Tips to create a green and chic outdoor

I love the outdoor — especially that prime piece of real estate right outside my door. I don’t need to brave the traffic to get somewhere to de-stress because I can, quite frankly, just take in a deep breathe and decompress in that area outside my house.

But in Dubai, be it a small balcony or a sprawling garden, our personal version of the “great outdoors” is left languishing in the sun, neglect and dust. However, things seem to be changing in the city now. Some of Dubai’s best architects and landscape designers have come up with ideas that will lure you out all 365 days of the year.

DESIGN TO LAST

The Middle East’s new architect, Dubai-based Viktor Udzenija does not believe in trends. He shares his philosophy on outdoor design — create them keeping in mind that they’ll be a part of your house forever.

Light and shade

After you have established the areas exposed to the sun and the ones in the shade — and during what time of the day — you can zone functions accordingly. Typically, the pool, decks and game courts benefit from direct sun, while communal zones such as outdoor seating, BBQ stations are better enjoyed in the shade.

Bring the outdoors in

A direct connection to nature is a must for your well-being. The easiest way to achieve this is with large glazed doors or windows between the living spaces and the outdoor areas. Floor finishes of similar colour tones or materials add the concept by making the interiors look larger and more spacious.

For more on the architect and his works, log on to Viktorudzenija.com

BIG TICKET UPGRADES

Mohammad Aboud Al Seoud of Pure Life, one of the region’s biggest landscape contractors and patron of the 1st Dubai International Garden Competition, gives tips on how to revamp your outdoor space.

Eco gardening

Conscientious homemakers are now scouting for eco-friendly products, such as recycled and upcycled gardening materials. Invest in native plants, healthy soil — even composting, by reusing your own yard waste. If it all seems daunting, start with a DIY planter for your balcony made of recycled wood.

Think vertical

Vertical gardens work well for smaller spaces, light-constrained homes or even just to cover an unsightly brickwork or concrete wall. They are convenient to set-up and easy to maintain. Modular systems work on hydroponics so they don’t need much care or maintenance. Alternatively, if you are looking for something simpler, creepers and hanging baskets are a very good option.

For more tips, log on to Purelife.ae

Box

Instant facelift

Katie Hilal of the regional landscape firm Terreverde shared her edit of this year’s pick-me-ups for your outdoors:

• Combine water and fire elements for instant drama.

• An outdoor bar, majlis or a spa treatment cabana is something you will never tire of.

• Fibre-optic lights in swimming pools, driveways, and seating areas is stylish and functional. Invest in LED backed outdoor furniture for a quick fix.

• Throw out the old and refurbish your hardscape with large span tiles for a luxe feel.

• Groups of the same plant will create high impact.

For more information, log on to Terraverde.ae

What I would invest in

• The portable mini kitchen from Boffi will go anywhere you go.

• Hammock is a good addition to even the smallest of the balconies.

• The eco-friendly donuts by Fiore Rosso are the ideal pool loungers.

• Outdoor lighting sculptures by Serralunga.

• Bamboo — low-maintenance green for maximum effect.