More lounging, Turkish-style

Patara, Turkey

I’ve just got back from Turkey, where I was mostly horizontal. I find it really hard to sit cross-legged on low cushions, so I had to recline even when I wasn’t on a lounger/beach towel/bed. I probably lost the use of some key sitting muscles as a result, and I may have to ask my boss if we can reconfigure the office to include a day bed or chaise longue from which I can work.

Some of my reclining took place on this Ottoman-style terrace at the Patara Viewpoint Hotel. Apparently such terraces are mostly used in winter and are often used to heat houses, but every night in summer, Muzaffer, the hotel’s owner, lights a cedarwood fire on his for guests to enjoy. Cedar wood has a lovely, spicy scent and, according to Muzaffer, it keeps mosquitoes away too. The terrace is the perfect spot for gazing at the stars.

The combination of fire and stars is a powerful and mesmerising one, and something most of us rarely experience.

Clearly an Ottoman terrace is not an option for the average British semi, but it struck me that most of us are free to enjoy a firepit, woodburning stove or chiminea, some old cushions and a blanket or two. It would be infinitely more fulfilling than a TV, sofa and permanently glowing iPhone.

 

PS: For more on Turkish lounging, see here

7 thoughts on “More lounging, Turkish-style”

  1. Hello young Lady. Long time no talky talky. Such a long time since you last came round to take a picture of
    my bush. Happy to tell you that the garden is looking absolutely beautiful at the mo. Was out there at the weekend with Stan having a barbie. It was his 69th birthday on the friday. Bought him the latest Rita Ora album which he seems to enjoy when he’s watering the plants. Good to hear you had a pleasant time in Turkey. I went to Istanbul back in the 60’s with a couple of girlfriends. You say you were horizontal most of the time you were there . Don’t tell the hubby but I can remember being horizontal myself most of the time I was there. Oh yes quite naughty I was back then. Before I met Stan ofcourse. Anyway those were the days. Take care young lady.

    Reply
  2. For other inspirational images and ideas of outdoor living and the sofra style of seating check out John Stefanidis’ tome ” An Island Sanctuary” – the story of his house in Patmos. The book includes examples of this type of seating inside too.

    Keep up the good work Veronica!

    Reply

Leave a Reply to vpeerless Cancel reply