Set the Scene for a Summer Well-Lived

Summer has its own rhythm, a slower, golden pace that invites us to move life outdoors. With just a few thoughtful choices, a garden, terrace, or balcony can transform into an extension of your home’s elegance. This is not about chasing trends, but about creating a setting where every moment feels considered: unhurried mornings with coffee in hand, sunlit lunches that stretch into the afternoons, and evenings that linger well past sunset.

At The Mayfair Hall, I see the outdoor season as an opportunity to live beautifully under open skies. The right pieces not only enhance comfort but also weave together the aesthetics of indoors and out. From Ojai-inspired dining to the perfect poolside chaise, here’s how to create your own seasonal haven.

The Art of Poolside Living

I have always believed that a poolside chair should do more than look appealing, it should invite you to stay. Choose one that is gracefully proportioned, beautifully made, and impossibly comfortable. I like to pair a timeless chaise with a petite side table, just large enough for the essentials: a novel, and a glass of water with a sprig of mint for freshness.

For a polished yet relaxed feel, consider natural fabrics for cushions and a muted colour palette from gentle greens to creamy neutrals. These subtle choices create an atmosphere that feels both refined and serene.

An Invitation to Linger Outdoors

Summer afternoons are best spent in surroundings as beautiful as they are comfortable. Deep, enveloping lounge chairs and sofas, layered with plump cushions, create a space where conversation flows easily and time slows. Arrange seating to encourage gathering, perhaps in a circular layout that draws everyone in.

A few well-chosen details will elevate the scene: knit throws for cooler evenings, a low coffee table for serving chilled drinks, and potted greenery to soften the edges such as with lavender, rosemary, or olive trees. Even the smallest patio can take on the feel of a private retreat when curated with intention

Bringing It All Together

The beauty of an outdoor seasonal setting lies in its flexibility. It can be grand or simple, but it should always feel like yours. Layer textures, play with scale, and choose pieces that invite use, not just admiration. A well-considered outdoor space blurs the line between inside and out, allowing you to live fully in both.

As design icon David Hicks once said, “The best rooms have something to say about the people who live in them.” The same is true for outdoor spaces, they should reflect your way of life, your pace, and your pleasures.

Reminders:

• Refresh outdoor cushions and clean fabrics before the season ends

• Arrange furniture to follow the light and shade throughout the day

• Keep citronella candles or discreet bug-repelling plants at hand for evenings outdoors

I Am Grateful for Today:

1. The scent of lavender in the warm afternoon air

2. The sound of water trickling from a garden fountain

3. The sounds of kids enjoying life's simple pleasures