Tag: al fresco

The Block 2019: courtyard reveals

Post author By Jen Bishop
Post date October 8, 2019
No Comments on The Block 2019: courtyard reveals

Today’s wrap up of last night’s courtyard reveals comes to you from our friends at The Block Shop!

MITCH AND MARK: 2nd PLACE
SCORE: 29/30

Mitch and Mark once again brought the ‘wow factor’ to their latest space, producing a drop dead gorgeous Palm Springs-inspired outdoor courtyard that was light, bright, fresh, and — most importantly — fun. The hero was undoubtedly that amazing floor-to-ceiling outdoor wallpaper, which featured the enormous palm trees and breeze blocks synonymous with America’s desert design hotspot.

Shop their look

TESS AND LUKE: LAST PLACE
SCORE: 24.5/30

Tess and Luke continued their dramatic, almost monochromatic, look in their courtyard space, producing a gorgeous, contemporary area that featured patterned flooring, a black feature wall with gold Rio sculptural feature, gold pots, a large domed hanging heater and black table with timber bench seats. But undoubtedly the main focal point was that absolutely stunning spiral staircase, which all three judges agreed was a stroke of genius.

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ANDY AND DEB: JOINT 3rd PLACE
SCORE: 26/30

Andy and Deb managed to create a beautiful, calm “inner city oasis” in their courtyard, which the judges all agreed was a lovely, warm, inviting area.

“This is a chilled space. I feel like I’m right at home here,” said Darren upon stepping into the walled-off courtyard, which featured timber feature walls, vertical garden details, a timber bench seat, circular coffee table and a large patch of artificial turf – perfect for buyers who might have a woofy little friend in tow.

Shop their look

EL’ISE AND MATT: JOINT 3rd PLACE
SCORE: 26/30

El’ise and Matt managed to create a beautiful, tranquil space in their courtyard, which the judges agreed provided a lovely respite from the busy streets of St Kilda outside. They managed to do this by incorporating a stunning stone feature wall – designed to match their gorgeous feature fireplace inside – a timber bench seat, large statement pots, hanging pendant lights and a black wire table and chair set. But it was the bamboo garden feature that won over the judges the most.

Shop their look

JESSE AND MEL: 1st PLACE
SCORE: 29.5/30

It wasn’t just Jesse and Mel’s eight-metre high tiled feature wall that scored them a win for Courtyard Week. In terms of form and function, the couple absolutely knocked it out of the park. “This is spectacular,” Neale said, upon stepping foot inside the striking space, which also featured statement sconce lighting, a timber BBQ and bar fridge, large timber seating area – complete with bespoke upholstery – and a huge timber table and black chairs.

Shop their look

All our previous Block coverage

Tags al fresco, alfresco, courtyard, courtyard week, outdoor, room reveal, st kilda, the block

Competitions House Tours Jen's reno Outdoor & Exteriors

Jen’s deck is summer ready + win my outdoor dining set

Post author By Jen Bishop
Post date September 24, 2019
6 Comments on Jen’s deck is summer ready + win my outdoor dining set

The folding arm awning which completed our back deck

Post author By Jen Bishop
Post date April 15, 2019
6 Comments on The folding arm awning which completed our back deck

You may have seen our recent back yard transformation with a new deck which gave us a beautiful and practical outdoor entertaining space. Unfortunately, it wasn’t quite perfect due to the loss of shade from dismantling the ageing pergola, so we needed a new solution. And it is a Sunway folding arm, retractable awning.

We didn’t think our old timber pergola was in too bad shape, but it seemed shortsighted to build a brand new deck around it so we decided to remove it and, when we did, we found out it was actually pretty badly weathered in places so it was just as well! With it gone, we loved the new open feeling to the space, which seemed much bigger. But we no longer had any kind of roof to protect us from the sun which, in this climate, is obviously a big issue, especially being a very sun safe family with young kids.

We love the option to have the awning retracted when we don’t need it

After some discussion, we settled on a retractable shade solution so that we could have the area totally open with the nice view to the lawn at the end of the deck when we didn’t need shade, and then we could open the awning when we were out there in the sun, especially entertaining friends or just having dinner as a family.

We knew Sunway by reputation so we were delighted to have the opportunity to work with the brand and choose from their range. We didn’t really know where to start though, having never bought an awning before or had a space for one. It was great to have a Sunway specialist come out from the local store to tell us more about the options, what was possible, and how we could customise it to our space and taste. No question was too stupid (I’m sure some were, but they certainly didn’t make me feel bad for asking!) and I found this a really important and useful part of the process.

Obviously, aesthetics are important to me as well as functionality and quality, and I spent quite a bit of time deciding on the broad charcoal and grey stripe design. Our house is not particularly modern so I felt it would suit the traditional striped look, but black and white felt too harsh against the red brick. I’m really delighted with how it looks. It ties in well with the house trim which we recently had painted charcoal, and the grey of the deck.

