Design ideas for the perfect urban garden

Folding or stacking garden chairs are a great way to add extra seating when needed or they can be easily tidied away to free up floorspace when not in use. There’s a wealth of stylish modern stacking and folding furniture now available, from stacking dining sets in beautiful handwoven wicker to sleek aluminium multi-position folding chairs that allow you to recline in style. Chairs can even be paired with folding or stackable footrests, so you don’t never need to compromise on comfort

Round tables take up less space than similar-sized square or rectangular tables because their curved edge means there are no corners sticking out. They are also far more sociable, as everyone is facing one another. However, you can push a straight-edged table up against a wall or into a corner to save space, so think about the area you have to play with and what works best. 

Keep seating low, comfy and plentiful with modular sofa units for relaxed entertaining. Softer seating can make your outdoor space feel bigger and avoids the limitations that more formal dining sets can impose on some small urban gardens. Handy extras like the side table on this Topaz corner daybed are an added bonus. Bring the look together with cosy throws, an outdoor rug and warm lighting for real atmosphere. 

A modern aesthetic works well in urban spaces and can allow you to zone areas and make your entertaining area a focal point. Embrace hardscaping, clean lines, and play with height and textures, incorporating raised planters and aggregates that help you to blur the lines between your indoor and outdoor areas and balance the surrounding architecture with your haven. For a smart multi-use space, picture raised beds filled with low plants, such as echeveria, that can be covered by a removable topper and double up as a bench for extra seating when you’re entertaining. These can even be built out of wooden pallets for a bespoke look on a budget.  

With space at a premium, you’re unlikely to have much room for garden furniture storage, which is why it pays to invest in outdoor furniture that can withstand the elements and stay out year-round. Think hardwearing materials and low-maintenance sets that will continue to look great come rain or shine.  

In fact, if you’re bringing weather-resistant furniture into the mix, it might be worth weatherproofing your outdoor area while you’re at it, ensuring you can enjoy the space throughout the seasons and a wet British summer won’t dampen your spirits. LifestyleGarden®’s Pergolas make a great addition to gardens of all sizes, providing cover when it’s raining, shelter from the wind and vital shade in the warmer months, which can be ideal if your urban garden is a bit of a sun trap.