You know the scene. The balmy summer evenings shift into the crisp autumn nights, providing a refreshing change in atmosphere, but the skies are still clear and the stars are out. And there’s a wafting aroma of something delicious being cooked on a neighbour’s barbecue. Who wants to be indoors on a night like this?
WA’s climate is tailor-made for dining, entertaining, and unwinding outdoors for most of the year. In fact, the outdoor area of many homes is an extension of the indoors, with a living area, dining space and even an outdoor kitchen.
Whether it’s a simple paved patio, a poolside garden, a balcony or a full size undercover alfresco, there are lots of ways to bring some magic into the way you spend time ‘out the back’ - and it’s more than just putting up some party lights and cooking onions. While you need the space to be functional, it’s important it looks attractive and inviting, too.
No need to lose the garden #
The traditional Aussie ‘back garden’, with its lemon tree and Hills Hoist, may have largely disappeared due to smaller block sizes and bigger homes, but there’s no need to forgo the beauty of plants.
Carefully positioned potted plants, hanging plants, vines, flowers, shrubs and herb gardens can turn your outdoor space or undercover area into a private paradise, while also providing shade and protection from the wind. Plus, of course, the view of all that greenery will add a sense of tranquility and boost your mood. Just be sure to select sturdy containers or pot plants that won't tip over or get blown away by the wind, and plants that can survive the conditions, for instance, in full shade or full sun.
Another option is to create a ‘living wall’, or a green feature wall. This is a great idea for smaller balconies or patios. Vertical greenery is gaining popularity in home designs, and it can be as simple as installing a trellis for climbing plants, or some vertical shelving for pot plants with falling or spreading foliage. A flower-covered trellis can create a beautiful private hideaway.
Fire up the barbie, it’s party time! #
Who doesn’t love a backyard barbie! No matter your outdoor space, you can make it your own - with easy care greenery, multi-use furniture and some outdoor festoon lighting. Take it up a notch and add a portable pizza oven from Bunnings, or maybe a fire pit to toast marshmallows and keep the conversations cosy in the cooler months. This is all about areas where you feel comfortable - and where you look forward to coming home to! So the kids can play and you can entertain with ease. Add a wireless speaker, and your favourite playlist to amp up the atmosphere. But really, all you need is some good food and good friends to create perfect fun outdoors.
Turn up the lights #
Create an exotic atmosphere in your outdoor entertaining area with flaming tiki torches, LED string lights, solar-powered pathway lights or lanterns - or all of the above! Lighting is critical to ambience, and the right lighting can put people in a festive mood right from the start. Of course, it’s also there to help people see and stay safe, so don’t make it too dim!
Create year-round comfort #
Ideally, you want to enjoy your beautiful new outdoor area in every season. To maximise comfort year-round, consider installing a ceiling fan—it won’t lower the temperature, but the circulating air creates a cooling breeze, making the space feel fresher.
A concrete floor is a great choice for outdoor areas; not only is it stylish and durable, but it also absorbs less heat, keeping it cooler underfoot. For warmth in cooler months, a ceiling-mounted electric heater is a space-saving option that directs heat downwards. If you have more room, a gas patio heater offers flexibility, allowing you to move it where needed.
To protect your space from the elements, outdoor blinds or shutters add both function and style, helping define the area while providing shelter. For smaller or separate zones, an outdoor umbrella is a practical addition. Choose a permanently fixed model for stability or a cantilever umbrella with a movable base for flexible, unobstructed shade.
Here are some more quick tips to take away:
- Hanging and swinging chairs and bean bags are big trends to follow right now
- Industrial-finish cement tabletops are also popular, and they’re very rugged in the outdoors
- From wireless outdoor speakers and lighting that can be controlled via an app on your smartphone, to wireless weather stations and robot lawnmowers, use technology to amp up the way you spend time outdoors.
- Add a food and beverage station. To save you running in and out of the kitchen, a bar cart on wheels or an outdoor cooler on wheels is a great conversation piece. If there’s a storage shelf or space for (unbreakable) glasses and snacks, even better!
Image shown: Dale Alcock Display Home, ‘Ferngrove’, 44 Attadale Ave, Darch WA 6065
Most importantly, it’s your home, so embrace your personal style. Let your imagination fly, and let the space reflect your personality and lifestyle. Then kick back, relax, and enjoy the beautiful outdoor space you’ve created!
Picture: premium Unsplash (ant subscription)
