Forever Autumn
The Irish poet John Keats immortally described autumn as “… the season of mists and mellow fruitfulness”. Hailing from Eire as he did, where the autumn months are more likely to bring gales, rain, sleet, snow and the aforementioned hail, the “mellow fruitfulness” of the poem is undoubtedly more poetic licence than metrological forecast.
If the great romantic poet had access to a time machine and alighted in Marbella (preferably alone, as the thought of his hell-raising companion, the infamous Lord Byron, let loose in Banus is too much to contemplate) he would have observed that Marbella is particularly mellow in the autumn.
As the crowds head home, residents on the coast breathe a long sigh of relief. 2024 was the summer season that broke all previous records in terms of tourists, hotel occupancy and increased spend per visitor, but this resulted in day-to-day life being a little more “challenging” usual, especially if you were stuck in yet another traffic delay.
For many of us who are lucky enough to live here year round, this is a favoured time of year. The gradual decrease in temperature allows us plenty of time to enjoy our pools, gardens and terraces without the harsh summer heat. Some brave souls can even be sighted enjoying bracing swims in the Mediterranean in November, as long as the sun is out!
As summer slips effortlessly into autumn, the gradual change of seasons means that, with a few small changes, you can continue to enjoy the outdoor lifestyle.
One of the main trends among home designers is the reimaging of outdoor spaces as alfresco sanctuaries for relaxation and entertainment. Casual lounging is a key feature, with large seats adorned with plush cushions on chairs and sofas, ensuring comfort and a laid-back aesthetic. The “Balearic Boho” design - bringing a little Ibiza influence to the coast – is extremely popular. Blending “Hippie Chic” with Mediterranean influences, the embraces earthy tones for a warm and natural look.
This use of earthy colours, such as brown, green, and terracotta, provides a natural look. These calming colours can also reduce the visual impact of your furniture on the landscape. For a touch of the dramatic, try adding brightly coloured cushions or throws as a contrast to the more natural tones.
A must for autumn living is creating cosy seating areas, perfect for that morning coffee in the sunshine, curling up with a book or having late night conversations with friends. If you want to be solitary, look for a secluded spot that gets a splash of morning sun. Comfortable cushions, throws, and outdoor rugs can help your create this space, while weather-resistant outdoor furniture will withstand the elements as well as provide comfort and style.
Alfresco dining during the cooler months is another of the quintessential outdoor living experiences. The options can range from a dedicated BBQ area to a fully functional outdoor kitchen. On the other hand, you might opt for a chill out space around a fire pit, perfect for relaxing with a few drinks as you count the stars on another crystal clear evening. Ensuring that your tables and chairs are made from durable materials such as teak and aluminium is a wise decision, but otherwise there is a huge range of designs for you to choose.
From minimalist and modern, to rustic and traditional, you are sure to find the exact look for the perfect outdoor living environment. For more inspiration, why not check out Design Week Malaga from 21st -27th October, to keep up with the latest trends. Then you can sit back in your outdoor space, relax and enjoy a little bit of “mellow fruitfulness”!
Popular posts
