Turn your patch of the great outdoors into a series of rooms with the romantic feel of a private oasis.

The secret to making the most of your outdoor space is to decorate as you would inside. Plan the space around a series of rooms for living, dining and gardening. The abundance of outdoor furniture styled to invite long hours of lounging makes it easy to transform a plain patio into a dream outdoor living room. Add patio lanterns, area rugs and plump cushions in gorgeous outdoor fabrics. Sheer draperies bring an air of romance as they sway in soft breezes and create a sense of enclosure. Include planters on the patio to link the space with the rest of the backyard, and surround the space with plantings that add visual texture and the element of sound.

Summer Colour

Photography: iStockPhoto

The modern wicker lounge set anchors the living area, where colour plays as important a role as it would indoors. A warm apricot dominates and is offset by contrasting blue and white striped cushions and rugs. Planters brimming with blooms of pink, yellow and lavender add layers of colourful interest in shades related to the primary dynamic duo of apricot and blue.

Dining Area

Photography: iStockPhoto

Simple and discreet wooden furniture lets the greenery steal the show. A pretty tablecloth, a bouquet from the garden, lanterns and pretty dishes fashion a lovely, casual, nature-inspired beauty. Folding chairs are practical and can be stored easily. The greenery provides scent, sound (as it rustles) and textural interest.

Photography: iStockPhoto

Tall greenery surrounds a wood slat deck, creating a feast for the senses in the dining area of this private garden.