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Creating Relaxing Outdoor Spaces: Landscaping the Patios and Gardens of Dubai

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One of the best things about living in Dubai is it’s (winter) weather. It’s gorgeous sunny climate and cool evenings make having an outdoor living space essential to any home. Renovating your patio and garden not only enhances the overall aesthetics but also creates a perfect oasis for relaxation and entertainment – it is basically an extra room! Today, we are going to explore some easy hacks that can transform your patio and garden into inviting and relaxing retreat. From incorporating greenery to creating comfortable seating areas and shading solutions, get ready to elevate your outdoor experience. And with winter only a couple of months away – it’s time to start planning for all those parties!

 

Embrace the Greenery.

One of the toughest things about living in the desert is missing the green! Coming from the UK the Inhabit team are used to being surrounded by leafy greens, tall trees and lush grass. But how can we bring that bit of home here? 
 
Hardy plants and succulents such as bougainvillea, frangipani, or desert roses thrive in our hot and arid climate – so if you don’t have a green thumb, this is where you want to start. Create pockets of greenery with raised planters or vertical gardens to add texture and depth to your outdoor space.
 
Grass can be a bit more difficult to maintain – so astroturf is the way to go. But always try and opt for a higher quality grass. Otherwise you risk stinky fumes once summer really kicks in. 
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Bring the Indoors out!

Your outside space should be an extension of your home. So treat it that way! Create comfortable seating areas that you want to lounge on – but remember when it comes to creating comfortable outdoor seating, quality and durability are key.

Invest in outdoor furniture that is specifically designed to withstand the harsh elements of the Dubai climate. Look for materials that are weather-resistant and can handle the intense heat and occasional sandstorms.

Teak and wrought iron are both popular choices – given their ability to withstand extreme weathers and temperatures, however synthetic wicker furniture has become increasingly popular in recent years. Made from resin or polyethylene, it offers the look and texture of natural wicker but is more resistant to fading, cracking, and weather damage. This type of furniture is lightweight and easy to clean, making it a practical choice for outdoor seating.

Once you’ve selected the right furniture, it’s time to create a cozy and inviting seating area. Add plush cushions in fade-resistant fabrics to provide comfort and style. Choose fabrics that are specifically designed for outdoor use, as they are more resistant to moisture and fading caused by the sun’s UV rays. Consider adding outdoor rugs to define the seating area and add a touch of warmth.

Throw pillows are a great way to add a pop of color and personality to your outdoor seating. Opt for pillows made from durable, weather-resistant materials. Don’t be afraid to mix and match patterns and textures to create a visually appealing and inviting space, just like you would indoors.

Get creative with your seating – you don’t need to just stop at a sofa, mix it up with an egg chair or a sun lounger to add some interest to the space.

 

Time to Throw some Shade

The sun can be RELENTLESS in Dubai, so shading in your outdoor space is a must.

Adding outdoor sails and canopies can provide some much needed respite from the sun – however these are usually permanently fixed, so if you want your shade to be a bit more versatile then opt for umbrellas or even retractable awnings. 

A gazebo can also provide the perfect shelter for an entertainment area, also creating separation in your garden. 

Or if you want to show off your green fingers and boost your environment, why not plant some larger trees, like palms jacarandas, or frangipani.

 

Light it up 

Outdoor lighting plays a crucial role in extending the functionality and enhancing the ambiance of your outdoor space well into the evening hours. Thoughtfully placed and carefully planned lighting fixtures can create a warm and inviting atmosphere, highlight key features, and ensure safety. Here are some ideas to help you make the most of your outdoor lighting:

  1. Ambient Lighting: To create a warm and welcoming atmosphere, consider incorporating ambient lighting fixtures such as string lights or lanterns. String lights can be draped along pergolas, wrapped around trees, or hung across outdoor seating areas to create a magical and intimate ambiance. Lanterns placed on tables or hung from hooks provide a cozy and nostalgic glow. Opt for warm white or soft yellow bulbs to achieve a soothing and inviting feel.

  2. Pathway Lighting: Illuminate pathways and walkways with carefully placed lighting fixtures to guide your guests and ensure safe navigation. Consider using low-voltage LED pathway lights or solar-powered stake lights that can be easily installed along the edges of walkways or embedded into the ground. This not only enhances safety but also adds a charming and elegant touch to your outdoor space.

  3. Accent Lighting: Showcase the beauty of your patio and garden by incorporating accent lighting. Use spotlights or well lights to highlight architectural features, trees, sculptures, or water features. Play with light and shadow to create a dramatic effect that adds depth and visual interest. Consider using colored LED lights to create a vibrant and festive atmosphere for special occasions or gatherings.

  4. Outdoor Wall Sconces: Install outdoor wall sconces to provide functional and decorative lighting. These fixtures can be mounted on exterior walls, pillars, or fence posts. Choose styles that complement your home’s architecture and outdoor aesthetic. Wall sconces can enhance the overall ambiance of your outdoor space while providing ample lighting for areas such as entryways, seating areas, or outdoor kitchens.

  5. Smart Lighting Systems: Embrace technology by integrating smart lighting systems into your outdoor space. These systems allow you to control and customize your outdoor lighting through mobile apps or voice commands. You can create lighting schedules, adjust brightness levels, and even change colors to suit different moods or occasions. Smart lighting systems also offer energy-saving features, such as motion sensors or timers, to optimize efficiency and reduce energy consumption.

Go tall

Not got a huge garden space but want to still keep things green?

Why not try vertical gardens! These creative and space-saving wonders allow for growing herbs and vegetables, infusing patios with freshness and practicality.

Ensuring a vertical garden stays healthy and thriving is essential. Installing a drip irrigation system and self-watering planters simplifies watering, ensuring the precious herbs and veggies receive just the right amount of hydration without wasting water in Dubai’s arid climate.

Beyond bringing nature closer to outdoor living areas, a vertical garden creates a lush and refreshing backdrop for seating and dining spaces. It’s a charming and practical element that enhances the aesthetics and maximizes the functionality of patios in Dubai.

Whether you’re implementing a modern and inviting patio, a luxurious and functional outdoor kitchen renovation, or a refreshing vertical garden, remember to have fun with this extra space.  

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