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AN ICE-COLD ROSÉ OR A CHILLED MARGARITA? WHATEVER YOUR TIPPLE OF CHOICE, ENJOY IT OUTSIDE BY INSTALLING YOUR VERY OWN DRINKS ZONE
FEATURE RACHEL CHRISTIE
1 AVOID THE SLIP
Marazzi Cementum stoneware is a great option if you’re considering installing an outside bar. The concrete-effect flooring replicates the inspiration material’s sensation and aesthetic, but with anti-reflective glazes to make it ideal underfoot where there might be spillages due its anti-slip, soft-touch matt surface.
Plus, because it can be used both indoors and out, it’s the perfect choice if you want to continue your kitchen flooring into the garden, creating a smooth indoor/outdoor flow. Space for a pool to accompany your bar? Even livingetc.com better.
2 BESPOKE BAR
If budget isn’t an issue, then it’s worth considering a custom-made bar. ‘A bar could be used as a breakaway space in a separate area of the garden where you can relax and entertain friends,’ say the landscaping experts at Landform.
‘Inspired by the gardens of Hotel Alma in Barcelona, this garden features a bespoke multifunctional bar surrounded by generous planting. The bar area offers a serene oasis in the middle of the bustle of urban living, complete with low seating summer lounging.
Summer is finally here and we’re all aiming to make the most of our outdoor space. Whether you have a tiny roof terrace in the middle of the city or rolling acres in the countryside, it’s worth thinking about adding a garden bar to get the party started. From a trolley you wheel out on occasion to a full-on built-in option designed by the experts, a garden bar will add fun to your space and keep friends and family well-watered – plus, many designs look pretty chic, too.
‘Creating an outdoor bar area is a great way of entertaining within the comfort and intimate setting of your own garden so it should be a practical and relaxed zone that allows you to host parties with ease,’ advises Francesca Birch, designer at Danetti. So what makes the perfect bar? According to Francesca, it’s all about storage and clever planning. She suggests shelves to keep all the essentials to hand, coupled with some discreet storage to hide away those less glamorous-looking elements, such as a bin for all the discarded corks, limes and bottles.
‘You’ll want to ensure you have access to everything you need so a storage unit to keep glassware and drinks on will ensure you are able to enjoy your evening without the need to go indoors constantly,’ says Ben Stokes, founder and interior designer, KAGU Interiors.
‘Consider how you and your guests will interact with the space – a bar that incorporates seating is an interactive, comfortable and
