A city-based removals firm has shifted enough belongings for people moving to and from Oxfordshire in the last year to fill 10 Olympic-sized swimming pools.

ISIS Removals and Storage packed, transported and unloaded a whopping 1.3million cubic feet of boxes for customers to new homes and workplaces – the equivalent of moving 593 large boxes each day.

Items checked off by the team include pianos, aquariums, antiques and model railway sets plus more conventional belongings such as wardrobes, curtains and furniture.

According to the company’s data, the average number of boxes moved per household was 110 – although homeowners placing items into long-storage to declutter their properties often required more.

David Niven, Removals Manager at ISIS Removals, said the industry has experienced one of its busiest calendar years on record.

“Moving home is one of life’s most stressful tasks,” said David. “And one of the biggest mistakes people can make is to take on the packing, loading, unloading and reorganising responsibilities themselves.

“It’s time-consuming and approximately one in four movers who take on the job themselves will damage at least one of their possessions in the process.

“Our team are experts at what they do – if there was a world championship for real-life Tetris, they’d win it! We pride ourselves on professionalism, efficiency and responding to help customers at the last minute during their moment of crisis.”

March proved to be the busiest spring month on record for David’s team.

It was prompted by increases to stamp duty which came into effect on April 1 and will see the average UK property valued at £290,000 cost an additional £2,500 in tax for families buying a second home.

The change meant movers scrambled to finalise purchases before the deadline, meaning it was all hands on deck for the ISIS Removals team.

David added: “March was hectic, but we expected that and planned accordingly so every job was completed on time.

“We even had capacity to take some last-minute calls from movers that had either been let down or simply didn’t have the time themselves to pack up and move all their belongings.

“Both of those scenarios happen more often than people would assume. In some extreme cases, people have been let down mid-job when by law they have only 24-hours to leave their old property.

“It’s all in the planning and preparation. Even during a busy period our team are in full control and will maintain the quality of service.”

Further information about ISIS Removals and Storage is available online via www.isisremovals.co.uk.

A whopping seven million UK homeowners plan to renovate their property in 2025, according to a new report published by insurance firm Aviva.

Its How We Live report released in February found one in four homeowners plan on investing £14,000 to enhance their living space with the most popular renovation plans including:

• Extending the layout of a property
• Creating a home office
• Upgrade an existing bathroom, or adding an ensuite

Besides encountering hidden costs, one of the biggest blockers for granting the go-ahead for a home renovation project is space and the potential lack of it while your home represents a building site.

What many families do not consider is how long-term storage can make life at home far easier by temporarily storing those precious but non-essential goods in a safe and secure environment so space in your property is maximised when it might feel like it’s at a premium.

In our latest blog, we consider the top five things all homeowners wish they knew before starting a home renovation project.

#1 – Utilise short and long-term storage facilities

For anyone who has lived in a property which has been renovated, they will be able to articulate the feeling of relief when their home was back in working order.

However big or small the job is, rushing work to regain your living space should never be the answer. It might feel like your property is cramped during renovation works, but it needn’t be with short or long-term storage solutions.

Making the most of external storage facilities unlocks the ability for a homeowner to streamline their living area. Strip it back to basics and make living more comfortable with this simple approach.

#2 – Categorise belongings into essential and non-essential items

Essential items: Ovens, fridges, beds.

Non-essential items: Small furniture, antiques and collectables, seasonal items.

Consider what you need and what you want. Items you need like the essentials listed above can stay – although depending on where you are renovating your property you might even choose to store some of your essential items.

Temporarily providing a new home to your non-essential items reduces clutter and will increase your living space.

#3 – Relocate your home office to an appropriate spot

More than 40 per cent of UK workers engage in remote work at least once as part of their working week.

It goes without saying juggling working from home while your property is being renovated can be a challenge. It only strengthens our belief that storing non-essential items temporarily helps to unlock new living space, which can be used to help you prioritise your day-to-day essentials.

