7 Boho Ideas for Outdoor Spaces (Big and Small)!

Yesterday's Varlborg's celebrations here in Sweden marked the first official day of Spring (you'd never guess - BRRRR!). But there's no way I'm going to let a little rain get in the way of a beautifully relaxed outdoor space, how about you?! Here are my pick of 7 bohemian style outdoor spaces  - each offering some pretty ideas on how to create your own slice of paradise, no matter how small your space and what the weather gods decide to do!

Photography Molly Culver for Camille Styles (don't miss the full studio tour!)

This neutral covered terrace has been kept beautifully simple. To achieve a similar look, paint the wood decking white (using materials suitable for the outdoors) and keep to simple light wicker chairs (the hanging rattan bench* is divine!), lanterns and matting. Large tropical plants such as Bamboo, Bird of Paradise, Hardy Banana and Needle Palm will withstand colder climes and will bring a little touch of Paradise to your outdoor space (even on the gloomiest of days)!

 Lisa Smith

How's this for a reading corner?! All you need it a hammock, printed fabric a few Cactus and a good book!

Photo - Lucy in the sky / Domino   

Swap a hammock for a simple canvas daybed - add a few lanterns and candles and you might just want to stay out all night!

Photography by Anson Smart

Sofa's, linen cushions, a patchwork rug and dappled sunlight are enough to create a simple boho look with a hint of luxe.

Photography: Emily Katz / The Butcher's Daughter (love this entire Insta feed!)

Who needs balmy evenings when you can create your own? A roaring fire (love the tiles!) adds just the right amount of warmth to a small, narrow backyard. Don't forget to add a simple canopy for an extra cosy feel!

Photography: Lynden Foss, Styling by Tahnee Carroll for Spell & The Gypsy (fabulous shop!)

I'm imagining afternoon tea and a large fruit platter (OK who am I kidding... biscuits, cakes...!) under this awning. How idyllic?!

Photography by Sjoerd Eickmans

And finally, a dreamy outdoor dining space, sheltered from the mid-day sun. The look is au natural all the way and long benches mean there's always room for more!

Aaaa, I feel relaxed just looking at these spaces, how about you? Although they all look like they are in warmer climes (bah!), don't be put off! Just add wicker chairs and rugs specifically designed for the great outdoors (I have my eye on the Pottery Barn Solange rug below), candlelight and plenty of textiles. Oh and perhaps an awning to keep the rain at bay!

19 boho pieces for your outdoor space for under $100 / €100

1. Tassel Edged Cotton Throw
2. GODAFTON Candle Set
3. Seagrass Tea Light Holder
4. Hanging Hammock Chair
5. Ridged Cotton Cushions
6. Assorted Brown Glass Votives
7. Solange Synthetic Kilim Rug
8. Open Weave Wicker Patio Accent Chair
9. Avignon Hanging Fabric Planter
10. Candle in Glass Jar
11. Bamboo Pendant Light Large
12. Green Marble Tray
13. Acacia Wood Platter
14. Green Stoneware Round Flowerpot
15. Green Stoneware Flowerpot
16. Wicker Planter
17. Round Seat Cushion
18. Vintage Turkish Kilim Pillow Cover
19. Vintage Outdoor String Lights

Looking for more outdoor space inspiration? Check-out this 19th century Swedish house with an outdoor oasis, an idyllic Swedish cottage with an outdoor kitchen and shower, and 7 outdoor spaces.

Let's go outside (let's go outside), in the sunshine....


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10 Scandinavian Summer Cottages with a Little Extra Alfresco

The Scandinavian summer is all about making the most of the great outdoors, especially after the long, dark winter! Summer cottages are therefore designed to capitalise on the outdoor space. Alfresco living room areas, kitchens and bathrooms are a popular choice, while others might have anything from an outdoor pool to a more simple bathtub! For chillier days there's a sauna, and for everyday there's the lake, fjord or sea for morning, afternoon and evening dips! I hope you'll feel inspired by these ten wonderful Scandinavian summer homes. 

1. A dreamy Danish cottage with a simple outdoor bathroom

2. An idyllic Swedish cottage with an outdoor kitchen and bathroom

3. A Swedish pool villa with aw wonderful outdoor seating area

4. Before and after: A rundown house becomes a dream Danish summer home with an outdoor bath

5. This danish cabin has a lovely outdoor kitchen and living room

6. This idyllic swedish island hideaway has a wonderful outdoor shower! 

7. A charming Norwegian cabin with a relaxed outdoor living room and fjord side views 

8. A Danish hideaway which is close to nature inside and out. 

9. A pared down Finnish cabin with a cosy sauna

10. A Swedish country home with a floating sauna / tiny cottage! 

So many wonderful ideas here. Could you imagine incorporating some of these into your home / outdoor space? 