All Sunway products are custom made to measure to suit your space, so we were able to consider our very long outdoor dining table and ensure the awning would comfortably cover this at four metres long. Because the only place to fix the awning was quite low, under the eaves, we chose the Sunway Fabric Beam model to give us a bit of extra clearance and head height.

We chose a short straight valance to finish off the look, but it also comes with the option of a scalloped valance or none at all.

It’s fully motorised which means we can easily open it using the remote control, and we can even control it from our phones via WiFi using the Neo Smart Blinds app. There’s also a wireless motion sensor which cleverly ‘knows’ to retract the awning if it gets too windy (especially handy if you accidentally leave it open at the end of a party after a few glasses of bubbles, for example!).

The awning install happened just in time for the super hot Christmas holidays which was certainly a blessing. Electricians came in first to hard wire for the motorisation and then the awning itself went up, It was all done in a morning; just a few hours. I couldn’t believe it! And suddenly, we were set for summer entertaining!

We often set up Sebastian’s paddling pool under the awning

We are actually getting a lot more use out of the awning now, with the weather still sunny but nowhere near as uncomfortably hot as in the middle of the summer. The deck has really come into its own the last few weeks and we are so happy with our awning, which really finished it off for us.

For more information

Disclosure: Sunway provided us with an awning in exchange for an honest review of the product and service.

Tags al fresco, awning, deck, folding arm awning, hunter Douglas, jen bishop deck, jen bishop home, jen bishop interiors addict, outdoor, retractable awning, sun shade, sunday

Before & Afters Jen's reno Outdoor & Exteriors RENO ADDICT

My new deck: the big reveal!

Post author By Jen Bishop
Post date December 6, 2018
No Comments on My new deck: the big reveal!

Photography by Jacqui Turk

It finally stopped raining long enough in Sydney for us to shoot these photos of the finished deck and I couldn’t wait to share it with you. I also can’t wait to spend as much time out here as possible over the holidays!

When we bought this house, although it needed a lot of work to bring it up to the 21st century, we loved the size, the flat block and the backyard which had both an entertaining area –now decked– and a lawn for the kids. Although we still have a few things to finish, seeing it come together like this makes me so happy. We intend to live here for many years and I am thrilled that we now have an outdoor area that really does function as extra living space and an outdoor room (or two). It’s also brought the exterior up to date in a big way!

My husband Damian and I agree it’s now our second favourite space in the house after the kitchen. This may sound like a half-baked compliment but when you consider it’s not actually an enclosed room, I think it’s high praise indeed!

Although the new Trex deck is no bigger than the paved area was before, it feels so much bigger. This is due to a few things: the planks laid horizontally give the illusion of a wider space, the deck comes out from the French doors at the same height which gives great indoor/outdoor flow, we’ve removed the old timber pergola which was about halfway down, plus the light grey composite deck gives a modern, clean aesthetic.

The addition of the steps down to the lawn give it a really slick, finished look and nicely separate the two distinct areas. They’re also great to sit on and put pots on! I’m really glad I went with the grey colour, Island Mist, of the Trex Transcend decking collection, because it has toned down our sixties red brick house and it looks modern (while still in keeping), light and bright.

Because we no longer have a big back step, we can make use of extra space near the French doors, so we now have two distinct areas: one off the dining room for lounging with a coffee or a glass of wine (this was always my dream!) and the other further back for the barbecue and large dining table for entertaining friends. We can look out onto the lawn from wherever we’re sitting and there’s still room for the paddling pool if needed. What more can a girl ask for (maybe a spa, Santa?!)?

If I had to say what I love best about our Trex deck apart from the aesthetics, it would be the low maintenance aspect. And the fact it is hardwearing means I don’t cringe every time Seb rides his scooter over it or drops food on it, knowing it won’t scratch and I can easily hose anything off it. We’ve had plenty of rain (too much!) lately so I can see it drains well and dries off in the sun. While it does get quite hot under direct sun (we’re getting a retractable awning soon), so does any hard surface, including timber. This is the only minor negative I can find but the many other advantages of a composite deck far outweigh it in my honest opinion. I don’t make habit of hanging around in direct sun anyway!

In a nutshell I am absolutely thrilled with the finished product and the process of having it delivered and built was exceptional. The new deck has massively improved the use we can get out of our outdoor area for entertaining, eating as a family and just simply relaxing, right in time for summer. But we love it so much I think we’ll be out there even when it’s colder, huddled around our firepit!

Our al fresco’s now almost finished with new lighting, retractable awning and vertical herb garden still on the list. The new life that has been breathed into this backyard with our Trex deck make the mortgage repayments and living out in the ‘burbs seem more worthwhile than ever!

And before I sign off, here’s a little reminder of what it looked like when we bought it!

Why I chose Trex

More about my deck build

A new deck and new backyard look in under a week!

Post author By Jen Bishop
Post date November 29, 2018
No Comments on A new deck and new backyard look in under a week!

Following on from last week’s post on why I chose Trex Transcend composite decking for our backyard, today I’m telling you a bit more about the installation process and largely, how quick and easy it was. I only got to witness the first two days of the build before I was off to hospital to be induced and have baby Charlie, nine days late! But Damian left me updated with progress pictures and the best part was getting home with a new baby to a brand new, finished, beautiful deck!

