I’m an interior designer – six things I’d never put on my patio, they’re a total waste of cash
WITH the recent warm weather, you may be tempted to decorate your garden and buy some new items for your patio.
But before you get carried away, an interior designer has revealed the items they would never buy as they are a “waste” of money.
Speaking to Insider, Tyka Pryde Edwards wrote: “Your outdoor space should be an extension of your personality and a place to unwind, not a battleground of regrettable design choices.
“As an interior designer, there are a few things I’d never spend money on for an outdoor space when I’m creating a spot that’s easy on the eyes.”
Here are six things you should avoid wasting your cash on…
1. Black furniture
While black furniture can look chic and sleek, Tyka said you may regret forking out for an outdoor set in the dark colour.
They explained: “Black-top metal dining tables often turn into a hotplate on a scorching summer day. Remember, you’re here to enjoy a meal, not cook your forearms.”
Instead, opt for a lighter colour or a different material.
2. Plastic furniture
A plastic table and chairs set may seem like an appealing option if you are on a budget, but can be “too good to be true”, according to Tyka.
This is because they get damaged more easily, meaning you may have to buy a new set every few years.
This can be due to the sun scorching holes in the material, or them getting snapped or ruined.
3. Inflatable hot tubs
If you are desperate for a hot tub in your garden, an inflatable version can be a more affordable alternative.
However, the interior designer advised against them.
They said the blow-up tubs don’t have the same insulation and heat retention, meaning you may use more energy keeping it at a desired temperature.
Tyka said the “long-term durability” isn’t there with the inflatable tubs, and come with a “side of troubleshooting”.
4. Excessive garden bling
If you want to decorate your garden and add a splash of colour, you may wish to think twice about what you buy.
Tyka explained: “Gnomes, flamingos, and a life-sized replica of the Statue of Liberty can be a little much for your lawn. A touch of whimsy and personal expression is always welcome but there’s a fine line between tasteful embellishment and what can only be described as an enchanted junkyard.”
They said that “less is more” when it comes to lawn ornaments.
5. High maintenance plants
If gardening is your main hobby, it’s fine to get creative when it comes to your plant choices.
However, as soon as your garden turns from a paradise into a chore, it can be a sign you’ve gone too far.
Tyka recommends getting “low maintenance” and “resilient” plants so you can get maximum benefits with minimal effort.
6. Buying fabrics that will fade
There are so many colourful cushions and outdoor rugs being sold in shops which can add a splash of colour on your patio.
But the interior designer said you should take care to not waste cash on materials where the design or colour can fade.
Tyka advised to avoid outdoor furniture with cotton, linen, polyester or nylon fabrics.