We Brits get understandably excited when spring’s first rays break through – those long grey winters can feel never-ending! I’ve certainly spent a fair few weekends in the garden lately, sweeping away the debris of winter and getting our outdoor space ready for that first glass of rosé in the sun.
During the warmer months, I like to treat the garden as an extension of our living area. I love being outdoors, soaking up as much natural daylight as possible. And since summer evenings (and days!) can still feel a little cool, I like to layer up the space to keep it cosy and inviting.
Here’s how to create a beautiful, tactile outdoor living space The Small Home way.
WARNING: your guests may never want to leave!
1. Layer with Sheepskin Rugs
Just like indoors, I use sheepskin rugs to add warmth and texture to garden sofas and chairs. Thanks to their natural temperature-regulating properties, sheepskin works brilliantly – warm when it’s cool out, and breathable on hot days.
Our Double Sheepskin Rugs are ideal for draping across the back of a three-seater sofa, adding both comfort and protection from spills or marks.
A Large Sheepskin Rug transforms an armchair into a sumptuous outdoor lounging spot — perfect for curling up with a book or a glass of something cold.
2. Scatter Cushions for Comfort
Cushions instantly make an outdoor space feel lived-in and relaxed. I like to mix different textures and sizes across seating. Our sheepskin cushions add a tactile softness and feel especially indulgent when layered with linen or canvas covers.
Pair with candles, lanterns, and little pots of succulents or herbs on your coffee or side tables for a laid-back, summery feel.
3. Add Sheepskin Rugs or Seat Pads to Dining Chairs
Long alfresco lunches deserve comfortable seating. As much as I love the look of metal or wooden outdoor dining chairs, they’re not always the comfiest. That’s where our sheepskin seat pads come in.
Depending on the size of your chairs, I recommend either draping a sheepskin rug or using our round sheepskin seat pads.
In this example below, the chairs are really generous in size, so I’ve actually used our Large Sheepskin Rugs.
On the smaller metal chair below, our sheepskin seat pads fit perfectly.
These lightweight, round pads add softness, warmth, and style to your outdoor dining setup. They're easy to store and instantly elevate the look and feel of your space — while encouraging everyone to linger just a little longer.
4. Style Your Bench with a Sheepskin Bench Seat Pad
Benches are brilliant for squeezing in a few extra guests, and with the right soft furnishings, they can be just as inviting as your favourite indoor spot. Our woven sheepskin bench seat pads are a new favourite — made from off-cuts from our slipper production, they’re a more sustainable option and incredibly comfortable.
These bench pads are easily rolled up and stored when not in use, but honestly? They look so beautiful you may never want to take them off.
Whether it’s a morning coffee or a glass of rosé at dusk, a few sheepskin touches can turn your garden into the most comforting room in the house — even if it’s not technically indoors.
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