Before we go any further, shall we flash back to what the ‘Nanna House’ backyard looked like when we bought it 18 months ago?

We’ve changed the sliding doors to timber French ones, removed the old pergola and had all that red trim painted charcoal

I know, right?! VERY Nanna! We’ve done a lot out here, including removing the old pergola and reclaiming a lot of lawn from the many little flowerbeds, but I don’t want to keep you all day, so I’ll stick to the decking for the purpose of this post!

The entire build took just 4.5 days, including creating two steps at the end down to the lawn (the most time-consuming part of the build). I was so impressed with how thorough the job was. The guys from Urban Arch really knew their stuff and it all ran like a well-oiled machine! When they told me it would only take a week, I was dubious, but in the end, it took even less! This has a lot to do with the Trex Hideaway Hidden Fastening System which makes install a breeze, within the realm of handy homeowners (which Damian and I are not), so you can even do it yourself!

Everything was delivered by Master Woodturning on day one, who expertly craned the heavy materials over our brand new picket fence!

First, a pest expert came to install a termite barrier around the edge of the house where the deck would meet it.

Termite treatment around the edge of the house where the deck meets it

I have mentioned my termite phobia before, so this gave me extra peace of mind! Then our old red-tiled back step was jack hammered off in preparation for the frame going in, which, much to my excitement, would be at the same level as the back door, hugely improving our indoor/outdoor flow.

You also don’t want a high step from your back door down to your al fresco when you have kids; it’s just asking for trouble. I am so happy to no longer have to worry about anyone tripping off the back step and falling flat on their face!

While all this was happening, we also had our favourite painters from BK Decor painting all the external trim of our house. All the trades managed to work around each other beautifully! I needn’t have worried about them getting in each other’s way or holding each other up!

Next, the timber frame, which was cut to size on site, went in. There was much measuring and cutting of timber and it all looked so pleasingly at right angles! Urban Arch explained that installing on top of pavers with good drainage was actually an excellent base for a deck. We decided against having railings installed, which Trex does offer in matching colours, because they weren’t really necessary at this height and we wanted to maximise the sense of space.

Where the steps will go in where the deck meets the lawn

It was really exciting to see the decking go in, and the space suddenly looked so much bigger and fresher, not to mention the fact it was all finally on one level. Yay! It was then I could really appreciate I’d chosen the right colour in the grey-toned Trex Island Mist, which I’m delighted with and everyone comments on!

I don’t want to share the entire transformation with you just yet (that’s coming next week, post-photoshoot) so these glimpses are just a teaser! Suffice to say we are thrilled and so impressed by and grateful for the great job done by Urban Arch and the amazing end result using Trex composite decking. You’re going to be super impressed when you see the finished look!

Make sure you come back next week to see it all! And if you have any questions, please ask them in the comments.

For more information about Trex, help with planning and budgeting, decking inspiration or to order free samples.

Disclaimer: My deck was supplied to me by Trex in exchange for coverage on this website, though this is an honest review of the product and service.

Tags al fresco, alfresco, composite decking, deck, decking, exterior, grey deck, grey decking, island mist, outdoor, trex, trex company, trex trasncend

Interiors Addict

Choosing a deck: my backyard transformation with Trex

Post author By Jen Bishop
Post date November 21, 2018
8 Comments on Choosing a deck: my backyard transformation with Trex

Today is the first in a series of three posts about our yet to be revealed backyard transformation, which I can’t wait to share.

A deck is every Aussie’s dream for the ultimate in indoor/outdoor living and seamless entertaining flow from your house to your al fresco, am I right?! Damian and I have always loved the idea of a deck, especially when we bought our family home 18 months ago, with a designated area for entertaining as well as a flat lawn further back for the kids (there are two since little Charlie joined us last month!) to play.

The back garden in full bloom last summer!

Maintenance though, is not our idea of fun. We have already realised that going from apartment balcony (where someone else takes care of the outdoors for you!) to front and back gardens is a big jump. Is it even the weekend if you’re not at Bunnings buying a lawnmower, hedge trimmer, lawn feed, and so the list goes on! Not to mention trying to modernise what was a very “Nanna” house inside too, lived in by the same old lady for three decades.

So, we didn’t want to have to think about sanding back, staining and treating a deck. No thanks! Plus we live in a bushfire prone area of Sydney’s upper north shore, we’re terrified of termites and we want the kids to be able to drop ice creams and have the paddling pool spill everywhere without worrying about a deck staining or rotting. And, of course, Australia gets really bloody hot for a large portion of the year, so I didn’t want something that would warp and split. Does a deck like this even exist?!

Enter: Trex Company, the world’s number one decking brand and the inventor of timber-alternative composite decking, with more than 25 years of product experience. When the brand approached me to work with them on creating the back deck we’d been dreaming of, I read the product information and it was like it had been designed for us! Equally, it’s eco-friendly and made of 95% recycled materials (a 4.9 metre Trex composite deck board contains approximately 2,250 recycled plastic bags), which sits well with me and my increasing consciousness of our disposable, throwaway society.