To be honest, the weather has been decidedly bad this summer so I think I'd opt for a sauna right now! Anna's floating one is really fabulous, don't you think?

With the holidays in full swing, I'm taking a couple of weeks off to be with my family. I hope you have a relaxing fortnight and the sun shines for you! 

See you on Wednesday 9th August! 

Niki

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16 Inspiring Outdoor Terraces for Every Size, Style and Budget

Outdoor spaces are fascinating - there are just so many alternatives and done right, they can become a wonderful extension of your living space. Whether you're influenced by the 'English garden' (my Mother's London borders are packed with blooms and you can't see the patio for pots!), the 'Scandinavian outdoor space' (more often than not: an understated, practical and comfortable affair) or the walled Mediterranean courtyard, where balmy evenings are enjoyed alfresco with a chilled glass of rosé - I hope you'll find inspiration in my round-up of 16 outdoor spaces for every size, style, budget and climate!

1. The romantic urban oasis (above)
I had the pleasure of staying at Hotel Henriette in Paris for the launch of the French version of my Lagom book and it was even more magical in real life! Do as this wonderful boutique hotel and make a feature of a back wall using climbers, a mirror and twinkling fairy lights. Add vintage outdoor furniture for a romantic oasis right there in the city!

2. The urban side alley

Make the most of narrow spaces with slim borders a simple table and string lights!

3. The built in bench

When space is of a premium opt for a built-in bench that lines the wall or fence (it can also be used for storage!). Wisteria, seen in the far right corner, is a great plant for vertical greenery, and it's hardy too. We all know the real hero of this space though: the fireplace! How very hygge!  You can see the complete tour of this little garden here. 

4. The wood burning stove

An old wood burner has been given a whole new lease of life in this lovely Swedish backyard. Loving the bamboo furniture too.

5. The big illusion!
Mirrors can make a small outdoor space feel way bigger. I particularly love old repurposed varieties. This one is available at Aldgate Homes.

6. The window to the world

In an urban environment it can be tricky to carve out a private space. In this pretty Parisian courtyard which once featured on the front of Marie Claire Maison, glass windows ensure a light and airy feel while wisteria and potted Japanese Maples screen the patio from view. That bar table is great too, don't you think?

7. The natural canopy! 

This easy-to-care for space is a natural extension of the house. Vines have been trained along a trellis for natural coverage. Painting outdoor walls is also a great option if you like a little colour!

8. The all-weather 'garden'
This stunning space in Holland gives the illusion that you're outside while actually being housed in a greenhouse! Check out the tiles!

9. The boho-romantic patio!
Can you also feel the warmth and gentle breeze oozing from this sun-dappled terrace? Rattan furniture and bright coloured cushions add to the vibrant and relaxed feel. Word of warning - if you live in cooler climes, make sure you opt for rattan furniture designed to withstand all weathers.

10. The comfy diner! 
It's not always possible to squeeze in a dining area and comfy L-shaped sofa - so why not combine the two. This sofa has been made from concrete and then lined with pretty cushions. I also like that this Moroccan-inspired outdoor patio belonging to actress Shay Mitchell, has been made up of mix and match furniture and lots of vertical greenery for a wonderful, relaxed vibe! See the full tour over on My Domaine.

11. The treat your feet!
In the summer it's not unusual to wonder outside bare foot - so why not treat them to something soft? Rugs are a perfect way to make an outdoor space feel cosy. If you live in a rainy place (story of my life!) select rugs specifically designed for outdoor areas. 

12. Warm Minimalist

Who said minimalist spaces need feel cold? This beautiful, covered dining area has been created using palm woven chairs and a simple wooden table for lovely, long lunches alfresco. The towels on the wall give the impression that there might just be a pool lurking around the corner... nice! 

13. The Balcony jungle

Bring 'forest bathing' to your balcony with a load of beautiful plants (look closely and you'll see they are all low maintenance perennials - hurrah!). I also love how they've painted the wall dark grey to make the space feel more intimate. A set of string lights add a magical touch after sunset. 

