32 Outdoor Living Space Ideas to Style Your Garden Beautifully
Summer is a prime time to embrace outdoor entertaining. Grilling for the family, hosting barbeques with friends, and alfresco dining in your outdoor living space are all amazing ways to take advantage of blue skies and warm sunshine.
Having the space is one thing, but designing it is another. Whether you have a porch, poolside, patio, deck, or balcony, there’s much to consider. You’ll need creative garden furniture ideas, a new outdoor cooker, or even landscaping inspiration. Read on for 33 modern outdoor living space ideas to make your next summer gathering one for the books.
1. Bring the Dining Room Outside for Al Fresco Meals
Quay 6 Seat Round Dining Set in Linen - £1,749.00
An outdoor dining table is one of the most popular garden seating ideas. Your backyard living space just won’t be complete without a ready-to-go space to sit, eat, and drink. Plus, there are so many outdoor dining sets to choose from!
The one above is a round teak table, but you can also opt for a larger, 6-seat dining set if you have a larger patio or deck. If you’re short on space, consider a compact bistro set for two people.
2. Invest in Weatherproof Fabric for Durability
Luna U-Shape Outdoor Fabric Corner Dining with Rising Firepit Table in Fawn - £5,999.00
Choose a weatherproof outdoor fabric that's designed to stay looking fresh for years. Consider especially durable fabric materials for your chairs, such as rope or rattan. For the table, opt for hardy materials like aluminium or wood. The modern set pictured above is made with special outdoor fabric and beautiful teak wood—so while it's built to last, it doesn't skimp on style, either.
3. Zone off difference spaces
PergoSTET Plus 3m x 4m Rectangular Pergola with 3 Drop Sides and LED Lighting in Grey - £3,999.00
If you have a large deck, patio, or back garden, you'll want to clearly define your seating and dining areas. Outdoor living spaces appear more thoughtfully designed when you "zone off" certain areas. For example, you can use a pergola to neatly cover and define your dining table, lounging nook, or entertainment area. Privacy screens, trellises, rockeries, and awnings are other effective options.
4. Use Multiple Levels for Depth
Luna Outdoor Fabric Double Sun Lounger in Oyster Grey - £1,649.00
A multi-level patio or raised deck is far from a design issue; instead, it's a great opportunity to get creative with your outdoor arrangement. You can use the different levels to help create the distinct "zones" we mentioned earlier and link the levels together with beautiful stone or wooden steps. To make the levels look more cohesive, consider using similar paving materials throughout.
5. Elevate Outdoor Cooking with a Pizza Oven
Fontana Margherita Stainless Steel Wood Pizza Oven Including Trolley - £2,345.00
Having a pizza oven in your outdoor space can provide many benefits beyond just the delicious pizzas you can make. A pizza oven can add a unique feature to your outdoor space. Whether it’s a smaller portable pizza oven or a larger stainless steel oven, it will make the area look all the more modern. Plus, you won’t be limited to making pizzas. You can roast vegetables, bake bread, or cook meats and seafood, all with a delicious wood-fired flavour. This versatility makes it an excellent investment for any outdoor entertainer.
Plus, cooking with a pizza oven encourages socialisation. It provides a unique and interactive experience for guests to participate in, whether it's by helping prepare the food or simply enjoying the delicious results.
6. Create an eye-catching Focal Point
Luna U-Shape Outdoor Fabric Curved Corner Group with Round Firepit Coffee Table in Fawn - £5,999.00
Remember not to overcrowd the area if you’re creating different zones for your outdoor living space. Create one main focal point that draws the eye. For example, a raised fire pit table and corner grouping sofa can instantly draw attention and invite guests to sit and lounge around the fire. If you don’t want your seating or dining space to be the focal point, other ideas include a sculpture, a central tree, or even a stylish water feature.
7. Set Up a Grill Station for Summertime BBQs
Kamado BBQ 22" Ceramic Grill Egg in Matte Green - £849
A grill is a garden summer staple. With a grill in your garden, you can easily prepare a healthy, flavoursome meal for yourself or a group of friends and family. The cooking options are nearly endless: from meats and vegetables to fish and even fruit. Grilling is often faster and more convenient than cooking indoors, as it allows you to cook your food directly over the heat source. Plus, there's that deliciously unique smoky flavour. You can also avoid heating up your home by cooking outdoors on a hot summer day. Hosting summer barbecues can be a fantastic way to build relationships and create lasting memories.
