Operation utdoors

Before the heat starts hitting, make the most of the cool weather in the UAE. If you have an outdoor space, this is the time to indulge in some alfresco-style dining and relaxation with family and friends. It doesn’t matter whether you have a small balcony or a large garden -- all you need to know is how to dress it up to create the right relaxing ambience. “Space could be scarce, so use it properly,” says Dubai-based designer, architect and artist Andre Meyerhans, who shared his knowledge and suggestions with us below. “Your outdoor space can be like an extra room and, with the right styling, it can be made into a comfortable and relaxing oasis. Create zones according to your needs with some interestingly designed lounge furniture, either with and without incorporated shading structures.”

Keep in mind you’ll need the right material and finish to ensure that it will be comfortable, hard-wearing, low maintenance and weather resistant in our extreme temperatures. Just to whet your appetite for the exciting outdoor season, we bring you a range of designs and ideas to get started.

Small balcony

Space is very scarce, so use it properly. Round tables and chairs without armrests are the best. Stackable stools and foldable chairs give more flexibility. Wooden seating surfaces do not necessarily require cushions as the material does not heat up in the sun so easily — an easy way to save storage space. Look for slender and tall plants to put in corners; smaller pots are preferable but need more frequent watering, unless it is a desert plant. Make the most of each available surface — use the railing of the balcony for decoration, to hang candles and pots.

Poolside/deck

Relax in urban chic. There is some interestingly designed lounge furniture, both with and without incorporated shading structures. Materials should be chosen in a way as to endure the strong sun and the moisture that sets during the night or when lying on it after a swim, especially in cushion fabric. Plant leaves often end up in the water, which can be unsightly — a good solution to get the height and visual impact is to use tall planters with aloes or other desert plants in them. Repetition and groups of such elements give a feel of grandeur. A sail can be fixed to independent poles or to an existing wall and make the pool area comfortable even during midday. Sculptural lights and swimming lanterns impress at night.

Garden

Create your private paradise with pergola or cabana — they can be a great focal point and hideaway place at the same time. Or what about a hammock in lush green? A fountain or water feature adds a tranquil background sound. In-situ furniture — from benches and tables to barbecues — can take a sculptural note and is more resistant in this climate. You might wish to omit the umbrella solution in favour of some large, shady trees. These would also be wonderful if illuminated in the night — either directly or indirectly. Heaters and fans can extend the enjoyable outdoor season — but it might just be more ecologically sensible to dress adequately.

Patio/large balcony

This is like your extra room outside, make it comfortable. Deckchairs with a side table invite relaxation minutes. On one short side, an arrangement of plants adds to the holiday atmosphere. Colourfully glazed clay pots of different heights are not only eyecatchers but also lend themselves as places for decorative candles and lights. Try a slender artwork or sculpture, but ensure the material is resistant to the harsh climate. If you are the barbecue guy, why not keep a little grill — but be careful, the smoke might be drawn into your apartment … or your neighbour’s. Check with your building first.

Terrace

In a large open paved space, create zones according to your needs. Next to the terrace door, a table to host guests; in a private corner, a sunbed to read in peace; and an open area for kids to play. Separations between the zone can easily be achieved with movable screens, plant in pots or just by a different floor finish (there are, for example, wooden floor tiles readily available). Different colours for cushions and furniture also help. An umbrella provides shade during the day but also helps to reduce thermal radiation loss during the night, making it less chilly. If you have power outside, decorative lighting adds to the romantic atmosphere. If not, use an extension wire.

— With inputs from Beatrice Boardman, UAE-based freelance writer