#4 – Invest in a surveyor

Your home is likely to be the most expensive purchase you make in your lifetime.

Why risk encountering expensive hidden costs when this can be prevented by instructing a qualified chartered surveyor.

This will detect any potential defects to your property, and ensure all measurements are accurate to save time and money in the long run. At ISIS Removals, we’re well-connected in Oxfordshire and can recommend trusted tradesmen who can carry out such works professionally and efficiently.

#5 – Plan your renovating, logistically and financially!

On a final note – plan!

Make sure you have sufficient funds in place to cover all the above blockers and work out practical living arrangements while your property is being transformed.

Following the above steps is a good starting point in achieving this.

If you’re planning a home renovation in 2025 and would benefit from ISIS Removals’ short and long-term storage provisions, drop our friendly team a call today via 01865 770227 or email info@isisremovals.co.uk and a member of our team will get back to you.

The Cotswolds – the jewel in the crown of the British countryside, home to just over 90,000 people. And it’s right on our doorstep here in Oxfordshire!

Spanning the length of our county’s western border with Warwickshire and Gloucestershire, the Cotswolds is world-famous for its rolling hills, cosy country pubs and picturesque honeystone cottages.

It’s no surprise therefore that a-list celebrities David and Victoria Beckham, Ellen DeGeneres and Hugh Grant have chosen to call the Cotswolds home.

An estimated 38 million tourists visit the Cotswolds each year, with many dreaming of one day moving to the area.

But moving to such remote locations can present its challenges – a typical front door of a home in the Cotswolds was not designed to accommodate moving a four-seater sofa, for example!

It makes using a trusted removals firm like ISIS Removals and Storage all the more important.

In our latest blog, we explore the very best of the Cotswolds including hidden spots within Oxfordshire’s border and locations which sit on the fringe of our county.

Chipping Norton

With just over 6,000 residents, Chipping Norton is one of the Cotswolds’ largest towns.

It’s home to two primary schools, a secondary school and preschools plus a leisure centre, outdoor swimming pool which opens during warmer months and five supermarkets.

Unlike other Cotswolds locations, Chipping Norton has everything you should need on your doorstep and is a 45-minute drive from Oxford city centre. The one void is a train station – although Charlbury operates regular 70-minute services into London Paddington.

‘Chippy’ – as it’s known by locals – has hit the headlines recently through the hit Amazon Prime series Clarkson’s Farm which is filmed on location at Jeremy Clarkson’s farm in nearby Chadlington.

The Rissingtons

Made up of Great Rissington, Upper Rissington and Little Rissington and Wyck Rissington, the Rissingtons sit across the border in Gloucestershire near the picturesque Bourton-on-the-Water.

If you’re looking for the quiet country lifestyle, Wyck, Great and Little Rissington are all delightful villages and even by the Cotswolds standards are small and built on community spirit.

A car is essential here, and many properties are tucked away down tight country roads.

In exchange, residents enjoy the slower lifestyle – and you’ll rarely come across tourists unless it’s on a local trail or in The Lamb, a typical Cotswold pub in the heart of Great Rissington.

Burford

Described as the Gateway to the Cotswolds, Burford is another of the Cotswolds’ larger towns with the benefit of all the conveniences a person could wish for on their doorstep.

Its high street is perhaps the most photographed location in the Cotswolds with scores of independent shops, pubs and cafes making for a pleasant day out.

While the centre of town can get busy, particularly during weekends and the holidays, Burford’s side roads sit very much away from the hustle and bustle with a mix of semi-detached and luxury detached properties.

Take our word for it, a visit to the Cotswold Cheese Company and the Cotswolds Arms are a must!

Lechlade

Paddleboards, boats and gentle strolls in all seasons – that’s Lechlade in a nutshell.

The town sits on the banks of the River Thames and is well-known for its river-based pursuits including boating, kayaking, fishing and birdwatching.

