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From long al fresco lunches to impromptu evening soirees in front of the fire pit, making the most of our gardens is one of the joys of the season. Outdoor living spaces are one of the most loved areas of our homes. Which is why – with impeccable timing – high-street favourite Argos has unveiled its Outdoor Living Report to share the biggest gardening trends of 2026 and help you turn your space into the place to be this summer.
Whatever the size of your outdoor space, Argos has an array of design ideas and recognisable brands to help create a stylish area. Whether that’s making a relaxing outdoor dining area or updating your space with bright fabrics and new lights, this time of year is an ideal opportunity to get set for summer socialising.
Lounge about
According to the Argos Outdoor Living Report, 45 per cent of us agree that our gardens should work as hard as any room in the house. Many of us are taking the same discerning approach to decorating our outdoor space as we would with an indoor area. That’s why solid pieces of furniture that encourage relaxation are a must.
Curate an assortment of soft accessories too, such as showerproof cushions and outdoor rugs, for a layered look. Or, add interest to otherwise unoccupied corners with potted plants and stylish storage.
Enjoy al fresco feasts
From long, lazy lunches to casual evening get-togethers, eating out in the open air is one of the simple joys of summer. According to the report, 34 per cent of us have plans to adopt an outdoor dining zone with tables, chairs and dedicated cooking areas.
Whip up a feast with a barbecue grill or pizza oven, using handmade stoneware plates and linen napkins in raffia shades to set the outdoor scene. From rustic finishes to practical pieces, discover the garden and DIY collections for ideas that will suit all styles and budgets.
Create cosy corners
If your outdoor space is limited, plentiful options are still available to maximise a small garden or balcony area. The collections at Argos are filled with multifunctional furniture and stylish outdoor lighting to add instant impact.
Create a small herb garden by mounting planters, or fill the space with joyous colour courtesy of flowering perennials. Add in layered lighting to gently define your zones, and add extra sparkle as the sun sets. Or, consider bringing in glass and reflective surfaces to create the illusion of space.
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Discover ways to embrace wellness
Gardening, growing and the very nature of being outside can positively impact our mental and emotional wellbeing. So, it’s little wonder many of us are feeling compelled to make our private outdoor spaces our own sanctuaries of wellness in a bid to help us slow down.
Options include adding home gym equipment or dedicated outdoor areas for movement like stretching and yoga. Meanwhile, you could create meditative spaces with gently swaying egg chairs and soothing water features, or even spa-like areas with saunas and hot tubs.
The wide selection of furniture and accessories at Argos offers something for gardens big and small. All you need to do is bring a good book and forget the world.
