A summerhouse in your garden can be used as your very own special space. It can be transformed into a studio for writing, painting or other crafting activities, or can simply become a space for you to relax in and enjoy your leisure time. On sunny days, it also provides welcome shade from the midday heat. If you want to go for a country-style summerhouse, choose a style with a tiled roof, windows with small panes and details such as a weathervane or window boxes. Choose a calming palette of neutral and pastel shades, and colour wash timber cladding with pale leafy greens. When it comes to furniture, opt for wicker styles like Lloyd Loom painted in sherbet shades. A folding table is a good idea, as it can be moved easily into the garden and back again, and director's chairs work well for the same reason. Things don't have to be perfect and pristine - junk shop and vintage finds work perfectly well. Sheer curtains will let in the light, or alternatively try retro floral blinds to shield the interior from the sun. For a real touch of indulgence, a daybed dressed with pretty cushions will create the perfect spot for a nap after an alfresco lunch. Plant windowboxes and tubs with scented flowers and herbs, and add a jam jar of blooms and foliage from the garden to your table or desk area.

Create the perfect retreat

Tucked away at the bottom of the garden, a summerhouse provides a picturesque focal point and shelter from the midday sun. This octagonal room has small-paned windows, a tiled roof and weathervane, creating the perfect country look.

Include mix and match furniture

Give a summerhouse a relaxed look with a mix of painted and natural wicker garden furniture. Junk-shop finds, such as a folding tray table and occasional table, look chic when repainted in a subtle shade.

Contrast light and dark

Include a daybed in your summerhouse and on fine days it can be brought outside. For a modern-country look, opt for eastern-influenced furniture in a dark finish as a complete contrast to the classic white-painted timber cladding.

Welcoming window

Decorate the exterior of your summerhouse in a fetching blue, and for a cottage-style effect, finish with a retro floral blind and a windowbox of miniature red roses and rosemary to scent the air.

Have a summer party

Make the most of a summerhouse as a party venue. Dress it up with bunting, cover an outdoor table with fun candy stripes, and provide seating within in case the weather turns.

Make space to dine

Provide a summerhouse with a decked area and you’ve the perfect spot for lazy summer lunches. A mix of striped and floral fabrics and folding directors’ chairs dress up the typical English clubhouse look.