For locals, Lechlade has a primary school, a small supermarket and independent store selling locally produced fruit, vegetables and meat. Anyone considering a move here must get to know the town better with a visit to the incredible Lakes by Yoo – a luxury 850-acre estate offering private holidays to couples and families.

A fun fact for you, The Riverside pub featured in the opening sequence of the London 2012 Olympics at the start of the legendary Opening Ceremony!

The Tews

Great and Little Tew have established themselves as magnets for those looking to up sticks and complete a dream move to the Cotswolds.

Much like the Rissingtons, you’ll find far fewer tourists here as both villages are really tucked away from the primary transport links.

The Tews have most features of a typical Cotswold village, including a local pub and farm shop. What sets the Tews apart from other locations is its proximity to Soho Farmhouse – a luxury members’ club set in 100 acres of Cotswold countryside including bedrooms, a pool, spa and gym.

Contact our team today!

If a move to the Cotswolds is on your agenda for 2025, drop our friendly team a message today and see how our professionals can facilitate a smooth, stress-free, move to your dream destination.

Phone: 01865 770227

Email: info@isisremovals.co.uk

In the UK, approximately a third of property transactions are prompted by the seller’s choice to downsize.

Downsizing has its benefits, particularly in the present economic climate.

A smaller home means lower costs across the board – maintenance, utility bills, council tax, buildings insurance and the option to save on interest by decreasing your mortgage term.

But switching from a four-bed to a three-bed doesn’t pass without its challenges, the obvious one being that a smaller home means space to store household goods and personal possessions is at a premium.

Whatever the motive behind a person’s decision to downsize, the option to take advantage of long-term storage solutions can often be the difference between a smooth, stress-free, move and one which perhaps creates more problems than it solves.

Despite this, it’s not a solution every person considers.

At ISIS Removals, our best-in-class long storage facilities make storing your essential belongings and items a safe and straight forward process.

Key considerations

Like the practicalities of using long-term storage, the benefits of investing in a space to hold your belongings however big or small can be out of sight, out of mind.

It’s important to stress not everyone requires long storage.

But downsizing your property can expose just how much clutter (most of which will still hold some sentimental or financial value) you have built up over the years. Here’s how long storage can help:

• A permanent home for precious items

We all have them – family albums which haven’t been touched for years and childhood possessions we just can’t let go of. They deserve a place in your life, but perhaps not your home – especially if you’re downsizing.

• Simplify your move

When moving home, flexibility is often all a person needs at a time where most outcomes are out of your control. Having access to a long storage facility will without question make logistics that bit easier when it comes to moving day.

• Maximise your living space

So many of our possessions aren’t required in all seasons – summer furniture, festive decorations and equipment for seasonal hobbies, for example. Why let them take up space in your home when you can plan a seasonal rotation of items you will and won’t require?

• Retain key assets

You don’t have to think small when considering long storage. Units are extra-dry and monitored by CCTV 24/7 meaning larger items like sofas and tables can be kept for future sale or even retained if you’re still searching for your new home.

Using long term storage

In a nutshell, storage helps you take back control of the space which has been lost to everyday clutter.

There are considerations such as making the most of your loft space and using shelves and smartly designed furniture to enhance your property’s storage capacity. But, ultimately, these are all likely to be temporary fixes.

At ISIS Removals, we’re home to a team of moving and storage experts who take the stress out of the logistics involved in any property or commercial move. Our storage units are security patrolled, extra-dry and purpose built to keep everything from furniture to fine art in perfect condition.

Storage options include:

• Domestic storage
• Commercial archive storage
• Metal containers for trade self-storage
• A facility to store large loose items

Do you need a hand downsizing or making the most of the space in your current home? Drop our friendly team a message today to see how we can help.

Call: 01865 770227

Email: info@isisremovals.co.uk

We all know Christmas is when Oxfordshire is at its very best.

