outside. I like to mix it up too, for example introducing stone or ceramic tables and woven textures, ensuring nothing is too matched. A rug helps ground the space and gives it that finished feel. It’s about layering materials that last and add character.

How do you introduce texture, colour, and pattern in a way that complements the natural surroundings?

We bring these elements in through soft furnishings such as rugs, cushions or parasols. They’re easy to update and bring instant personality. I don’t tend to go for furniture sets; I’d rather build up a collection over time that reflects the client's style and the landscape around them. Mixing textures - linen next to timber, metal with woven materials - keeps it interesting without feeling overdone. It’s about letting the natural backdrop do the heavy lifting, and then adding just enough detail to feel considered.

How important is the right lighting?

Lighting is what makes the space work after dark. You want layers - softer ambient lighting for mood, and more specific task lighting where it’s needed. We always plan for flexibility. This could be pendants over a table on dimmers, low-level path lighting or lanterns around seating. It’s not about flooding the space with light but creating a setting that feels warm and welcoming. If done right, it’s what makes people want to stay out just that bit longer.

What tips do you have for making an outdoor space usable across seasons?

It starts with choosing pieces that can stay out year-round, such as those made from solid timber, stone or powder-coated metals. Then we layer in the comfort depending on the season. In winter cushions and textiles can be stored, but the space still needs to feel good without them. We also look at ways to add warmth, such as fire pits, heaters or even just blocking wind. It’s about making it feel like a natural extension of the home, no matter the time of year.

Which accessories do you love using outdoors?

Anything that makes people want to stay longer. Cushions, throws, blankets - all those soft touches that make a space feel cared for. Rugs help define areas and bring in colour and texture. I also like practical items with a bit of charm, for example welly stores, boot racks, or a nice basket of throws for cooler evenings. These finishing touches make the space feel less like a showpiece and more like somewhere you want to live in.

Can you share some of the current trends in outdoor entertaining?

Multi-zone layouts

Outdoor spaces are becoming more layered, with cooking areas, dining setups, and separate lounge zones all within one cohesive design. It’s about creating moments throughout the garden.

Outdoor kitchens that do more

We’re designing full kitchens outdoors now - pizza ovens, sinks, fridges, the lot. It’s not just a barbecue anymore. Materials like stainless steel and natural stone are popular for their look and longevity.

Integrated tech

Smart systems are being used for lighting, sound and even heating. Speakers can be hidden in planters or built into walls, and we’re using solar-powered lighting wherever we can.

Designing for all seasons

There’s more interest in using the garden year-round - items like retractable pergolas, infrared heaters and built-in shelter are becoming staples in our projects.

An organic aesthetic

Even high-spec spaces are leaning towards a natural look, drawing on textures and materials such as terracotta, clay and raw wood. It’s a shift towards relaxed luxury that doesn’t feel too ‘designed’.

Sustainability matters

Clients are asking about rainwater use, reclaimed materials, and energy efficiency. We’re always looking at how we can make the space not just beautiful, but responsible too.

Need help creating your dream outdoor space? Contact Knight Frank Interiors for further information.