With 125k Instagram followers, there’s a chance some of you may follow the dad duo The Real Dads of Melbourne. And while they candidly document their daily lives in Melbourne (they have a son and they foster children too), it’s their recent holiday home renovation that piqued our interest. Purchased during Melbourne’s first COVID lockdown, the family have been slowly renovating the Mornington Peninsula property and recently installed a show-stopping pool and outdoor entertaining area.
BEFORE
AFTER
“When we were looking for a holiday home, a pool was a priority. We also wanted an outdoor space that we could entertain in with a built-in barbecue,” says Jarrad Duggan-Tierney, who shares the home with his husband Michael and son Reid.
Michael is a builder by trade and Jarrad has always loved interiors and styling – no stranger to renovation, the couple have renovated and flipped a few homes in the past. “This one is not a flipper though – it’s a ‘keep forever’ home that we hope to pass on to our son when he is old enough,” says Jarrad of the three-bed, U-shaped holiday home that is built around a central, outdoor space.
The fabulous outdoor entertaining space features a Nordik Living table and chairs
The original outdoor area featured nothing but grass and a trampoline before the landscape design company Mint completely redesigned the area resulting in maximised use of space and a fabulous entertaining area. “We wanted the swimming pool to be visible from most rooms in the house and we also wanted to work around the existing established Acacia tree,” says Jarrad.
The pool features an array of luxe finishes including a tundra marble tile surround, mosaic pool tiles within, composite decking and a luxe outdoor barbecue and dining area. “The mosaic tiles have a pearlescent finish. We told Mint what colour we wanted the water to be and they told us what colour tile would achieve that,” says Jarrad who explains that the water colour was inspired by the Maldives, the couple’s honeymoon destination.
A chic timber batten fence curves around the home’s outdoor barbecue area
A minimal and stylish white timber battened fence surrounds the area and a custom white powder coated steel bollard pool fence draws the eye too. “Because it’s a holiday house, we wanted something that was low-maintenance and we didn’t want something that was generic either,” says Jarrad of the fence design.
Pearlescent mosaic tiles line the pool
A custom water feature sits at one end of the pool
As for any challenges in building the outdoor area, Jarrad explains that COVID constraints threw in significant curve balls. “We couldn’t visit the property, so we spent a lot of time on Facetime. There were also issues with trades not being allowed to work. But Mint sent us pictures daily and it all worked out in the end. We particularly love the view from the lounge room looking out onto the pool. It looks exactly like the renders!”
The Real Dads of Melbourne: Jarrad, Reid and Michael Duggan-Tierney
Chic pool cabana highlight of new Hamptons style Melbourne home
A knockdown and re-build in the Melbourne suburb of Essendon, this fresh and timeless abode is home to Tory and Andrew Keam and their two young daughters Ivy and Lola.…
Designed by Melbourne furniture label Barnaby Lane and inspired by the city’s seemingly never ending COVID-19 lockdown, the Pool Buoy range of inflatable pools are as chic as they are practical. “With a young family myself, I have constantly invested, and found fun, in the kiddie alternatives over summer – inflatable pools, slip and slides, the simple garden hose or sprinkler,” says Pool Buoy founder Rae Maxwell who designed the range to fill an obvious gap in the market for Insta-worthy inflatable pools.
Pool Buoy’s ‘Kinky Splash’ design
“I wondered why there weren’t any stylish inflatable pools on the market and once you add in a case of COVID house fever (that’s not a real thing!), you have a creative melting pot for someone that needs an outlet,” says Rae.
Inspired by Slim Aarons’ iconic 1960’s poolside scenes, the designs are fresh and fun – there’s a burnt orange and flamingo pink iteration as well as two gorgeous terrazzo designs, a wavy geometric one and a plain peach grid-like one for the minimalists.
The Italian inspired ‘Luigui Lovegood’ design
“I’m a huge fan of mid-century design and when thinking about the designs and colours my mind automatically went to Slim Aarons Poolside – a 1960’s vibe. Such a cool era. That really drove the brand name, copy and designs. They are bright, colourful, cheeky and celebrate the days of socialising poolside,” says Rae.
The ‘Wavy Bjorne’ design
Made from non-toxic, heavyweight vinyl that is BPA, phthalate and lead-free, the pools are reasonably priced at $149. They also come with complementary repair kits, a handy storage bag and you can purchase a pump accessory for super easy inflation.
The ‘Peachy Pat’ design
Perfect for apartment dwellers and non-pool owners, they are a super fun and highly photogenic summer accessory too. “These pools mean you have no need for public pools, or for sucking up to those annoying and smug mates that have their own in-ground alternative, or wrestling with sun umbrellas at the beach. Blow it up, invite some mates, sip a cocktail and hey presto it’s the summer vacay in your backyard!”