The beautiful countryside is transformed by layers of thick frost into a magical wonderland, and local pubs and restaurants serve up warming delights to help you thaw out after a country walk.

Whether you’re new to the county or just looking for somewhere to explore, we’ve rounded up some of our favourite things to do in Oxfordshire at Christmas time, to fill you up with festive cheer ahead of the big day.

Discover Blenheim Illuminated Christmas Lights Trail

As darkness falls the immense grounds of Blenheim Palace are lit up with hundreds of thousands of twinkling Christmas lights. Explore the stunning show and enjoy food and drink at the pop-up Christmas market.

This really is a magical evening out to enjoy with family and friends. Children in particular will be entranced by all the stunning displays. Some of our team go along to this every year, and it’s always a highlight of the festive season.

Visit a Christmas tree farm

Choosing your very own beautiful real tree is one of the most magical parts of Christmas.

The scent of the tree drifting through your home brings the season to life and is often considered one of the very best parts of this time of year.

One of our favourite places to go to choose a tree is The Tree Barn in Watlington. This small, family-run business supplies fantastic Christmas trees and has even won the British Christmas Tree Growers Association competition for the best tree three times. They have provided trees to some of the most illustrious homes in the land, including the one outside 10 Downing Street, so you know the quality is second to none!

He’s behind you!

Christmas isn’t Christmas without a trip to the panto! The Oxford Playhouse is putting on Sleeping Beauty this year, and we can’t wait to see this classic tale brought to life with more jokes and jollity than ever before.

This really is festive fun for all the family, and is likely to prove a seasonal highlight to all the younger members of the audience.

Explore Oxford Christmas market

Oxford Christmas market is back for 2024 with seasonal food, lots of gifts and entertainment for you to enjoy. This is a great place for a spot of last minute Christmas shopping interspersed with plenty of mulled wine and mince pies!

This year’s market takes place on Broad Street from 23^rd November – 5^th January.

Enjoy some festive music

In Oxford, we’re lucky enough to have some fantastic choirs, many of them based in and around the university colleges. Enjoy some truly top notch caroling at one of their fantastic festive concerts, but be aware that tickets often sell out fast so don’t forget to book early!

We hope you enjoy all the wonderful festive delights on offer in Oxfordshire and have a fantastic time getting into the festive spirit!

A recent survey of 1,000 home buyers found moving house is considered the most stressful task in life – ranking higher than having a child and even going through a divorce.

The poll by financial services firm Legal and General discovered almost half (47 per cent) of people experienced increased levels of stress due to moving and over a third (37 per cent) said packing and relocating items was the most dreaded task of a house move.

Most aspects of a stress-free relocation are in the hands of operators where progress sits outside of your control. Where possible, investing in professional, trusted and reliable firms to assist with your move is the key to a smooth process and avoiding a nightmare move.

One of our recent clients, Clare, found this out the hard way when she was let down by her removals team less than 48 hours before she legally had to leave the home she was departing.

With less a day’s notice, ISIS Removals saved the day. Here is Clare’s story.

The problem

Clare had planned her move to her dream property in Oxfordshire well in advance.

After completing a home review, Clare’s removals team allocated two days to boxing her belongings with all items scheduled to be transported on day three when Clare was required to vacate her former home.

It wasn’t long until problems started to arise.

“The team I had booked arrived late and left early on day one,” said Clare. “I had a real sinking feeling seeing how much work still had to be done.

“Only the kitchen had been packed, and there seemed to be an impossible amount of work to complete on the final day I had access to the house before I had to leave.”

Clare’s concerns were confirmed when less than 48 hours before she had to vacate the property, her removals team pulled out of the job, turning this situation into a nightmare move for Clare.

“I felt horrendous, and didn’t sleep a wink,” said Clare. “Because of the time they pulled out, I effectively had 36 hours to secure a removals company to complete the job.

“No one from my initial calls could help, I was frantic.”

