Home: Create an outdoor oasis for al-fresco living and dining 

We get advice from the pros on how they plan for warmer days and evenings and entertaining and relaxing between the downpours

A sheltered corner surrounded by foliage forms a cosy nook for a summer living and dining area in Sarah Twigg Doyle’s garden.

We have a happy knack for working with summer weather, pretending we’re in the Med, styling our outdoor table for wine, olives, antipasti and salads laden with summer flowers, and being ready for the chink of sunshine or a sudden boost in temperature.

“Invest in an outdoor umbrella for those passing showers,” says interior stylist Barbara Taylor. “Keep a basket of light blankets or pashminas to hand for those cool summer breezes. Invest in nice outdoor dining tableware and glassware. I love nice melamine plates and bowls along with outdoor glasses. The quality has gotten so good over the years. The White Company, Homesense and Marks & Spencer always have some lovely ones each season.”