How to make your terrace cosy in the summer months

Making a terrace cosy can sometimes be a real challenge. You would probably love to cram absolutely everything into it. The advantage of an outdoor space is that it does not have to be used only for drying laundry but also for relaxing in comfort. After all, who would not want to unwind after a demanding working day , enjoy a glass of wine and forget their worries? What is more, if you decorate the space with textiles on your garden furniture, it will be even better.

Planning your terrace

Before you start making your terrace cosy, it is always best to draw up a plan. Then give it a thorough inspection and carry out any repairs. Dust it, clean the floor and clear away the leaves. Do you have artificial grass? If it looks like it has seen better days, do not hesitate to get a new one. Watch out for damp too, as north-facing terraces in cold, rainy climates often become damp over the winter. If the affected area is small, you can remove the damp yourself with a mixture of vinegar and hot water. Do you want your terrace or garden to be practical and stylish? Try out different awnings to protect you from the sun.

You cannot do without furniture

Furniture is part of the essential kit. Good seating is the foundation. There is a wide range of furniture that is sure to make your garden shine. Rattan furniture, for example, seems to please almost every household. A seating area also needs a side table where you can put down a cup or a book. If you plan to eat on the terrace as well, a larger table will suit you better, with enough room for you and your plates. 

The ideal choice is garden furniture that can withstand the vagaries of the weather and will not be damaged by UV radiation. Alternatively, try making your own furniture. Pallet furniture works brilliantly as a temporary solution.

Hang a hammock or a hanging chair

Do you have enough space on your terrace? Use it for a hanging swing chair. Before you go shopping, though, check whether you have somewhere to anchor it. If not, you will need to choose a chair with a stand that requires no drilling. Such a stand needs no installation, but it also takes up more space, which you need to allow for.

Add textiles and cushions

Nothing adds as much comfort as a generous number of soft cushions and throws to snuggle up in during the evening. Textiles simply belong on garden furniture. Ideally, choose one main colour and one or two accent colours. Contrasting colours look great, but if you do not want anything too wild, go for shades of the same colour instead. The choice of patterns is up to you, but they should be easy to care for and practical. In any case, it is best to bring them inside in bad weather .

A rug for the floor

Choose suitable rugs that will give your terrace a lovely atmosphere. What is more, they can also withstand the weather. Some outdoor rugs are waterproof and have no pile, so they are very easy to maintain. On a covered terrace, however, you need not be afraid of pile rugs or jute rugs either.  As well as making the terrace look more lived-in, they will keep your feet warm even when the sun is not shining.

Pleasant shade is essential

Especially if your terrace faces south, you cannot do without good shading. You can choose from various awnings, blinds, waterproof curtains and, of course, the classic parasol. Ideally, choose one that can be easily rotated so that you can adjust the shade as needed. If you do not want to deal with any fixings, you can also use a simple screen.

A barbecue belongs on the terrace

Barbecues are not just for gardens. Fortunately, you can enjoy barbecuing on a terrace too. However, electric and gas barbecues are more suitable. You can also get a classic charcoal barbecue, just make sure you have adequate ventilation sorted.

A heater for cooler evenings

Infrared heaters can come in handy on cooler evenings. They are an economical way of heating, because an infrared heater does not warm the air, only people and objects. The heaters emit only safe infrared radiation, so you need not worry about harmful UV radiation as you would with the sun, even though the feeling on your skin is similar. For larger terraces, a gas heater, which is much more powerful, is the better choice. You will also appreciate one if you do not have an electricity supply.

Do not forget the flowers

Terraces are ideal for putting many houseplants outside for the summer and for growing outdoor plants in pots. Do you like hydrangeas or roses? Nothing could be easier than planting them in a pot. Fortunately, there are so many varieties available today that you can take your time choosing. For pots and planters that will stay on the terrace all year round, choose ones that can withstand outdoor conditions. They are usually labelled as frost-resistant.

You can also put geraniums, lavender, citrus trees, herbs or strawberries on your terrace. It all depends on what your space allows.