As warmer weather turns our attention to the deck, patio, balcony and garden, we all jump to stock up on new outdoor furniture that will help us achieve our ultimate goal: to host an all-day barbecue under the sun, lounging with friends in stylish surrounds, then sitting outside chatting late into the night as though we were in Spain.

This classic Irish fantasy is the only reason we buy outdoor homewares in this country. Imagine getting a sliver of sun only to have to drag a kitchen chair out to the patio. We delude ourselves, but seeing as though we’re all apparently drinking the same Kool-Aid, we may as well do a proper job of it.

How much difference a year makes. For the past couple of years, a clay chiminea and an upgrade to a fancy barbecue were “all that”, in the same way that, in the 1990s, the patio heater meant you had arrived. This year, the outdoor pizza oven is where it’s at. Aldi and Lidl have even turned up a few models in their “special buys”, but given our climate, it’s worth throwing a bit more cash at a good rust-resistant model. They aren’t as expensive as you would think, and they pander to the Irish climate, in that you can cook a pizza in 90 seconds between downpours.

There are other developments. Just as the chaise longue has returned to comfort us indoors, the bed lounger is what the garden now expects. Indoor-outdoor rugs have become ubiquitous, rather than the preserve of a few in the know, and synthetic wicker and string-upholstered outdoor furniture is suddenly super affordable, from such shops as Next, Marks & Spencer and Debenhams.

However, the best developments involve the arrival of the true indoor- outdoor setting: the outdoor kitchen, complete with work surfaces, tiling and sinks, where you wash, chop and prep food among your sun-lizard guests on the patio before the barbecue.

When it comes to decor, finally, we are bringing our love of moody greys with citrus contrasts to the outside. Outdoor paints are now being used in the same way as we use them inside: with restraint, clearly defined zones and sharp colour blocking, as Cuprinol has been showing off in its latest campaign. It will take it to Bloom in the Park this year, from June 1-5.

Outdoor-kitchen colour schemes include “indoors” detailing, such as stencilled backsplashes, and greys are welcome, providing a foil for lush green foliage and pops of colourful florals.

SLICE AND DICE