You’ve done all the preparation and your garden is good to be ‘glammed up’ all ready for you to sit back and relax and enjoy the summer

Courtyard, green oasis, large and luscious, small and secluded – whatever type of garden you have you’ll want to make it work for you and its place in your life.

A popular option is to create zones or spaces designed to suit a particular purpose and this can be achieved with thought out planning even in smaller gardens where two or three areas works well, perhaps create a larger focal zone with one or two smaller ones, it will largely depend on how you use your garden space.

Most of us want a relaxation area, somewhere to lie back perhaps on a lounger or even in a swing seat or hammock if there’s room and you’re likely to want an entertaining / dining area too. Perhaps you work from home and a garden room offers you somewhere to escape to or is it an ideal place for the kids to chill out?

Let’s sit back and relax and consider the choices – patio and / or decking are a good place to start, make space for both if you can and you’re creating zones without realising it. Seating is  a must, chairs and a table, anything from a cute stylish bistro set for a smaller space to a full on comfy garden sofa taking the indoors out and wooden table and chairs fit for a banquet. How about an egg chair or a padded bench if you need extra or occasional seating, you may find that once you’ve created your zones, the seating falls into place naturally. Need more relaxation and the ultimate chill zone? Soothe away the day in a hot tub.

Summer is the time to entertain al fresco and enjoy the fruits of your hard work with friends and family. Once you’ve decided on your seating go a step further and explore your dining options, do you like nothing better than the sizzle of a burger on the BBQ, like to mix up your toppings on a pizza oven or will only a full-on outdoor kitchen feed your need?

Garden rooms have increasingly become an extension of your home and not just for those who work from home. Always wanted to run your own business but not sure where you’d do it, they make the ideal space for a beauty salon or dog grooming parlour. They’re a great way to gain an extra room without the cost of moving or an extension. Channel your inner peace and indulge in some me time with a yoga studio, pop the kids in for a playroom or creative types will enjoy setting up their easel or instruments there.

One thing that’s pretty much a necessity in this country is some sort of shade or cover. Awnings and sails add a decorative touch and are available in a variety of styles and colours. If you’re after a more permanent fixture then pergolas and gazebos will add a stylish touch either to house your furniture or as a shelter.

If you’ve been coveting a beautiful hand-crafted bespoke oak building in your garden or adjoining your home, you’re not the only one! The Artisan Oak team work with clients to help you design your dream bespoke space. The company believe oak to be one of the most beautiful materials to use, with raw textures and uncompromisable strength. They also offer a landscaping service and incorporate materials such as glass, stone, brick and other wood, working along side sub-contractors for a hassle-free project. Visit artisan-oak.com

Looking for finishing touches to complete your masterpiece? A fire pit will help ward off any chills while lighting will allow you to enjoy your haven late into the night.

Using traditional techniques dating back 4,000 years and hand thrown on the wheel in Crete, these quality pots are fired at 1,150 degrees centigrade, guaranteeing quality and durability, ensuring they are frost proof to endure our winters. Order online at cretepots.com or visit the Crete Pots showroom displaying over 150 pots in the heart of Hampshire.

Metal Gates Ltd are manufacturers, fabricators and installers of quality metal gates, railings, garage doors, balustrades and staircases. The family business has over 30 years’ experience in the metalwork industry, they can guarantee quality craftsmanship and a professional service from planning to installation. Contact them on  01628 621974 for a free no obligation quote. More at metalgatesltd.com

Want to live more sustainably? The Festival of Sustainable Homes, May 17th and 18th at the National Self Build & Renovation Centre, Swindon SN5 8UB, offers advice on improving the energy efficiency of new build and existing homes. Exhibits, seminars, live demos and expert advice will all be on offer at the Good Energy sponsored event. Find out more at nsbrc.co.uk/whats-on/our-events/the-festival-of-sustainable-homes