[Advertisement – this is a paid partnership with Carl Hansen & Søn, but all words and opinions are my own]

It’s that time of year when many of us start to think about getting our gardens, terraces or balconies ready for the warmer months ahead, and today I’m excited to share some inspiration for minimalist outdoor furniture in collaboration with Carl Hansen & Søn.

Our garden is very much a work in progress, but it’s fairly quiet for a city location and, as it faces south-west, it catches the sun for most of the day. It’s also something of a mini wildlife haven, and the resident birds, bats, foxes, frogs, dragonflies and butterflies are always a joy to see. In spring and summer, we tend to spend most evenings and weekends out there, and it’s almost become another room of the house. That means the furniture we choose for it is just as important as the landscaping and planting, and the ideal pieces need to balance aesthetics, comfort, practicality and durability.

Step forward the ‘AH’ outdoor series from Carl Hansen & Søn. Designed by Danish architect Alfred Homann (1948-2022) shortly before he passed away, it combines functionality with a timeless, minimalist expression that suits a wide range of garden styles. It’s made from FSC-certified teak – a strong hardwood whose natural oil content makes it resistant to weather, insect attacks and rot – and it’s tough enough to withstand even the fickle British climate. The high level of oil also means it can be supplied untreated, and over time it will slowly change from light brown to a beautiful silvery-grey – although you can choose to treat it yourself if you want to retain the original golden hue.

The range is also very practical. The table and chairs are stackable, and all the seating options can be used on their own or combined with padded cushions in a neutral weatherproof textile. I appreciated the versatility they offer, as you can add them to the seat, the backrest or both, and the linear stitching gives them a contemporary twist. They’re also far less bulky than most outdoor furniture cushions, meaning they’re easy to store away over winter, and they’re quick to secure in place thanks to simple ties and loops that hook around the frames.