We picked Trex’s Transcend decking in their grey-toned colour option (there are 10 to choose from), Island Mist. It requires no sanding, staining or painting and uses special technology to ensure it will maintain its colour and finish against all of the Aussie elements. Sound too good to be true? It’s backed by a 25-year fade and stain warranty, so I was on board (or deck!).

In terms of caring for it, you literally sweep it with a soft bristle brush and clean the composite deck with soap and water when required. Too easy!

While you can install Trex decking yourself, I’ve made no secret in the past of our lack of practical skills, although Damian is becoming handier by the day since we moved here! So we were lucky enough to have experienced tradespeople Urban Arch do the job for us, with distributor Master Woodturning delivering the product.

Tony Masciocchi from Urban Arch came out to our home with samples to discuss what would work well, show me colours, discuss the design and what we wanted. Tony made everything really clear and answered all my stupid questions without making me feel stupid for asking them! I felt really confident that his team knew their stuff, having seen photos of other jobs, and I had no issue leaving them to it as the job was half finished when I disappeared into hospital to give birth!

Trex Transcend in Spiced Rum, one of 10 colours

So, just how hardy and low-maintenance is it? Unlike timber, Trex composite decking is termite-proof (woohoo!) and will not rot, splinter, split, scratch or require seasonal painting, staining or sealing. And it can withstand and resist intense sun, powerful winds, animal, insects (and children, presumably!), furniture and shoe wear, and strong salty seawater.

All Trex composite decking products come with an installation guide that covers planning and preparation, installation and care, if you want to DIY rather than have someone DIFY (Do It (For) You)!

NEXT WEEK: Read and see more about the build of our deck, including before photos.

For more information about Trex, help with planning and budgeting, decking inspiration or to order free samples.

Disclaimer: My deck was supplied to me by Trex in exchange for coverage on this website, though this is an honest review of the product and service.

Tags al fresco, back yard, backyard, composite deck, deck, decking, trex, trex company

Outdoor & Exteriors The Block

The Block 2018 room reveals: terrace week

Post author By Jen Bishop
Post date October 8, 2018
1 Comment on The Block 2018 room reveals: terrace week

I actually really enjoyed last night’s Block terrace reveals. They were a really mixed bag and the spaces themselves were very different too. No doubt there’ll be a lot of chatter about how they couldn’t be judged fairly because of this. Personally, Sara and Hayden’s was my favourite but the judges put them third, so what do I know?! Love to know who you rated! Here’s a recap from first to last place (and I definitely did agree on last place!)!

1st: NORM AND JESS
Score: 30/30

A room win at last! Full marks at that! Norm and Jess continually referred to themselves as the underdogs this week. But boy did they prove everyone wrong, scoring themselves their first win of the season! AND the cover of Domain!

The space came complete with architectural steel sculptural feature, concrete planters, a marble-topped BBQ, outdoor lounge, custom table, water feature – and even a faux grass area suitable for animals.

Clearly the judges were fans! “Wow, wow, wow, wow,” said Neale. Shaynna loved the dining table/hanging plant/pergola combo and said the details said luxury. Neale said everything said luxury! Shaynna said everywhere you turned there was another beautiful thing to look at. “If it feels this good on a cold wet day, can you imagine how good it’s going to feel on a good day?!” said Neale.

Shaynna’s only question was the placement of the sculpture and the seat. Neale thought they were deliberately trying to hide the seat! Darren loved the free space which he said could be the dancing zone! “When you’re out here you realise what a prime piece of Melbourne real estate this is,” said Neale. Darren was pretty much reaching for his chequebook!

I really didn’t like that bird screen and the pond was a bit of a child safety hazard, but overall, it was a great terrace, and I was happy to see them have a win. Not my fave though! And I wouldn’t have given it a perfect score myself.

My picks to buy: Raw Earth plant stand by Angus & Celeste and custom round dining table.

2nd: BIANCA AND CARLA
Score: 29/30

Bianca and Carla called on the services of Dave Franklin, Block garden designer extraordinaire, who delivered a stunning, sophisticated space, featuring a custom-made five-metre long table made from recycled timber, BBQ at the end, those 50 year-old Zycads – and a fireplace, which utilised the original chimney from the old Gatwick. But, arguably the hero was that skyline.

Darren said the view was spectacular and they all loved the fireplace and the huge table. Neale said it was classic, modern traditional and sexy all at once. The couch was badly placed though, out in the elements.

My picks to buy: Thermastrip outdoor heater and charcoal bar stools.

3rd: HAYDEN AND SARA
Score: 28.5/30

All three judges were unanimous in their praise, particularly Neale, who said he thought The Gatwick had never looked more elegant in its 80-year history. Keeping it super chic with a wraparound bar, they featured a sitting and dining area with custom outdoor kitchen, complete with concrete bench, green marble splashback, teppanyaki BBQ and twin tubular exhaust fans.