The gorgeous ‘Call me Jackie’ pink terrazzo design
Kip & Co. Spring Summer 2020 range inspired by vacationing at home!
While Kip & Co.’s latest Spring/Summer collection ‘Vacay’ was designed last summer, its inspiration has since proved rather prescient. In an eery twist, it was centred around the idea of…
“It’s not a new phenomenon, but Australians really did pioneer the outdoor room,” says The Block judge and Love It or List It host Neale Whitaker. He puts it down to our lifestyle and fabulous weather. And with the open-plan interior trend having dominated for over a decade now, it’s natural that it would would eventually extend to the outdoors.
Neale on the King Living Zaza outdoor sofa
“In recent years, people have become aware of how an outdoor room can enhance their lifestyle while adding value to a home,” says Neale, who sees the backyard (or even deck) as no longer just home to a BBQ and a couple of sun loungers, but a legitimate additional ‘room’ all of its own.
“I used to live in an apartment in Sydney’s Alexandria and the deck was almost the same size as the indoor part of the home,” says Neale who, through clever design, was able to use the space for much of the year. “I designed the deck just as I had the indoors. I put a sofa out there, coffee table and art on the wall,” says Neale who found it was a wonderful way to increase the footprint of the home.
King Living Delta outdoor setting
But ensuring a seamless result, from the inside of a home to the outdoors, hasn’t always been easy; in large part due to a lack of available outdoor products. For example, once upon a time, if you favoured a Scandi aesthetic there was no way that look could continue through to your home’s outdoor area, but now it can.
This gorgeous King Living Zaza outdoor sofa (upholstered in Oceania fabric) would look just as at home indoors
“Outdoor furniture was once pretty generic. It all felt the same. There was a lot of that woven plastic furniture from the Philippines which didn’t wear very well,” says Neale, who is an ambassador for King Living. He explains that not only are outdoor furniture designs better than ever, but the outdoor fabric technologies are too. “Given that amazing strides have been made on this front, you can now replicate the style you have inside, on the outside too.”
So with summer on our doorstep, what are Neale’s top tips for creating a fabulous outdoor room?
Assess the space
First up you need to really look at the space; what are its dimensions and what sort of light and shade do you have? “An outdoor room is a wonderful idea but if you have no sun protection you will need to think about how you can live in the space,” says Neale, who suggests installing a sail cloth as a great initial step.
King Living Quay dining table and chairs
How do you live?
Next up, you need to think about how you are going to live in the space. “I would give the same advice to someone renovating their kitchen or bathroom. You should think about what you really need and don’t overspend on unnecessary items,” says Neale who cites the outdoor BBQ as a great example of an often-underutilised item. “Depending on how close your kitchen is, you may not need to invest in an elaborate and expensive BBQ,” says Neale.
King Living King Cove lounge and side table
Furniture and accessories
“Stop thinking of the backyard as a backyard and think of it as a logical extension of a living space and apply the same rules to create it. Think of it as a room without walls,” says Neale who believes that getting the furniture right is fundamental.
“Obviously everyone has to work to a budget but if you can, I think it’s worth investing in a quality big ticket item such as a comfortable and stylish sofa,” says Neale. Then pair it with a couple of stylish outdoor chairs, an outdoor rug, coffee table and even lamps if you’re adventurous. “If you’re going to use the space at night you do need to consider your light sources,” says Neale, who loves finishing off an outdoor space with an array of gorgeous pots and plants.
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Interior design expert and TV personality, Neale Whitaker, discusses his approach to trends and how to create a home that’s truly you. When it comes to styling a room, Neale…
My excitement about using our deck this spring and summer is palpable. We had the deck installed while I was in hospital giving birth to Charlie almost a year ago now (I know, where does the time go?!) and really didn’t use it as much as we could have due to having a newborn, being too permanently tired to remember we even had an outdoor area, and keeping him out of the harsh summer sun! We’ve since had a retractable sun awning installed so we’re now all set to enjoy the good weather which keeps teasing us in Sydney lately, swapping between four seasons in one week at times!
When we did the deck we got rid of the old timber pergola, which means we now need furniture which can withstand the elements (as there’s no roof to protect from the rain), so we’ve added to our existing Early Settler lounges (no longer available) with the Blake table and benches. Made of powder coated aluminium, they’re perfect for outdoor use. I love the simple but sturdy design, based on a classic picnic table, and the way the white contrasts with the grey deck. At a generous 240cm long, they’re perfect for big family get-togethers.
As with indoor spaces, I love to give the outdoor space a little refresh with the seasons, so I chose some new outdoor cushions (mixed in with a few indoor ones because why not?! They’re easy enough to bring inside or throw in a storage box) and accessories. The deck’s looking picture perfect so I’m now planning all kinds of summer entertaining!
