Every Aussie home needs a great outdoor area, It’s the perfect place to spend time with friends and family over the warmer months, or to simply sit back and enjoy being out in the fresh air.
Whether you have a big backyard, a tiny patio area or a covered verandah, there are plenty of things you can do to create an outdoor living space that is both beautiful and functional.
Consider your needs
First and foremost you'll need to work out exactly how you'll be using your outdoor space, whether that be focused on entertaining, relaxing and admiring the views or relaxed alfresco family dinners. This can help determine how big the space will need to be and what elements to include. For example do you need an outdoor kitchen for preparing meals, or various seating options for the family and guests, or any other outdoor furniture such as dining tables or picnic benches to give you everything you need to make the most of your space and increase comfort.
Design around the sun
Sun exposure can make or break an outdoor space, while you'll definitely want to position the area to allow for sufficient sunshine, too much can make it unbearable throughout the hotter months, meaning you won't be able to enjoy your outdoor space as much as possible. Including smart shade options such as awnings, umbrellas and even pergola's can help protect you from the sun in the warmest part of the day, or help offer some protection from a sea breeze - giving you a spot that is just as comfortable in the mornings, as it is in the afternoon and evening. This will allow you to maximise the time spent outside, make the most of the nice weather without having to keep sheltering from the rays inside.
Incorporating your garden and greenery into your outdoor area will bring a breath of life into the space - after all, you don't want your outside area to feel like it's inside! Something as simple as adding potted plants and herb gardens can really help enhance the natural, outdoor feel of your space. Or if you'd like to bring more life into the area, growing ivy or flowing vines through a pergola or trellis can make for a beautiful setting that not only looks great, but creates additional shade too.
When it comes to designing an outdoor area there really isn't a right or wrong way to go about it, it all depends on your lifestyle! That’s why at Manor Homes, we give you the flexibility to add decking areas, verandas or alfresco options to your design so that you can make the most of the scenery as well as the weather when the sun is shining.