“Now that’s what I’m talking about,” said Darren. Neale said it was “hashtag enough” and Shaynna said it had wow factor. I’m so surprised they didn’t come first or second! This was my personal favourite.

“This is what I call selling the lifestyle,” said Neale. It was the most sophisticated and resolved he’d ever seen the couple and they’d saved the best for last. “This is exactly what the terrace needs to be in terms of luxury.” Darren said they’d really showed how you could live in the outdoor space in all weathers.

Neale said buyers would remember this terrace above everything else in their apartment.

My picks to buy: Velletri indoor outdoor dining table and Lepaar Harden hose.

4th: KERRIE AND SPENCE
Score: 25/30

Kerrie and Spence kept it cosy and comforting on their terrace, which featured an L-shaped white and timber lounge, light grey tiles, a dark grey table with eight stools (designed to match their piece inside), dark grey circular rug, a hanging chair and lots of greenery.

Neale said he thought it was really lovely and felt like a proper room. Shaynna said it was a casual version of the lounge room inside. Neale was surprised about the lack of barbecue (the quintessential Aussie accessory for a terrace or deck?). Darren thought it could have been easily incorporated. Shaynna loved the tiered planting and hanging sculpture they created in their challenge. Darren wondered if they’d done enough though. “You have so much expense in the kitchen. I love everything about it but the styling in it is really …” Shaynna thought the bar had been set so high inside, that outside let it down a bit. Darren liked the tile and fan choices. He said the space was full of life. “Kerrie and Spence should be really proud of the job they’ve done.”

My picks to buy: Alfresco bar table and nest of tables.

5th: HANS AND COURTNEY
Score: 23.5/30

As well as furnishing the area with plenty of green – think giant fiddle figs, Monsteras and palms – Hans and Courtney chose to dress their terrace with simple white and grey furniture with timber accents, a hanging chair and a large jute rug. They finished the space with a hero piece, a copper pot aged to showcase an oxidised light green. And let’s not forget the outdoor movie projector!

The judging didn’t go their way though, despite Darren being a fan. He thought it was fresh, light and bright and tropical. Shaynna however said it was boring as “bat”! She added she was sick of white walls. (Aren’t we all this season, Shaynna?!) She went one further to call it a white clinical box.

Neale didn’t agree with Darren either. He said it was Courtney and Hans at their worst, not understanding how to use the space, which wasn’t really an outdoor room. Darren defended them though, saying it was considered and the copper pot was a great statement piece. He thought it just needed a dining setting. Neale said it needed to be furnished differently because it was a good old fashioned sunroom, not a deck. Shaynna just got more and more annoyed, saying it was a missed opportunity.

I agree with the judges that this was the weakest room. Sara could learn a thing or two about gracious losing from Courtney though, eh?!

My picks to buy: Noosa hammock swing and Haiku black fan.

ALL OUR BLOCK COVERAGE

Tags al fresco, judges, judging, outdoor, outdoor furniture, room reveals, terrace, the block

DIY Expert Tips RENO ADDICT

How to seal pavers to keep them looking their best

Post author By Jen Bishop
Post date February 16, 2018
No Comments on How to seal pavers to keep them looking their best

We recently replaced our ancient old patio and made over our backyard with some beautiful EuroStone pavers from Adbri Masonry. And I learned the hard way, the importance of looking after them properly to keep them looking as good as the day they were laid! A few dropped icy poles and barbecue drips later, my beautiful patio was looking a little bit rough around the edges. This is when I remembered someone mentioning they could be sealed; something I’d neglected to get done. The good news is, you can do this easily yourself. I’ve now done it (all by myself!), so I can testify.

Adbri have so many great DIY videos on their website, starring their ambassador, TV landscaper Jason Hodges. He’ll even show you how to lay your own pavers, but we felt this was a bit beyond our skills (or lack thereof!) and paid some experts to do it. This next video shows how easy it is to seal your own pavers, which is what I wish I’d done straight away.

Luckily, things hadn’t got too bad for my patio and after giving the stains a good scrub with a specialist paver and concrete cleaner, I was able to seal them. I chose a wet-look sealer because I thought it would be nice to bring out the exposed aggregate in the pavers a bit more. Probably the hardest part about sealing pavers is waiting for the right weather; not too hot and not likely to rain for a while, because you need two coats, whichever product you choose to use. You need to apply the sealer to dry pavers and then allow drying time between coats.

I used Berger Jet Dry Active Clean and Berger Jet Dry Stone & Paving Sealer Wet Look, which I bought at my local Bunnings. I used a short nap (4mm) roller (as per the directions on the can) on a pole. Each brand’s product will have slightly different application instructions.

Nothing a bit of elbow grease won’t fix!

It really didn’t take long and it isn’t hard work. And once the second coat was complete, and dry, I really liked the slight sheen it gave and the way it brought out the look of the aggregates a bit more. It was a subtle change aesthetically though, and more about protecting them so they’ll stay looking good.

