In fact, it seems to turn people into raging DIY fanatics. All of those jobs that have sat dormant during the winter months suddenly carry great appeal. Tool boxes are dusted off, proudly carried by men dressed for the occasion (cue shorts and obligatory muscle vest).
The prospect of 'outdoor living' makes the garden an exciting challenge. But, is it a case of a quick tidy up or are we talking a whole garden redesign?
Here are a few places to start:
1) Quick wins
Simply getting the paint out can achieve a certain wow factor on its own. And with some amazing shades of grey and blue hitting the airwaves, a garden fence or decking area can be completely transformed in no time. Similarly, garden furniture can benefit when there's a revamp afoot. A whole new look can be achieved with a lick of paint and be finished to perfection with some simple accessories; wind-lights, pretty candles, co-ordinating cushions and beautiful napkins to name just a few.
2) Get green fingered
Sprucing up the garden also plays into the hands of those wanting to achieve a refreshed look. It could be a great time to create that longed-for vegetable patch or even just a small herb garden. The sense of achievement when you actually deliver home produce to the table is well worth it. But, if this is a step too far, then you can simply add some new plants, create sections with over-sized mediterranean-style pots or add a touch of elegance with herb-inspired hanging baskets.
3) Add more space
For the more enthusiastic among us, there's always the option to add a summer house to the landscape. With an abundance of choice across style, size and shape, there's bound to be one for your garden. What better way to spend a summer evening than sitting on your very own summer house verandah, sipping an ice cold something?
4) Light it up
Then there's the lighting - another great addition to any outdoor space that can create the most magical backdrop for alfresco dining. With your DIY hat on, you can go crazy with the colours, the twinkling and the location to make sure that you create a range of stunning effects to highlight the best bits of your new found garden.
5) Don't forget maintenance
When you've finished having fun and being creative, you can add clearing the gutters, washing the windows, mowing the lawn and jet washing the patio to your summer DIY radar. It's all in the name of owning and maintaining your own home after all.
The good news is that by time the autumn is upon us, those indoor DIY jobs will still be waiting. So don't quash the momentum and pack up the tool kit. Instead, enjoy the indoors safe in the knowledge that your garden looks fantastic.