By no means does your grill have to be generic-looking. Even this practical item can be integrated with the rest of your outdoor décor. A ceramic grill egg or a larger stone barbecue are just two of many style options.
8. Kick Back at the Bar
Kalama 6 Seat Rope Teak Firepit Bar Set in Latte - £2,999.00
If you truly want to transform your garden or balcony into a luxury outdoor living space, look into an outdoor bar set.
A modern outdoor set like the teak bar table above is upscale, trendy, and a great way to entertain guests. Plush seat cushions and a built-in tabletop firepit are lavish touches that will keep guests wanting to stay outside and enjoy drinks, conversation, and laughs well into the evening.
9. Keep it Functional
Alba 3 Seat Sofa with Sun Lounger Feature in Latte - £1199.00
With all this talk of exciting new design choices, it’s important to remember to keep your outdoor living space functional. Especially if you’re working with limited space, like a small balcony, you’ll want to make the space multifunctional.
Before you choose your furniture, think about what kind of outdoor entertaining you want to do. Do you want to host movie nights? Prioritise a big sofa set and space for an outdoor movie screen or TV. Do you want to show off your grilling chops? Set aside room for a new grill setup and dining set instead. An outdoor kitchen can be a focal point, but it may be more functional to have the outdoor appliances tucked away so the loungers and other furniture have the spotlight.
10. Mix Up Materials
Tivoli 6 Seat Dining Set with Marble Dining Table in Fawn - £4,749.00
Looking for some exciting ways to elevate the design of your outdoor living area? Mix and match materials to your heart’s content.
Different coloured tiles, outdoor rugs, and bright accent pillows are great places to start. Don’t feel limited to one texture. Wicker furniture looks great next to both wood and metal, for example. If you’re not sure everything will come together, try making a mood board with pictures of the different materials side-by-side before committing to making purchases.
11. Have a Separate Structure for the Outdoor Kitchen
Napoleon 700 Series 32" Built-in Gas Grill - £2,339.00
While it can be super convenient to have your grill, sink, pizza oven, and dining table right outside your back door, you may also want to consider having a separate structure for your outdoor kitchen. A separate structure for an outdoor kitchen island makes the outdoor dining area feel self-contained and separated from the rest of the house. Consider a luxury pergola with a slatted roof or a gazebo that’s just a short walk away from the house.
12. Anchor the Space With an Area Rug
To make your backyard feel like an outdoor living room, tie the space together with an area rug. A cobble grey rug helps to anchor the large parasol above the seating area, making the deck furniture feel more like a unit. An area rug is also a great way to add more colour or texture to the space.
13. Make it Comfy
Luna 3 Seat Outdoor Fabric Sofa Set with Rising Firepit Table in Grey - £4,149.00
If you’ll be cooking, entertaining, and hosting parties outside all summer, you’ll also need to think about comfort. Where will guests be sitting, and how can you make the seating areas plush and inviting?
An excellent way to upgrade the comfiness of your outdoor space is with a large corner sofa set. Everyone will be able to lounge and converse around a coffee table. Or, if you want multiple smaller sofas, consider two three-seat sofas that face each other. Finally, don’t forget plush outdoor accent pillows and scatter cushions for ultimate comfort.
14. Look for Modern Lighting
Bob Small Table Light in Charcoal (3 Pack) - £119.99
There are so many options when it comes to lighting an outdoor living room. However, the open-air setting allows you to elevate your design with truly unique outdoor lighting options. Check out hanging fire displays like the one above for a fascinatingly beautiful light fixture.
15. Provide Additional Seating Options
Nola Sunlounger in Fawn - £999.00
Whether it’s a corner sofa or a sizeable U-shaped lounge sofa, you may already have a plan for a central seating area. However, if you have an expansive outdoor space, consider providing additional seating options. A sun lounger or two by the pool will invite guests to soak up the sun. A hanging chair in the garden or under the shade of your porch is another nice touch. Soft ottomans can also double as seating options. These additional seating areas will make your garden an ultra-relaxing space with a spot to lounge around every corner.