14 . The DIY roof terrace

Unless it's your sole outdoor space, let's face it, roof terraces are often neglected! But there's a simple way to transform them into a comfortable oasis on a budget. This wonderful corner sofa has been cobbled together using a series of shipping palettes. Just add cushions and a pretty climber and you'll have a little oasis in no time. 

15. The hammock

Hands up who else would happily swap places with the person in this picture? We might not be lucky enough to have a pool like this (isn't it lovely?!) but there's usually a place for a hammock (I like this one*) - even on a balcony. Just add a great book! 

16. The pool garden

This would never fly in our garden in Sweden - but a girl can dream, right?! Plus, there might be some of you out there with a space and climate begging for a pool like this. If so, can I come over?! Oh, and it's made from a shipping container - can you believe that?!

Roll on summer and long lunches alfresco! 

For more outdoor inspiration today, take a peek at:

My small backyard gets a cosy make-over
7 boho ideas for outdoor spaces (big and small)
A charming Swedish garden
Alfresco showers!

I'd love to hear more about your ultimate backyard -  and what you loved most from these pictures. Weigh in below if you have the time!

Niki

Photo credits in order of appearance: 1. Herve Goluza / 2. Nanette Wong / 3 & 4. De Zanderik / 5 & 6 Peter Carlsson / 7. Aldgate Home / 8. Marie Claire Maison / 9. Unknown - can you help?! 10. Yvonne Kusters Interior / 11. Gypsy Purple / Katherine Ireland / 12. Shay Mitchell / My Domaine / 13. Unknown - please help me to match this picture with the owner! / 14. Tine K Home / 15. Unknown - can you help pair this picture with its owner? 16 Unknown - great if you can help! / 17. Haciendas Tentadoras - photo by Nils Preston Schlesbusch / 18. Tanqua pools (I am not sure if this is the original credit, if not, please give me a shout below!) 

Affiliate links marked with *

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10 Ways To Maximise Your Tiny Balcony / Outdoor Space!

The days are getting longer, and the sun is starting to flood our homes once again! Yay! With so many of us spending more (if not all) of our time at home right now, it's become even more important to maximise the outdoor space we have. Thankfully there's so much you can do with even the teeny tiniest of balconies - from creating an urban jungle, to watching the world go by from a deck chair. Here are ten inspiring ways you can make the most of your balcony and tap into nature's stress busting qualities, top up on Vitamin D and feel the wonderful warmth of the sun on your face. 

1. (above): Create an urban jungle by lining your balcony with pots at different levels. Balcony fences also make great 'climber' rigging!  

2. Line your balcony with cushions and blankets so you can enjoy your afternoon tea alfresco - and watch the world go by! 

3. Go boho and take your rattan and jute furniture and mats as well as cushions outside - proof that you don't need a garden to get that garden feel! Oh, and you'll keep your furry friends happy too! 

4. Live in a warm country? Shield yourself from the sun with a natural canopy and create a romantic outdoor space with a small round table and vintage chair. Forest bathing in the heart of the city! 

5. Sadly, we can't all enjoy a view of the Eiffel Tower (isn't it magical?!) but we can pack our balcony with pretty flowers and taller plants to create privacy - and add a couple of deck chairs for a true summer oasis! 

6. Carry lightweight furniture such as benches, side tables and blankets outside as soon as the sun shows up (a blanket will keep you warm if the temperatures start to drop!). It's easy to chuck it all inside again once the clouds start to appear! 

FYI IKEA sells outdoor wood balcony tiles like these. 

7. Keep it simple and sophisticated like Nina of Stylizimo's black Norwegian balcony. Shades and sunhat optional! 

8. Go casual and low with a touch of the tropics like Victoria of SF Girl By Bay has done in her outdoor space (I know it's not a balcony, but it can totally be replicated in smaller spaces too). 

9. Use pillars and poles for climbers ( I love a wisteria and clematis) and make the most of your outdoor space to create a herb and vegetable patch. No access to a garden centre right now? Seeds, pips and stones from your kitchen can be super easy to harvest if you google how! 

And why not cosy up your hard outdoor furniture with fluffy sheepskins while you're at it! 

10. No balcony, no worries! Make the most of a wider windowsill to create a window seat - or rearrange furniture to place your comfiest chair by the window so you can enjoy sunny days to the full!  

I hope this round-up has given you a few ideas. Did you have a favourite? 

If you know of anyone that might benefit from these tips, please feel free to share! 