AFTER sealing they look slightly darker with a slight sheen and the aggregates a bit more obvious

I feel such a relief now I know it’s done and we can enjoy the rest of the sunny weather outside without stressing over every bit of dropped food (hello, toddler!).

My biggest advice though, is to do this as soon as your pavers are laid so they are still in 100% perfect condition.

There you go: I hope you’ll learn from my mistake and look after your pavers!

For more on Adbri Masonry.

For more on my reno.

Tags Abri masonry, al fresco, concrete, courtyard, diy paver sealer, how to seal pavers, jason hodges, outdoor, patio, pavers, sealer, wet look paver sealer

Jen's reno Outdoor & Exteriors

Jen’s back yard makeover reveal

Post author By Jen Bishop
Post date December 19, 2017
5 Comments on Jen’s back yard makeover reveal

Let’s face it, one of the best things about upgrading from apartment to house, like we did this year, is having a back yard. Not only has it been amazing for Seb, who even stopped wanting to go to the park for a while because he loved hanging out there so much, but as an extra outdoor room for us grown ups. Being a Pom, I really appreciate the outdoor lifestyle Australia affords me, so I was excited to have a decent sized paved area down one side of the house as well as a grassed lawn at the back. Only problem was, it looked like this:

Hot or what?!

But now we have this lovely oasis:

In the before photo, you’ll note the old and wonky, red-toned pavers (I actually hate anything red-toned in interiors and exteriors, hence my plan to paint our red brick grey eventually!), the fence that could fall down in a stiff breeze and the distinct lack of furniture. That table for two from our old apartment balcony wasn’t really cutting it!

We thought about a deck for ages, until we got a quote ($30 to $40k) and then we quickly forgot about it. Then one day, a press release from Adbri Masonry landed in my inbox and I suddenly thought: why have I never considered pavers?! It’s like everyone assumes you need to build a deck these days. But what’s wrong with pavers? In fact, there’s a lot right with them! They’re super durable, come in loads of colours, shapes and sizes, and you can lay them in myriad different patterns. Not to mention they’re a great safe option in bushfire zones. I quickly settled on their EuroStone product in a 400x400mm size and loved the mid-grey colour of Zurich. It almost looks a little Terrazzo and we all know how on trend that is right now!

As with most things, you can lay these kind of pavers yourself (Adbri have plenty of how-to’s with TV’s Jason Hodges on their website) but we lacked the skills and the time, so we got in the professionals. All up, it was about $4,000 of pavers (including a path across the front of the house and around the side to the back yard) and about the same again in labour. A snip compared to decking!

It took about a day to complete and thankfully, they were able to lay the pavers on top of the existing ones which saved us having to either remove them ourselves or pay someone else to. I absolutely loved watching the process as it all became so neat and uniform!

I am so thrilled with the end result. The area looks so much bigger and more modern and when we paint our red brick exterior grey and our pergola white, it’s going to look even better! It was like giving our entertaining area a brand new, clean slate to work with. I couldn’t believe how much difference it made! And now I think of it, a timber deck wouldn’t have really suited the look of the house anyway. And I love knowing this will last for years if properly maintained. And I’m all about long term in this house! Bigger, lighter, neater and more modern: what’s not to like?

But of course, we needed some furniture now we had a space we wanted to entertain and spend time in ourselves. I was so impressed with the range of styles available at Early Settler this summer, not to mention the quality. Whether your home is traditional, country, or ultra modern, with a small or large outdoor area, they really do have something to suit everyone. I thought about the stunning marble-topped outdoor dining table with black legs for quite a while before eventually conceding it was too modern for our space. I love our sweet, flower-filled garden, and it’s something we were really happy to inherit from the previous owner. So I decided on white and the Kanto dining table. I just couldn’t get past its handy legs on castors and it was a great choice for us because we can easily move the table around, in and out of shade, or to create more room for Seb on his trike when we aren’t using it. Genius!

The timber top of this table is just beautiful and I think the white legs really modernise it. The Cate dining chairs are so cool. I love that they stack, they’re super easy to clean and they look modern without being too out there. They come in a variety of great on-trend colours too.

As well as a decent-sized dining table, we wanted a small relaxation area to just lounge with a morning coffee or an evening wine, look at the garden, listen to the birds or watch Seb on his play equipment. The Cantina chairs were a very quick choice and I love them. You can actually curl up in them with your book and there’s space for Seb to sit with me on the same chair. We finished it off with the matching Kanto coffee table (also on castors) so we have somewhere to rest out drinks and books! I really love that we can easily move the two tables on wheels, the lightweight, stacking dining chairs and the lounge chairs easily. This creates a flexible space and we can move everything to one side with minimal effort and allow Seb to scoot around the paved area, or when we need to sweep up leaves etc.

I absolutely love this floral outdoor cushion

Just like indoors, outdoor areas need accessorising too, and Early Settler have a great range of faux plants (like the palm behind me in the picture and the convincing succulents on the table ), outdoor rugs and cushions, linen, trays and more, to add those finishing touches.