How we saved the day

Clare contacted ISIS Removals at 9am on Wednesday morning.

Even with no time for a site visit, a team of removals specialists were at her front door within two hours with a full crew and trucks. The property Clare was leaving was a six bedroom, 4000 cubic foot house, which was a big move for the team to complete in very limited time.

“ISIS Removals totally saved the day,” said Clare. “The time frame they had to work with was so incredibly tight, but they got the job done.

“The team were with me before I knew it and were professional throughout. It put me at ease after a very stressful 24 hours where aspects of my home move which were out of my control went seriously wrong. They even dismantled and reassembled my furniture, which was a huge bonus!

“I couldn’t recommend ISIS Removals enough – they really saved the day and if they can solve the issues I faced they’re capable of everything.”

Quality service

Customer service and satisfaction is our number one priority at ISIS Removals.

And having a friendly and professional team to pack up and move your belongings in an efficient, professional and experienced manner is key to taking the stress out of a home move.

David Niven, Manager of ISIS Removals and Storage, said: “Clare’s story just goes to show how important it is to use a reputable and professional removals company. Opting for the cheapest option to move all your worldly possessions is not a good idea.

“This was a big job, but the team really pulled together and got it all done at short notice. We advise homeowners to always check the quality of the service they’ll be getting before committing to a company.”

If you’re interested in working with a removals company who take care of clients and provide service with a smile, contact us today to find out more about how we can help you.

We’re pleased to announce a new partnership with Oxford-based junior football team, the Summertown Stars Stingrays!

Summertown Stars run over 60 football teams for boys and girls in every age group, from U6s upwards. It’s the county’s largest youth football club and as a company that has long been passionate about community engagement, this is the perfect partnership for us.

As part of our agreement, the U11s team has received new training and playing kits, embossed with our ISIS logo.

Peter Jamieson, Vice Chair at Summertown Stars, was pleased to welcome the ISIS Removals and Storage team onboard as partners.

“It can be too easy to focus on results as being the key driver in what makes sport and wider participation special to people,” said Peter. “In reality, how football brings people together to learn new skills and make new connections is what we love.

“We’re always grateful when any Oxfordshire business recognises this, and we’re pleased to have ISIS Removals onboard as a partner this season. Summertown Stars is a huge operation with a proud history, and we’re continually looking out for new members so encourage any football-mad youngsters based locally to come along.”

David Niven, Manager of ISIS Removals and Storage, is thrilled with this new partnership. He said: “We’re privileged to be in a position to give back to our community, and love the new look of Summertown Stars Stingrays.

“Having been part of the Oxford community for such a long time, this partnership felt like a very natural fit for us. We’re proud to be partnering with the Stingrays and wish them every success this season.”

The squad’s players were happy with their shirts too, and one team member, Thomas, aged 11, said: “I love my new shirt – it looks really cool! I’m proud to be a Stingray and am really enjoying the season so far.”

If you’ve got a young football enthusiast on your hands who might be interested in joining Summertown Stars, email enquiries@summertownstars.org where you will be directed to the right age group and team.

At ISIS, we’re Oxfordshire through and through, which is why we’re all so excited about this new partnership. If you’re planning a move, to Oxfordshire or beyond, then contact us today to find out more about the fantastic range of services we provide.

Over 650,000 people call Oxfordshire home.

Most are lifetime residents, others have upped sticks from the capital and some choose to stay put after graduating from our county’s world-famous university.

With 5,800 property transactions taking place in the last 12 months, finding that perfect autumnal day out will be on the agenda of families familiar and new to Oxfordshire’s scenic surroundings.

At ISIS Removals & Storage, we’re Oxfordshire through and through. So, we’ve rounded up a few of the best places locally where people of all ages can enjoy the autumn colour.

Whether you’re new to the area, an old hand looking for somewhere to discover, or considering a move to Oxfordshire, read on to discover some of our county’s best autumn beauty spots.

