Spending time outside during the warmer months is one of life’s greatest pleasures. Gentle chatter, clinking ice cubes in glasses and the aroma of freshly cut grass as the sky turns from blue to golden orange. We explore how you can create an outdoor space that you love to relax in with friends and family this summer.

Think about the ways you wish to use your garden so that you enjoy hosting morning, noon and night. British weather can change in an instant, so ensure you design these areas to work for you even when the weather is not at its best.

For drinks on the terrace, you may want low, comfortable seating such as outdoors sofas for a relaxed atmosphere. Perfect for afternoon coffee – or a late night aperitif. Decorate with potted herbs or lavender for a casual yet sophisticated feel.

A dining area benefits from shade, whether that be from a tree, pergola or a parasol, to make for comfortable dining no matter the time of day.

Firepits are hugely popular - and for good reason. Keep warm on chillier evenings, with a warming tipple by the crackling flames.

Consider your lighting; as the daylight fades, you want to be able to see your guests. Solar powered or waterproof lights add to the ambience and create a sociable atmosphere as the sun goes down. Hurricane lanterns are a styl

Dressing your outdoor space makes all the difference and will help your guests to have a wonderful experience, we love looking to

Pinterest for table setting inspiration. Style your table as you would for an indoor dinner party with pressed linen napkins, crockery, and glassware to bring the inside out this summer. Have a read through our previous blog post to find out more.

Natural textures like jute or seagrass work well for outdoor spaces, and sticking to neutrals will allow you to pair accessories together much more easily. Cushions and blankets are thoughtful touches that allow your guests to feel comfortable and at home.

Add some fresh flower stems for a hint of elegance and to tie in the outdoors to your table setting. You could arrange a centrepiece in a large vase or opt for a couple of posies dotted along the table, depending on what is in bloom, you may be able to pick flowers and foliage from your own garden.

Presentation is key

You have taken the time to cook a delicious feast, so do not forget to consider how you will serve your meal too. Glass and slate boards are very versatile, large platters are great for sharing dishes and smaller bowls perfect for dips and nibbles.

Entertaining does not have to be exhausting, make the most of your home appliances to assist you in being the ultimate host.

Use your best glassware, even when entertaining outside. The glassZone in the new Siemens dishwashers will take care of the cleaning, leaving you to enjoy summer evenings spent with your friends and loved ones.

Chill your wines to perfection in a Siemens wine cabinet, drinks are such an important part of entertaining and there is nothing more refreshing than a crisp Provence Rosé on a hot summer’s day.

With Home Connect you can monitor your oven from your phone, so you do not miss out on any of the socialising, but still have food cooked to perfection.

Keep a basket by the back door to store any outdoor furnishings so you can be ready at a moments notice when impromptu guests arrive for a spontaneous sunny evening. However you choose to style your space, ensure it is an extension of your home and that it is not only relaxing for others, but also works for you. Designing your garden to entertain