Looking to make even the smallest of outdoor spaces feel effortlessly relaxed and super welcoming? Just add greenery.
COMPILED BY Robyn Alexander PHOTOS Elsa Young / Frank Features (Malmesbury); Elsa Young / Courtesy of La Grange Interiors; Warren Heath / Bureaux (Cape Town); Supplied
Green Dream
Plants make everything better – and that definitely includes every sort of outdoor living space. Jacqui van der Post of Indigenus says they “always recommend the services of an expert landscaper whose work resonates with you to plan the entire space”. And it may seem counterintuitive, but smaller spaces in particular benefit from considered landscaping design: we suggest combining a natural flooring option such as decking or gravel with your choice of planters and pots. A water feature is a good idea if there isn’t room for a plunge pool – and don’t forget the climbers, as containing walls overgrown with lush ivy, or scented honeysuckle or jasmine, add a delightfully romantic feel to a space. | indigenus.co.za
This compact outdoor space (above and top) feels larger than it is due to its smart design, which incorporates pre-existing trees. Built-in planters, wooden decking and potted plants also play a part, while outdoor furniture by Douglas and Douglas provides a judicious pop of texture and colour. Wendy-Lee Douglas, creative director at Douglas and Douglas, says comfort and durable materials are the most important components to consider when planning an outdoor living space. “Of course, aesthetics plays a large part too,” she says, “as does creating flow from the indoors to the outside, and adding ambient lighting to set the mood. All these elements combined will create the ideal outdoor space.” | douglasanddouglas.co.za
A move towards rounded, organic shapes and a mix of textures – think wood or wood-look aluminium frames with woven elements – is a big trend in outdoor furnishings, and it works especially well in planted spaces. The Haven Collection by MØN Exteriors is a good example, combining rope accents with sturdy construction. | monexteriors.com
Situated off the kitchen, from which it’s visible through Crittall-style windows and French doors, is the courtyard of a Malmesbury home renovated by interior designer Etienne Hanekom. Petite but perfectly formed, the space includes a small water feature (finished with handmade tiles by Veelvlak) that provides the peaceful sound of running water, as well as delicate leopard trees, shrubs and creepers. The Fire Pit Company and Barebones (available at Yuppiechef) make similar compact firepits. etiennehanekom.com | vlvlk.com | customfirepits.co.za | yuppiechef.com
Even the sleekest, most elegant outdoor space – such as this one by Sumari Krige of La Grange Interiors – is softened and enlivened by a pair of planters combining lush underplanting with taller, more eye-catching species. Find similar planter options at Plantr and Indigenus. lagrangeinteriors.co.za | plantr.co.za | indigenus.co.za
As this Victorian house in Cape Town shows, a tiny courtyard can be a welcoming oasis: here, gravel was installed under foot, and terracotta pots used to create a feature wall. The concrete and wood table from Onsite Gallery is surrounded by a vintage daybed and chairs; it’s a charming spot for alfresco lounging or dining. | onsitegallery.co.za
Easy to assemble and disassemble, the lightweight yet sturdy AluAlu range by Kristalia is a re-issue of an outdoor furniture system originally designed by Luciano Bertoncini in 2014. The collection features recyclable, powder-coated aluminium frames and plastic slats, and includes sofas, armchairs, coffee tables and loungers. | kristalia.it
Just a single tall climber or a few potted plants can soften a space and add textural appeal to outdoor living – as do these striking Arenosa outdoor wall tiles in Cotto, a beautiful terracotta shade, which are available locally from Decobella. | decobella.co.za
A covered living space within an expansive garden is a design element worth considering for larger properties, because creating a cosy and more intimate feel is invariably the result. This outdoor room features furnishings and decor by Belgian design firm Gommaire, and includes pieces in reclaimed teak, teak root, PE wicker and powder-coated aluminium. All of these pieces are available locally from La Grange Interiors. gommaire.com | lagrangeinteriors.co.za
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