Greys Court Estate

This stunning National Trust property near Henley-on-Thames is a great day out for all the family. Originally built in the 14^th century, the house has some fantastic treasures on display, but this time of year, it’s the grounds that really stand out. Nestled against the Chiltern hills, Greys Court offers panoramic views across the countryside as it slowly turns yellow, orange and red.

After a brisk walk round the beautiful grounds and woodlands of the estate, you’ll be more than ready for a delicious cream tea in the café. Dogs are welcome at the property, and they often host special activities for children so if you’re planning a half term visit, these are worth looking out for.

Harcourt Arboretum

With over 130 acres of woodland, Harcourt Arboretum is a fantastic place to make the most of autumn. It can be very popular on sunny weekends, so we recommend booking tickets in advance to avoid disappointment.

The Arboretum is home to lots of interesting species of rare and endangered trees, so it’s a wonderful place to explore for those with an interest in environmentalism and sustainability.

Blenheim Palace

Blenheim is well worth a visit all year round, but autumn there holds a special place in our hearts. Over half term, they host a fantastic Halloween trail brimming with pumpkins and thrilling moments. It’s fantastic fun for both children and adults, and a great way to celebrate spooky season.

The woodlands around Blenheim are particularly beautiful on a cold autumn morning with leaves crunching underfoot and raining down from above. If you get too chilly, they’ve got fantastic cafes and restaurants where you can warm up over something pumpkin spiced.

At ISIS, we think there are a lot of special things about Oxfordshire, but the amazing autumn colour, natural scenery and abundance of fantastic things to do right on the doorstep are definitely some of the very best.

Don’t just take our word for it though – why not come and get to know Oxfordshire for yourself? If you’re planning a move to Oxfordshire, contact us today to get started.

You can call us on 01865 770227 or click for a quote.

At Oxfordshire removals company ISIS Removals & Storage, we’re passionate about providing a fantastic service to our clients, and that starts with employing a team of removals experts who love what they do and share our thirst for creating top notch customer experiences. One such removals expert is Jay, who has been part of the team for eight years. Though new to the removals industry when he started with ISIS, he quickly learned the ropes and became one of our most valuable team members.

Keep reading to discover more about Jay’s time with ISIS and why he’s passionate about removals.

Rewarding environment

Jay joined the team in 2016 after being recommended the job by a friend. Having never worked in removals before, Jay worked closely with his colleagues to understand the ins and out of what it takes to make a move successful.

Thanks to the combination of on the job learning and a supportive team, Jay quickly felt at home in his role and is now responsible for delivering seamless moves for our clients all over the UK.

“I love working for ISIS – it’s the best job I’ve ever had,” said Jay. “Getting to work with great colleagues  day in, day out, is brilliant. It makes a real difference to how we work – the happy team atmosphere is a key part of what allows us to serve our clients so well.”

Jay not only works on residential moves, in which he and the team quickly and efficiently move individuals and families, but he also helps plan and execute large-scale office moves for corporate clients.

“There are so many things I love about working in removals, especially having the opportunity to work at some amazing houses and businesses. You never know what you’re going to find when you go along to pack up a house or business.

“One particularly memorable move for me was when we turned up to a house only to discover multiple F1 cars in the garage! It turned out the house belonged to F1 superstar Frank Williams, who I even got to meet and who I have long admired, as I’m a total petrol head.”

 Removals experts: a team you can rely on

Not every move is straightforward. At times, clients need to have heavy or awkward objects moved into challenging spaces, either up rickety stairs or through narrow passages.

In instances such as this, it’s hugely important to have a removals company in place who are used to working with each other round the clock.

“My colleagues at ISIS are a team I can rely on,” Jay explained. “We’re always looking out for each other and we’re experienced in communicating as a team, seeing us through even tricky moves with no problem.”

