The summer season brings with it garden parties, picnics and cocktails on the patio. Yet if your outdoor space doesn’t feel quite large enough for such occasions, there is one straightforward change you can make to create a far more open atmosphere.

Even better, this quick fix won’t break the bank — it’s a simple £15 hack to get your garden party-ready. Bradley Spencer of garden furniture specialists Royal Finesse said: “We don’t all have as much space in our gardens as we might like, but that doesn’t mean we can make the most of what we do have. Making your outdoor space look and feel bigger than it really is might just mean giving your garden fence a new coat of paint.

“Lighter colours such as an off-white or light grey help reflect sunlight and can soften the edges of your garden to the eye, making it feel more spacious.

“Similarly, earthy tints such as a soft brown or green are great for creating a harmony between the natural colours found in your garden and its boundaries.

“Given that a tin of fence paint can start from around £15 in many hardware stores, it could be a quick and cost-effective way to give your garden a fresh new look.”

Should you decide to give this hack a go yourself, ensure your fence is thoroughly clean and primed for painting. Clear away any dirt or flaking paint using either a pressure washer or a scrub brush, soap, water and a bit of muscle.

Once the fence is clean and completely dry, it’s advisable to sand it lightly and address any blemishes before you begin painting.

Bradley suggests that if painting the fence isn’t appealing, there are several alternative techniques you can employ to generate a feeling of spaciousness.

He said: “Making good use of vertical space can go a long way, such as using climbing plants on walls to maintain a good amount of free floor space.

“Mirrors can also be used tactically, ensuring the reflection showcases more visually pleasing parts of the garden rather than the bins or a dead-end.

“Finally, try not to clutter your garden with junk, ensuring items such as garden furniture are practical and versatile, as well as maximising available space.”