Struggling to keep cool in your garden this summer?
After weeks of glorious sunshine and soaring temperatures, many of us have been spending more time in our gardens than ever before. From family BBQs and al fresco dining to...
News
UK weather hits record temperatures - is your garden ready?
This week, the UK has experienced some of the hottest temperatures on record, with many people finding it increasingly difficult to enjoy their outdoor spaces during periods of extreme heat....
Boost your property value with bespoke outdoor living
When it comes to adding value to your property, most people think of kitchen renovations or loft conversions. But there is another, often overlooked, opportunity right outside your door. A...
Record rainfall, empty gardens and unused terraces, it’s time to rethink outdoor living.
This has been one of the wettest starts to 2026 in recent years. Day after day of persistent rainfall has left gardens saturated and outdoor seating areas empty. But we...
How to create a winter-proof outdoor space: Pergolas, awnings and canopies for autumn entertaining and Christmas gatherings
The nights may be drawing in and the temperatures dropping, but that doesn’t mean outdoor living has to end when summer does. Across London, Cambridgeshire, Hertfordshire and the South East,...
Do fixed canopies and verandas need planning permission in England? Glass vs polycarbonate roofs for winter
Fixed canopies and verandas are one of the fastest-growing outdoor living solutions in the UK. Whether you want a glass roof veranda for the garden or a covered canopy for...
Do awnings need planning permission in England? Rules for homes, shopfronts & conservation areas
Patio awnings are one of the most popular ways to bring indoor comfort into the garden. For homeowners, they provide shade in summer and shelter in autumn showers. For cafés,...
Pavement licences in England are now permanent, what hospitality venues need to know
In recent years, outdoor dining has become a lifeline for hospitality. Temporary pavement licence schemes introduced during the pandemic allowed pubs, cafés, and restaurants to expand onto pavements and forecourts....
How wind-safe are giant umbrellas? The best options for coastal and city locations
Outdoor spaces are vital for pubs, restaurants, and hotels, especially during the colder months when covered seating can make all the difference. Among the most popular solutions are giant umbrellas,...
Can I use a patio awning in rain and UK winter winds? Realistic wind limits explained
Patio awnings are a brilliant way to extend your living space outdoors, creating shade in summer and shelter in autumn showers. But one of the most common questions we hear...
Can I enclose a bioclimatic pergola for winter? Roller screens vs glass explained
At Outside Structures, we know the biggest question for homeowners and hospitality venues is simple: “Can I actually use my bioclimatic pergola in winter?” The answer is yes, and with...
Do I need planning permission for a Louvred/Bioclimatic Pergola in England? Your complete guide
At Outside Structures, we’ve seen a huge rise in demand for louvred or “bioclimatic” pergolas across the South of England. These sleek aluminium structures, with their adjustable roof slats, are...
Why 2025 is the year of sculptural outdoor living: Pergolas that are garden art
This year, Britain’s most beautiful gardens, from manicured Georgian townhouses in Bath to coastal retreats in Cornwall, are embracing a new outdoor living statement: the sculptural pergola. Once purely practical,...
Outdoor living trends: The rise of pergolas and verandas in modern homes
In recent years, outdoor living has seen a remarkable surge in popularity, with more homeowners investing in functional and stylish garden structures to enhance their outdoor spaces. Pergolas and verandas...
Sustainable outdoor living: How a veranda or pergola can support an eco-friendly lifestyle
In an age where sustainability is at the forefront of modern living, homeowners are increasingly seeking ways to make their outdoor spaces more environmentally friendly. Creating a sustainable garden is...
Create the perfect summer garden for your family life
As the days grow longer and the sun shines brighter, families naturally gravitate towards their gardens, turning them into hubs for relaxation, play, and social gatherings. A well-designed outdoor space...
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