Many of us will have spent more time in our home and garden in the past 18-months than we ever thought we would. During the pandemic there has been an increase in home renovation due to people having more time to DIY, and the monotonous boredom of looking at the same 4 walls day in and day out. However, this makeover doesn’t have to stop indoors. If you live in rented accommodation, then you may not have the freedom to do whatever you please to revamp the garden. The last thing you want to do is uproot your landlords sentimental bay tree or destroy the rose bush they spent years tending too. But here are some easy ways to personalise the space, without risking losing your deposit.
Potted Plants
A potted plant can transform the most mundane concrete courtyard, and you can fit them into even the smallest of outdoor spaces. Vary up the colours and textures of the pots and add interest by elevating the display levels - smaller pots can sit on side tables, or platforms and hanging baskets can be added for an impressive finish. Be thoughtful about which plants you pick, as you need to make sure they are manageable for your lifestyle, and commitment to caring for them, the last thing you want is your garden to become a plant graveyard. Lastly, don’t forget that whilst a very large pot/plant combo can be a showstopper, when it comes to moving house, you will want plants that you can easily take with you.
Furniture
Although it can be a bit of an investment, adding your own seating to a garden can be the best way to make it feel like your own. Depending on how much space you have may dictate what you are able to get, but there are many options from small bistro sets for couples, to fully fitted sofas that have space for the entire family. They can be practical too, adding an al-fresco dining table, or the comfiest sun-lounger to catch some rays (on the few days a year the sun comes out).
Furnishings
From furniture to Furnishings, this is how you can really make a space feel personalised. Use soft accessories to create a cosy, comforting feel by adding outdoor rugs, cushions, and parasols. If you have the space add a stand-alone hammock for indulgent comfort. Inject personality into your space through outdoor decorative items, the options you can pick up these days are endless - clocks, sundials, mirrors, ornaments. And finally, what outdoor space isn’t complete without the trusty garden gnome!
DIY additions
Nothing screams personalisation more than adding an item that you’ve made with your own green fingered hands, and it’s usually good for the bank balance too. The simple things can sometimes be the most effective such as turning an old pair of wellie boots, or watering can into planters. Or you can go a bit more adventurous such as adding a ladder as a display unit or grow a climbing plant up it. In the past few years, growing your own fruit, vegetables and herbs has become popular. If you don’t have the time or money to have an allotment, then a window box, planter, or even an old bucket is an ideal way to grow your own food all year round – just plant the seeds and watch the magic happen.
Firepit
The firepit has been a revelation following the restrictions imposed by the pandemic, meaning we can meet with friends and family outdoors, whatever the weather. There is an abundance of options to suit any style, and their freestanding nature means they are easy to take with you when it comes to moving. Ideal for a chilly evening, or for roasting marshmallows over, and (in theory) cause no damage to the garden, the firepit is the perfect accompaniment to any outdoor gathering.
Lighting
The firepit’s warming flames can create a comforting ambience on the coldest of days, but take this even further by adding lanterns, outdoor candles in jars, and weave fairy lights around a tree, or strung to a fence to create the most perfect hygge garden. No longer for indoor use only, fairy lights come in many different designs, and with solar-powered options available, so you’re being friendly to the planet too.
Screens & Fences
If your fence is looking a little sorry for itself, ask your landlord if you are allowed to spruce it up with a coat of paint. Alternatively, liven your fence panels up by fixing tin cans with a wire fastening and fill them with tealights, plants and herbs. Do you have an area of the garden that’s unsightly, or just want to hide the bins? Add a garden screen as a decorative feature, and it can also give you a bit of privacy. They are easy to take with you when you move and can really revamp an outdoor space.
Just like the home that you rent, you want to add that personal touch to the garden too, to make it feel like yours, so you can enjoy spending time in it. Although it can be hard work, carrying out a quick mow of the lawn, a spot of weeding and a touch of deadheading can go a long way to make your garden look tidy without having to spend any money. From there you can add all of our tips above to inject your personality into the space and make it the go-to garden for gatherings with your friends and family – just remember, try not to annoy the neighbours!