Faux succulents and napkins from Early Settler

The sun umbrella, which matches the outdoor cushions, is great for shading Seb’s sandpit on sunny days and is easily moved around the garden

When we spoke to our neighbours about going halves on a new fence, thankfully they were all for it! So not only do we have a much better backdrop to our new back yard, we also have more privacy for our entertaining area thanks to a higher fence.

So while we haven’t done any major landscaping and there’s still plenty we’d love to do out the back (and will do, one day) we are over the moon with the new look and functionality of this space thanks to new pavers and furniture. And just in time for summer too. We’ll be out here on Christmas Day with our families, enjoying it to the max!

Many of the Early Settler pieces in my back yard are currently on sale! Shop online.

For more about Adbri Masonry.

My kitchen reno | My new floors | My home office

Tags Adbri masonry, al fresco, concrete, early settler, interiors addict reno, jen bishop reno, outdoor, outdoor furniture, patio, pavers, paving

Designers Homewares

Wedgwood’s iconic Wild Strawberry gets the gold treatment

Post author By Jen Bishop
Post date April 9, 2015
No Comments on Wedgwood’s iconic Wild Strawberry gets the gold treatment

I’m getting a little nostalgic over Wedgwood’s very cool reinvention of its classic and instantly recognisable Wild Strawberry design. You see, as a child growing up in England, my dad often bought me small Wedgwood pieces in this very pattern (I thought I was extremely grown up and special as a result)! So very English, don’t you think?!

Anyway, much as I have a fondness for the original, the new Wedgwood Wild Strawberry Al Fresco collection is pretty exciting too. Acknowledging changing trends in contemporary entertaining, Wild Strawberry’s illustrative design meets the bold metallic design from the Al Fresco collection, introducing an element of glamour to both the dining table and the wider home.

Whimsical finishing touches and tributes to the original design are found throughout the collection alongside unique pieces such as the multifunctional Strawberry Punnet and generously sized Leaf Bowl.

Coordinating luxurious handcrafted crystal stemware blends seamlessly with the modern lines, generous proportions and relaxed curves of the tableware collection. Striking etched detailing decorates both stemware and serveware. Key statement pieces from the collection such as the Cocktail Jug and Water Pitcher, as well as elegant tart stands, fuse utility with design.

The Al Fresco collection includes a number of limited edition designs. The punch service is a stunning lidded centrepiece, hand carved with over 1,600 individual cuts placed delicately across the bowl and its accompanying cups. A gold tea set of teapot, cream jug and sugar bowl (I really need one!) is the standout of the metallic designs.

Wedgwood Wild Strawberry is available online at wedgwood.com.au or at David Jones, Myer and upmarket independent stores. For enquiries call 1300 852 022.

Wedgwood is an iconic English luxury brand established in 1759 which has, more recently, forged successful creative partnerships with designers Jasper Conran and Vera Wang. A luxury collection of fine bone china and iconic jasper wear decorative items continues to be made in England by skilled craftsmen at the Barlaston factory situated on the Wedgwood Estate, Staffordshire.

Tags al fresco, england, english, fine bone china, gold, wedgwood, wild strawberry

Furniture House Tours Outdoor & Exteriors

Interiors Addict at home: our new outdoor relaxing space

Post author By Jen Bishop
Post date January 21, 2015
11 Comments on Interiors Addict at home: our new outdoor relaxing space

This post is sponsored by IKEA

SAMSUNG CAMERA PICTURES — My new look deck, complete with lounging AND dining areas

We recently moved into our first house in Sydney. While the huge deck that runs the length of said house seemed fantastic at first, having come from an apartment with a small, square balcony, we didn’t have much to fill it. Our Weber Baby Q still looks very lost and sorry for itself! We rushed out and bought a cheap and large dining solution (who has money when they’ve just moved, right?) at IKEA which gave us a taste of the range and value on offer. We opted for two lots of the ASKHOLMEN table and four chairs ($149 each) and put them together, which gave us a long, solid timber dining set for eight for less than $300! I know!

But our massive deck (first world problems) still looked empty and we really wanted a nice, cosy, outdoor-room type, relaxing space for morning coffees and lazy Sundays with friends. I wanted to be able to walk outside the back door and slump into something comfy on a nice afternoon. So when IKEA offered to help me out with some furniture, I couldn’t refuse.

I started by looking online for inspiration and quickly settled on the ARHOLMA modular lounges which have a million options, from a neat two-seater which would fit a balcony (and comes in two pieces so could actually get up stairs!) to something, well, as big as you like. You basically buy units of it, and corners, and make an L-shape, U-shape, or just a regular lounge shape from two seats and up. We went for a two-seater and a slightly larger four-seater L-shape to sit opposite it for a nice social setting. We mixed things up a bit by using a much treasured vintage, marble-topped coffee table bought on eBay years ago (which doesn’t work in our new lounge room indoors) and I really love how it looks. It cost me $60 so I’m not too precious about how it fares outside and it kind of adds to its character!