16. Take Advantage of Tile
Pello 8 Seat Oval Dining Set with Ceramic Table in Grey - £2,999.00
Tiles are an excellent choice for outdoor flooring since they’re durable, easy to clean, and come in so many different colours and designs. You can choose from natural stone, porcelain, or ceramic tiles, depending on your preference.
If you have an outdoor kitchen, consider using tiles as a backsplash. This can add a pop of colour and texture to your space while protecting your walls from cooking splatters and stains. Or, consider using tiles that introduce a bold colour or pattern to create a focal point in your space. You can use tiles to create intricate designs, adding a touch of elegance, sophistication, and beauty to your outdoor space.
17. Choose the Perfect Fire Pit
Luna 3 Seat Outdoor Fabric Sofa Set with Rising Firepit Table in Oyster Grey - £4,149.00
A fire pit is a lovely addition to any outdoor space. The right fire pit can be a stunning centrepiece for your outdoor living room, adding visual interest and ambience. You can choose from a wide range of designs and materials to suit your style.
What better way to end a summer barbeque than with an evening gathered around a fire pit? You can roast marshmallows, toast the day, or just sit around the fire and enjoy each other's company as the sun sets and the stars come out. Sitting around a fire pit can create a calming and peaceful atmosphere that encourages relaxation and conversation. Some are even designed for cooking, allowing you to grill or cook food over an open flame in a free-standing or tabletop fire pit.
18. Create a Poolside Paradise
Panama 3 Seat Sofa with Sun Lounger Feature in Charcoal - £1,299.00
If you have an empty area by your pool, giving it an upgrade can be a fun and rewarding summer project. Look into outdoor furniture like a lounger or dining table to place by the pool. Select materials that are durable and suitable for outdoor use, such as waterproof fabric. Consider incorporating natural elements such as wood or plants to create a calming and inviting atmosphere near your pool. Add some shade with a parasol or two to protect lounging guests from the sun's harsh rays.
If you have a pool house, that’s another prime place to incorporate a complete outdoor kitchen with a built-in grill, fridge, sink, pizza oven, and prep space. Consider adding features to your pool, such as a waterfall, to make the space even more tranquil and relaxing. Finally, provide water-resistant storage containers for towels, sunscreen, and other poolside essentials. With these outdoor living ideas, you can upgrade your porch, deck, garden, or balcony in time for the warm weather. Seek out design choices that feel the most exciting and practical to you. Make the most of summer this year by setting up a joyful, luxurious space for friends and family to gather and make lasting memories.
19. Explore outdoor living space ideas on a budget
Paulmann - Outdoor Lampion LED 3.6m Fairy Lights in Warm White - £29.99
With a bit of creativity, even the simplest garden can feel like a designer retreat. Repurpose indoor furniture with weatherproof covers, add inexpensive string lights for evening ambience and use potted plants to frame your seating area. Upcycle crates into tables, or opt for foldable chairs that can be easily tucked away to make more space.
20. Embrace the high-texture decorating trend
Panama Luxury Outdoor Large U-Shape Corner Sofa Set in Latte - £5,749.00
Mix various textures to give your outdoor area a sense of depth and warmth. Combine woven rugs, rope furniture, wooden accents, and layered soft furnishings to bring the indoors outdoors. Place knotted pouffes beside minimal aluminium tables to create contrast or linen scatter cushions paired with a slatted wood bench for a look that’s relaxed but full of personality (and surprisingly easy to achieve.
21. Use a pergola to define your outdoor space
One of the easiest ways to give your outdoor space a sense of purpose is to use your pergola to carve out dedicated zones for hosting dinner outdoors or creating a peaceful corner to unwind. Style it up with trailing plants or fairy lights, or take it further with outdoor curtains for privacy, lanterns for a soft evening glow, or a hanging chair for a cosy finishing touch.
22. Introduce lush greenery with vertical gardening
Palma 10 Seat Rope Extending Dining Set in Grey - £3,799.00
Short on floor space but want more plants? Vertical gardening is the answer. Install wall planters, tiered shelves or trellises to fill blank walls with vibrant foliage and flowers to boost the visual appeal of your garden while adding privacy and cool shade. Adding height, colour and texture, it's a simple way to add more personality to smaller patios or balconies without taking up space. Even if you’re short on square footage, you can still create a garden that feels layered, inviting and full of life.