There's a load more beautiful outdoor space for every budget inspiration here: 

16 Inspiring Outdoor Terraces For Every Size, Style And Budget

My small back yard gets a cosy make-over

7  Boho Ideas for Outdoor Spaces (Big and Small)

Bring on the spring sunshine! 

Niki

PS Feel free to add your own tips below!

Credits: 1. Gardenista / Home of script writer Diane Valsonne 2. Anon 3. 4. House & Garden 5. Clem Around The Corner 6. Anon 7. Nina Holst / Stylizimo 8. SF Girl By Bay 9. Anon 10. Alvhem

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10 Small Pools For Every Budget and Outdoor Space

I thought I'd kick off my first outdoor post of the year with a splash. 

Not many know this, but I have a close affinitive to swimming pools. My older daughter Liv is a swimmer - and let's just say we spend a lot of time poolside (are there any other swimming parents out there? If so, you'll know exactly what I mean!). Even so, I still dream of sitting by a pool with a cocktail and page-turner all summer long. 

And lately, I've noticed a surge in popularity in small pools here in Sweden. Generally, anything around 3 square metres (10 square feet) or less is considered a small pool and depth-wise, you're looking at 90 cm (3 feet) for a plunge pool and 120 cm - 150 cm (4 -5 feet) for a lap pool. The beauty of this smaller size is that there's a pool out there for almost every budget and outdoor space. 

Ready to feel inspired? Let's dive in.....

Round pools

1. I love this plunge pool built into the deck of Bruer Cabin designed by Lundberg Design. Behind it is a slightly larger, 425 cm /14 feet deep pool made from a repurposed livestock water tank. A perfect sustainable watering hole in which to cool off in the Sonoma sunshine. 

For a really budget friendly option, use an old bath - like the one at this Danish summer house. 

2. This repurposed concrete water tank pool accessed via a bridge was installed in the garden of Mount Ninderry in Queensland, Australia - a sustainable and budget friendly home project by Sparks Architects. Such a clever idea! 

3. Designer Raili Clasen of Raili Ca Design added this raised year-round round to the garden of her 1950s cottage to create a calming oasis in which to relax with her husband and their pooch. I'm a huge fan of these wooden tubs - which can also come with a wood burning stove for heat (I've been looking into this for our little cabin).  

Square/ rectangle pools

4.There's something wonderfully fuss-free about this square plunge pool - dip in, cool off, return to whatever you were doing! Or pour yourself a drink and hang out for a while. 

5. This sunken in pool at artist retreat La Maison Marrakech offers a lush place to keep cool and relax on a warm day. 

6. Simple steps lead down to this minimalist plunge pool. I love the shower area which has been built-in to the wall too. 

7. Sometimes the best things come in small packages - and I can totally imagine coming home after a long day and enjoying a soak surrounded by vertical greenery in this lush townhouse garden. 

The thin pool

8. OK, maybe this one isn't really a 'small pool' but I thought I'd include it since it maximises the use of outdoor space by following the contours of the house. Just in case you need to 'test it out' for yourself, this incredible Eco Bush Retreat is available to rent via Airbnb. Just saying! 

9. Just wide enough for a breaststroke glide (although you might struggle with butterfly), this lush, long pool idea is perfect for narrow spaces. Plus, the raised succulent bed adds shade. 

10. No garden? No problem!  This rooftop ledge in France has been transformed into a small pool overlooking the rooftops. 

What do you think, could you imagine installing a small pool at home? Or perhaps you have first-hand experience of owning a pool - if so, please do share your thoughts below! 

Looking for more outdoor space inspiration today? Check out: 

10 ways to maximise your tiny balcony / outdoor space

16 inspiring outdoor terraces for every size, style and budget

7 boho ideas for outdoor spaces - big and small

16 beautiful outdoor bath and shower ideas

8 ways to pep up your outdoor space - Scandinavian style

I have to admit, we woke up to snow here in Malmö this morning - so summer is feeling very far away.  It doesn't stop me dreaming though!

Har det så fint! 

Niki

*If you're thinking of installing a pool, please visit Pool Safely (from the Consumer Product Safety Commission) for important information on pool safety. 

Credits: Main image: unknown 1.Bruer Cabin by Lundberg Design 2. Sparks Architects 3. Raili Ca Design / Karyn Millet La Maison Marrakech 4. Unknown (Pinterest) 5. La Maison Marrakech 6. Unknown 7. Alisa & Lysandra - Albert Park Series 8. Airbnb - Eco Bush Retreat / 9. Hither & Tither 10. We Peps

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