All the aluminium furniture out here is not only super hardy, it’s really not heavy at all, which means we can move it around to suit the way we are using the space, whether that’s a party, a big family sit down dinner or Seb hurtling around on his scooter. I’ve lost count of the different furniture configurations we have already tried, and the best thing about benches is they’re a lot easier to move than eight chairs!
Speaking of eight chairs, this table can comfortably fit 10 people with four on each bench and a Cate chair at either end if needed. I love the perforated look of the back of these chairs which adds some much needed texture. They’re also stackable, which makes them practical too, and they come in other colours if you feel like adding a pop of coral or slate blue to your al fresco.
Regardless of the fact that Early Settler are a partner of ours, I can honestly say I recommend their outdoor range all the time because you really can’t beat it for value, quality and having so much variety to suit all tastes. I’m also really impressed with their more contemporary designs which are really different and not at all what you’d expect for outdoor.
WIN MY DINING PACKAGE!
For your chance to win the Blake table and bench package worth $1499, simply complete the form below by 5pm AEST on Friday 4 October 2019.
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!
With shrinking land sizes across the country, it’s no surprise that the majority of backyard design and gardening advice focuses on achieving great style in small spaces. However, thoughtful planning and design is just as important in large backyards where the extra space can be transformed into stunning landscapes that will add value to your home.
The 2018 Adbri Masonry Great Australian Backyard survey has revealed that 56% of respondents have a large backyard with plenty of room for entertaining and gardening. Yet, large backyards are often under-appreciated or lacking landscaping which results in big, boring spaces.
“With a little research, inspiration and planning, dull backyards can be converted into feature areas for eating, entertaining, relaxing and gardening,” says landscape expert and Adbri Masonry ambassador Jason Hodges.
Gardening and landscaping expert Jason Hodges
Jason’s tips for utilising space in a large backyard
Set the scene
Arguably the most important part of a landscaped garden is the place where you’ll sit back and appreciate it – usually this is the paved courtyard or patio area. The patio will usually come directly off the house and represent the transition point from indoor to outdoor living. While this is practical, large backyards provide the opportunity to get creative!
If the facade of your home needs work and looks dated, consider taking the focus away from the home by having a path off the house, leading to a feature courtyard in the centre of the space. This design draws attention away from the home and shows off the size and depth of your yard.
When it comes to thinking about the surfaces of your patio or courtyard, pavers are a great option for stepping stone paths and the entertaining pavement. “While I love stepping stones separated by pebbles or turf for paths, the foundation pavement should be a solid area which can house your dining and relaxing furniture as well as any shading or barbeque equipment,” explains Jason.
Build a children’s playground
If you have children, a large backyard provides an opportunity to create a space where kids can play safely, so take advantage and start planning your kid friendly yard.
“Try building a cubby house or teepee that can be used in summer as a shaded play area or as a mini campsite in winter,” says Jason. “I also love the idea of placing pavers in a hopscotch pattern and letting grass grow in between. The pavers will act as a pathway for your garden, as well as a fun activity for your children.”
Incorporate an entertaining area
There are countless ways to create an exceptional outdoor room to entertain and spend time with family and friends. Building a dining area with built-in seating helps to give the area structure and utilises available space. You can achieve this using Adbri Masonry’s Versawall blocks, which create vertical retaining and garden walls whilst doubling as bench seating.
“Alfresco areas tend to feature on the front cover shots of real estate listings and signboards – this is because they’re an asset that adds value to a home and where buyers picture themselves enjoying the home with family,” explains Jason. “In larger backyards, these entertaining areas can be multi-functional with cooking equipment, dining settings as well as breakout garden beds or bench seating around a feature fire pit.”
Change levels with a sunken patio
Add depth and dimension to your backyard with a sunken patio that will become a private retreat. Whether your backyard is flat or slightly sloped, you can create a sunken a patio – either DIY or with the help of a professional landscaper. Level changes immediately increase the aesthetic appeal and intimacy of a space. Try introducing steps, garden walls, terraced retaining walls or go the other way and create a sunken patio.
Beat the heat with a swimming pool
A large backyard is a great canvas for a swimming pool and creates an opportunity to value the space around it – whether it’s sunbaking, entertaining or relaxing.
“Avoid dominating the area with a large pool; try taking cue from the Island of Gods, with a Bali-inspired plunge pool that is small and cleverly landscaped. Pave the boundary with Adbri Masonry’s Euro Classic or Euro Stone that will give your pool a sleek finish, whilst providing a safe, slip resistant surface,” suggests Jason.
Summer may be over for another year but that doesn’t mean outdoor entertaining has to be off the cards. Update your outdoor settings space with these top tips from Eco Outdoor on embracing eclecticism and creating an outdoor space that is perfectly imperfect.