23. Add warmth with layered lighting
Paulmann - Onzo 2.6W LED Mobile Table Lamp with 3-Step Dim in Black - £49.99
Lighting has the power to transform your outdoor space from functional to magical. Swap harsh overhead bulbs for a soft mix of glowing string lights, flickering lanterns, and low-level path lighting to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Hang pendant lights over the dining table, scatter candles or table lamps on side tables, and let solar stake lights guide the way through your garden.
24. Add an awning for shade
4m x 3m Electric Motorised Awning in Grey - £1,899.00
When the sun's out in full force, an awning can be a game changer on south-facing patios or exposed decks. Awnings give you a cool, shaded spot to relax, eat, or catch up with friends so you can stay outside even when the sun is strong. They’re a smart and space-saving alternative to pergolas or parasols. Go for a retractable design to switch easily between sun and shade, and style it up with outdoor curtains, trailing plants, or festoon lights for a cosy, sheltered feel.
25. Bring Mediterranean charm with terracotta pots
Lucca 8 Seat Dining Set with Ceramic Top Table in Natural Weave - £5,249.00
The timeless, rich and earthy tones of terracotta pots instantly transport you to the Mediterranean, especially when filled with olive trees, lavender or cascading herbs. Dot them along a pathway, cluster them around seating areas, or use a few oversized pots to anchor key zones and add a rustic, sun-kissed finish.
26. Create a cosy corner with an outdoor sofa set
Enna 3 Seat Sofa Set with Coffee Table in Fawn - £3,249.00
A comfy outdoor sofa set can turn even the quietest garden nook into a spot you’ll never want to leave. Look for deep, cushioned seats and a low coffee table for a living room feel that’s perfect for relaxed gatherings or solo unwinding. Add throws, soft pillows and a tray for drinks and snacks, and suddenly, your outdoor space feels just as cosy as your indoor one.
27. Relax in a sun lounger
Selene Daybed in Fawn - £1,899.00
Nothing beats stretching out on a lounger with a cold drink and a good book when the sun comes out. Place yours near the pool, on the patio, or under a shady tree, and opt for a reclining design with breathable fabric for all-day comfort. Style it with a small side table, scatter cushions and a parasol for the ultimate lounging zone.
28. Add functionality with an outdoor kitchen island
Napoleon 700 Series 44" Built-in Gas Grill - £4,269.00
An outdoor kitchen island is a must-have for effortless outdoor cooking and entertaining, providing space to prep, cook and serve without ever needing to dash back indoors. Choose a setup with built-in storage, a sink and a mini fridge to keep essentials within easy reach. Add bar stools or a counter overhang, and your guests will naturally gather around while the food’s on the go.
29. Use decorative screens and trellises for added privacy
Stylish screens and trellises do double duty, offering privacy while enhancing aesthetics. Use them to section off a lounge area or hide an unsightly wall or bin. Choose natural wood or metal designs and let climbing plants weave their way through for a softer, more organic feel.
30. Upgrade your garden with a dedicated lounge area
Quay Corner Dining Set with Armchair in Linen - £2,549.00
Sometimes, all you need to fully enjoy the outdoors is a space to put your feet up and unwind. A dedicated lounge area complete with a plush lounge set, coffee table, and linen cushions creates an inviting spot for everything from morning coffees to evening catch-ups. Add a rug for extra cosiness and comfort, and some soft lighting to create a true extension of your home. Add a rug to amp up the cosiness and comfort, and some soft lighting to create a true extension of your home.
31. Make the most of a small space with compact furniture
Sorrento Armchair with Ottoman in Taupe - £869.00
Small garden? Go for scaled-down pieces like foldable chairs, stackable stools, or a slimline bistro table that won’t dominate the area. Lightweight, movable designs let you easily reconfigure your layout, depending on the occasion. Add a vertical planter or slim shelving for greenery for a compact space that feels thoughtful and calm.
