Tell Us How You Use Your Outdoor Space and We’ll Tell You How to Make It Better at IKEA
Your outdoor space is really another room of your home — and just like the rooms inside your home, you’ll enjoy your patio or backyard most if it’s designed thoughtfully. That means taking a moment to think about your summertime personality. Pop quiz: What’s the one thing you’re most excited to do outside when the weather gets warm?
Whether your answer is throwing epic BBQs or tending a blooming garden, let that intel guide you to an outdoor space where you can relish every sunny day and warm evening. IKEA has stylish design solutions for every size space and budget — whether you want to host an al fresco dinner party or read a whole novel in one beautiful afternoon. Here’s how we’d outfit three such spaces.
If You Like to Garden…
We don’t need to tell you that the weather is getting warmer: You’ve been getting your garden ready since March. Create an outdoor setup where you can grow with ease. Organize plant pots and tools with the incredibly sturdy KOLBJÖRN shelving unit. Thanks to easily adjustable feet, it can stand evenly on uneven surfaces. (Or perhaps you favor the industrial-chic vibes of the KOLBJÖRN cabinet?)
Add some new plant pots to your collection, like the terracotta BRUNBÄR or the subtle gray NYPON; you can never have too many. Don’t forget a SOCKER watering can. Then sit back and admire your handiwork: The just-the-right-amount-of-rustic TÄRNÖ table and chairs set makes a comfy perch without taking up too much precious planting space, while SVARTRÅ string lighting complements the vibe.
If You’re Always Throwing an Al Fresco Dinner Party…
Calling all people who have strong feelings about cooking with charcoal: This is your time to shine. Stay ready for a delicious summer with a cooking dining setup worthy of those recipes you’ve been perfecting. The sleek, durable GRILLSKÄR will make you the hero of your BBQ. (If you want to create an entire outdoor kitchen, you can upgrade your GRILLSKÄR to include a sink unit and/or kitchen island, which are sold separately.) Pick up new accessories, like the GRILLTIDER tool set and apron, to make ingredient prep easier.
While you handle the food, give your guests a place to gather. The elegantly organic NÄMMARÖ conversation set can comfortably seat your whole crew — and is especially inviting with colorful GULLBERGSÖ cushion covers. When it’s time to eat, switch to the NÄMMARÖ dinner set, which comes with a table, two chairs, and a bench. And don’t forget the ambient lighting: Set the table with a BORRBY lantern and train SVARTRÅ string lighting along your fence, railing, or wall.
If You Love Relaxing Solo…
To you, summer sounds like the quiet turning of pages. You love nothing more than a sunny day with a new book or podcast, a cold drink, and your phone set to do not disturb. Start with the most important part of any restful retreat: comfy seating. The cozy NÄMMARÖ chaise has big reading-by-the-pool energy (no pool required). Add a cushion for comfier lounging: The GULLBERGSÖ cover comes in four colorful patterns and won’t fade in the sun.
Next, tune out other distractions: The minimal JOGGESÖ umbrella gives you a break from the sun and a NÄMMARÖ privacy screen makes your patio feel like an intimate oasis. A few finishing touches later, like SOLVINDEN string lights and the VIRKLUND indoor/outdoor rug, and you’ll feel transported to your own private resort.