There is a matching coffee table available for ARHOLMA however. Well, it’s actually a unit which can be the L part of an L-shape lounge or you can buy the glass top and make it a table. Again, flexibility wins!

IKEA's ARHHOLMA chair and lounge — IKEA’s ARHHOLMA chair and lounge

I love neutrals outside. Let nature do the talking and make the colour, I say. How about you? If you’re the same as me, Into the Fold have some fab monochrome outdoor cushions.

When you think about it, it makes sense that IKEA, with their European heritage, design plenty of outdoor furniture for small spaces and balconies. Although we’re definitely a nation of outdoor entertainers in Australia, it can be hard to find solutions for tighter spaces and there are no shortage of apartment dwellers, alongside those lucky enough to have a spacious back yard. IKEA has both covered.

I really love this IKEA solution for small balconies

Amanda Grant, IKEA’s sales leader for outdoor furniture, says alongside its European background, one of the brand’s biggest advantages when it comes to outdoor furniture is its vast experience in indoor furniture. “We have an amazing range around different style preferences and price points, from basic modern to more traditional, to suit different lifestyles and wallets.” There are plenty of larger, more substantial dining and lounging solutions if that’s what you’re after.

IKEA has outdoor furniture for all tastes and budgets, from the smallest balcony to the largest yard!

There’s a core range of outdoor available at IKEA year-round and then extra things are introduced around summer time. But from this year, for the first time, there’ll be new ranges added in July/August as well as February, which makes sense considering Australians only really stay inside for about two or three months of the year!

Amanda says while their outdoor dining range is already well known, they hope customers will come to look at them as an option for great lounging options as well.

Personally, I think the ARHOLMA is great value ( a three-seater sofa is just $412 for example) and so flexible. It’s good to know we can change it around at a later date or add to it if we move house etc. I’ll be honest with you, it is not easy to put together and requires serious patience (lucky husband and brother-in-law got this job!) but it does all go together in the end, no missing parts, just fiddly! And that, in my opinion, is the price you pay for such good value. You can’t have it all! They do offer a paid for assembly service or I’d suggest trying Airtasker for someone to do the job for you as an alternative.

We also picked the cute timber ASKHOLMEN (tying in with our existing dining set) table ($39) and two chairs ($30 each) for a shady spot under a tree at the bottom of the garden beyond the deck.

And there are many other finishing touches available for your yard, deck or balcony too, from solar and LED lighting to hardy outdoor plants to sun shades (parasols and gazebos), planter boxes and lanterns.

Something you might want to check out is the great value instant flooring, perfect for disguising an ugly old concrete balcony floor in minutes!

We’re so happy with our new chillout area and feel we’ve gained a new outdoor room and some extra livable space. And while we still need a bigger barbecue, we’ll get there eventually!

Next stop: get tired-looking deck stained! The shame…

Until TOMORROW (22 January 2015) only, if you’re an IKEA Family member (it’s free to join) get a $50 voucher for every $250 you spend on outdoor lounging furniture. See website for terms and conditions.

Tags al fresco, balcony, balcony flooring, deck, decking, dining, european, ikea, interiors addict, lounge, lounging, makeover, outdoor, Summer, timber furniture, yard

Interiors Addict

Take your entertaining outside

Post author By Jen Bishop
Post date September 19, 2013
2 Comments on Take your entertaining outside

Sponsored by Freedom

As the first gusts of Summer roll in, we’re thinking of those memorable days al fresco. Enjoying breakfast on the balcony before work, Sundays where lunches with friends and family turn into early dinners, barbecues that are etched into your mind and the laughter belts through the neighbourhood. This summer, Freedom have a range of outdoor settings to suit any occasion. And there’s currently 25% off!

The Brunch 3-piece and compact Moloko peacock chair

“Australians really come to life in Summer, with seemingly endless entertaining opportunities. Backyards are buzzing with excitement, and people rush home after work to make the most of those extra hours of sunshine. It’s little wonder that our new outdoor collection is bursting with colour and personality, allowing you to update your outdoor area ahead of prime barbecue season!” said Lucie McCann, furniture buyer for Freedom.

Tags al fresco, balcony, entertaining, featured, freedom, Garden, outdoor entertaining, outdoor furniture, outdoor homewares, outdoor rugs, patio, sponsored post, Summer, yard

Furniture

Freestanding hammocks in Lujo’s “good life” outdoor furniture range

Post author By Jen Bishop
Post date November 19, 2012

Lujo is a New Zealand brand that embraces the idea of total relaxation and living the good life!

Designer Warren Twisleton says: “I have created a range of designer furniture that includes a freestanding luxury hammock and a collection of outdoor bean bags, sun loungers and ottomans. Relaxing with a good book under a leafy tree, lazing by the pool with friends and family, sinking into a comfy bean bag to enjoy your Sunday afternoon—we think everyone needs more moments like these in their lives!”

Who am I to argue?!

Tags al fresco, freestanding hammock, hammock, lujo, new zealand design, outdoor, outdoor furniture