 Adventures abroad

As well as UK moves, ISIS can also assist with moves to Europe and beyond thanks to our network of removals experts. Sometimes though, the easiest and most cost effective way of moving someone is simply to drive the van ourselves.

Jay reminisced: “The most memorable trip I ever got to go on was when a client was moving away from the UK, and I had the chance to drive a removals van all the way across France to sunny Montpellier. That was a very special experience.”

“I can honestly say that the whole ISIS team take a huge amount of pride in what we do and in providing every single customer with fantastic service,” Jay added.

“It’s particularly special when clients choose to come back to us move after move, or recommend us to friends, because that’s how we know we’ve done a great job and left a lasting positive impression.”

If you’re looking to move and would like to work with an Oxfordshire removals company who provide a fantastic customer experience, take pride in our work and know Oxfordshire like the backs of our hands, then give the ISIS team a call today and find out more about how our removals experts can help you.

Creating an outdoor kitchen or sitting room has become immensely popular in recent years, and it’s easy to see why. Post-pandemic, we’re all more grateful than ever for our outdoor spaces, and want to make the most of every moment we can spend in them.

A recent study has found that a beautiful garden can add up to 20% to the value of your property, so if you’re thinking of moving soon, investing in your garden ahead of time is likely to pay dividends.

Below, we explore how to set about designing the perfect outdoor sitting room to enjoy all year round.

Create a sense of flow

Most people choose to position their outdoor sitting room near to their house, which means it’s important to think about creating a feeling of continuity between your indoor and outdoor spaces.

The easiest way to do this is through keeping your colour palette consistent. If the indoor room from which you exit is decorated in shades of pink, for example, be sure to incorporate some pink into your new outdoor space, through your choice of cushions or throws.

Similarly, make sure the outdoor sitting room flows into the rest of your garden through incorporating similar shades of green, and mirroring the flowers from your nearest borders in the colours and textures you choose.

Design an all-weather space

There’s nothing more frustrating than creating a beautiful space which can only be used on a handful of days in any given year. Think carefully about the positioning of your outdoor sitting room to maximise on the shelter provided by existing elements in your garden, such as established trees which will offer shade on hot days, or external walls which can shelter you from the wind.

For protection from rain, consider a pergola or other type of roofed area. Climbing plants such as clematis and roses will quickly make this feel like a natural extension of your garden.

If your garden is overlooked by the neighbours, adding this kind of cover will also give you some much-needed privacy.

Think about lighting

Are you dreaming of twinkling fairy lights artfully hung along shepherd’s crooks? Or do you want to be lit by the soft flicker of flames from your new fire pit? Either way, it’s important to think about lighting when you’re designing your space.

While long summer evenings may not need much in the way of additional lighting, you’ll be pleased to have it when those first warm spring days entice you into the garden, or when you’re enjoying the crisp, cooler nights of autumn.

Also consider the natural light and how it will move across the space. Do you want to start your days with breakfast outside in the sunshine? Then make sure the eastern sky is as visible as possible so you can enjoy the sunrise and early morning warmth in your outdoor sitting room.

Make it a feast for all the senses

When planning a garden, it can be tempting to focus only on how it will look without paying much attention to the other senses. However, it’s important not to do this with your outside sitting room. This is your own personal Eden, which means it needs to be a feast for all your senses, not just your eyes.

Think about creating a glorious scent palate. Highly scented roses sit well with plants such as Nemesia ‘Wisley Vanilla,’ which has a strong vanilla scent. Also consider tubs of highly aromatic herbs such as rosemary, lemon balm or mint, which have stunning flowers in summertime as well as being fantastic for bees and other pollinators.

Finally, be sure to make comfort a priority at every stage. Never buy furniture without first testing it out yourself to make sure it feels as you want it to. Are you looking to lounge, or to sit? Are you going to eat meals with friends in this space, or is it just for you? These thoughts can shape the style of furniture you choose, and the addition of pillows, throws and rugs will make the space look extra welcoming.