32. Enhance the atmosphere with a water feature
Is there anything that evokes calm, like the gentle trickle of water in the background? We think not. Whether it’s an ornate fountain, a ceramic bowl bubbler, or a sleek modern design, a water feature softens the space, masks noise and creates a focal point that draws you in. For the best effect, place it near a seating area so you can soak in the sound.
Bringing your outdoor living space ideas to life
Turning inspiration into a real, liveable outdoor space starts with a few practical considerations. Look at what you're working with—a roomy garden, a city balcony, or something in between. The amount of space will guide everything from furniture size to the flow. How will you use your space? Is it where you'll catch up with friends over drinks, unwind with a book in the evening sun, or gather the family for weekend lunches? When you’re clear on how you’ll use the space, it’s much easier to pick a layout, furniture and features that actually fit how you spend time outside.
Budget is another key player. Prioritise the essentials—a comfortable place to lounge, a dining spot, or a decent shaded area—and build out from there. If you're short on time or prefer low-effort upkeep, look for weatherproof materials and low-maintenance plants to cut down on chores. When it comes to layout, work with the shape of your space rather than against it. In larger gardens, create distinct zones with rugs, planters or furniture groupings. For patios or balconies, go vertical with shelving or wall planters and opt for foldable or stackable furniture to keep things flexible.
Discover the best outdoor living space ideas for your space
With the right mix of design and functionality, your garden, patio or balcony can become the ultimate summer retreat. The outdoor living space ideas above are all about shaping your garden around the way you live, whether that means lazy afternoons on the sofa, dinners under the sky, or evening drinks with friends after a long day. Bring your vision to life and explore Harbour Lifestyle’s curated collections of stylish, weather-resistant garden furniture made for every kind of outdoor living.
Shop the full range or head to the blog for more inspiration.
FAQs
How much does it cost to build an outdoor living room?
The cost of building an outdoor living room can vary widely depending on the size, materials and features you include. A simple layout with a small sofa set and lighting might start at £1,000, while larger spaces with fire pits, pergolas, or full outdoor kitchens can reach £5,000 or more. Think about what you’ll use the space for most and prioritise those elements to keep your budget in check.
How can I create an outdoor space without a patio?
You don’t need a built-in patio to enjoy a stylish outdoor space. Use weather-resistant rugs to define your area, and choose lightweight or foldable furniture that’s easy to move around. Add planters for greenery, create shade with a parasol or pergola, and focus on cosy details like cushions and lighting to bring it all together.
How do I create an outdoor living space on a budget?
Use weatherproof covers to repurpose indoor furniture, string lights for ambience, and DIY planters or crates for charm. Add soft cushions for comfort.
What should be included in an outdoor living space?
Key elements include seating, shade (like a pergola or parasol), lighting, and greenery. Add a dining set or fire pit to enhance comfort and functionality.
How do I design an outdoor living space in a small garden?
Choose compact, multi-use furniture like bistro sets or foldable chairs. Go vertical with wall planters and keep your colour palette light to open up the space.
What’s the best flooring for an outdoor living area?
Tiles, composite decking, gravel, and outdoor rugs are popular options. Choose weather-resistant, low-maintenance materials to suit your climate and style.
Can I have an outdoor living space without a garden or patio?
Yes. Even balconies or terraces can become outdoor living areas with space-saving furniture, vertical greenery, soft lighting, and modular storage solutions.
How do I make my garden feel like an extension of my home?
Use rugs, layered lighting, and furniture in natural tones to mirror your indoor style. Add throws, planters, and personal touches to create a seamless feel.
What’s the difference between a garden room and an outdoor living room?
A garden room is often enclosed or semi-enclosed (like a pergola or gazebo), while an outdoor living room is a styled open-air space with comfort-focused furniture.
How do I add privacy to my outdoor living space?
Use tall plants, decorative screens, trellises, or pergola curtains to create defined, private zones without making the area feel closed off.
What are some outdoor living space ideas for entertaining?
Install a bar set, fire pit dining table, or outdoor kitchen island. Add ambient lighting and plush seating to encourage relaxed, social gatherings.
How do I light an outdoor living area for evenings?
Combine string lights, lanterns, low-level path lighting, and solar table lamps. Dimmable or layered lighting helps set the perfect evening mood.