Creating a garden or backyard that’s as individual as your own personality, and perfectly suited to the way you live will radiate relaxed vibes, look effortless, feel comfortable and be filled with character. Whether you’re starting from scratch or adding to your existing setting, Eco Outdoor has the following tips on creating your perfectly imperfect outdoor space.
Take your time: Collect high-quality pieces over time rather than investing in a poor-quality outdoor dining set. Start with the centrepiece – the table – or a variety of chairs and seek out pieces you love and know will last.
Find a common element: Similar materials, upholstery, lines or forms can help pull together a look that’s best described as ‘eclectic elegance.’ Eco Outdoor’s Balfour and Emerson chairs have strong lines and robust forms with an H-shaped frame. But while the Balfour has a raw aesthetic with a textured, rich-brown open-rope weave seat and back and fine-sanded frame, the Emerson is more pared back with neutral-coloured olefin strapping and a teak structure.
Play with colour ways: Be adventurous with colours and shades and incorporate light and dark frames, upholstery or webbing. You can also play around with the type of seating you use; high stools, low seats, dining chairs, armchairs and footstools provide plenty of possibilities for mixing and matching.
Choose lightweight pieces for flexibility: Light and portable furniture is a versatile option for a variety of outdoor settings and uses.
Get multifunctional pieces doing double duty: Incorporating pieces that can serve as seating and tables as needed can help save money, while providing greater flexibility. The Turon collection offers old-school industrial style and its stool can double as a side table or provide a convenient option for accommodating more people around the dining table.
Buy pieces that can be easily stored away: It’s always handy to have a few extra chairs stored away, should you need them, and you don’t need to sacrifice style for convenience.
Tie it together with colour or pattern: Cushions and accessories can add accents to an outdoor setting, and choosing a consistent palette or style will help create that perfectly imperfect look.
Eco Outdoor’s number one tip for mixing and matching is that there are no rules. Mixing and matching is about creating the perfect outdoor setting…for you.
For more information of the Eco Outdoor range, visit an Eco Outdoor store, view the selection online at www.ecooutdoor.com.auor call1300 13 14 13
Alfresco living is a widely celebrated aspect of the Australian lifestyle, so whether you’re happiest throwing a dinner party or prefer nothing more than a quiet drink watching the sun go down, your balcony offers the perfect space to enjoy your own city oasis.
Our resident expert Charlie Albone, and his stylist wife Juliet Love, have teamed up with leading developer Mirvac to help Australians create their ultimate outdoor space this autumn. So to help get your balcony looking bespoke and beautiful for 2015, Charlie and Juliet have pulled together their top landscaping and styling tips for the perfect outdoor space.
Charlie’s top balcony landscaping tips
Green walls get the green thumbs up
It’s no secret that vertical gardens, otherwise known as green walls, are a gardening trend on its way up. Aside from their aesthetic appeal, the concept of a green wall makes them suitable for any balcony size as they require very little space. They also have a positive effect on the environment as the increased green space within the urban environment helps reduce the Urban Heat Island Effect.
Weathering the conditions
Densely populated suburban areas receive milder temperatures and reliable rainfall allowing you to successfully grow a wider range of plants. If your balcony gets a lot of sun then try herb gardens, grasses or succulents as they are more tolerant of heat and harsher climates.
Potting appeal
Decorative or oversized pot plants are an ideal option for adding visual appeal and breaking up a space. Potted plants dry out much quicker than plants in the ground so ensure you keep the watering up during hot dry weather.
Styling your garden
Different garden styles evoke different emotions and set a distinct mood and tone for your space. Designing your garden to reflect a particular style that resonates with you starts with choosing a combination of similar plants known as a plant palate. Contrasting styles can also be achieved with the right balance between style and layout, however only select a few elements from each to avoid a busy mismatch of styles.
Choosing the right plants
Just because your balcony is shaded doesn’t mean you can’t grow stunning plants and flowers — there are plenty of beautiful plants and flowers that thrive in shady conditions. Walking Irises, Peace Lillies, Fuschias and Bleeding Hearts are just a few plants that will still blossom in low-light areas.
Juliet top 5 outdoor style tips
Juliet and Charlie
Cushion candy
Stylish people know the power of a throw cushion or two — they can transform a space in seconds, making them a fun and easy decorating tool! From monochrome to vibrant floral prints, you can add a pop of colour and pattern to any outdoor ‘room’. Play with size and texture to achieve the most interesting look. For seasonal updates, experiment with trending colours or opt for geometric patterns for a more trans-seasonal look.
Weather-proof your furnishings
Weather-proof outdoor furniture can be both stylish and practical. When styling your outdoor area, consider the elements your outdoor furniture will be exposed to and choose materials that are built for those conditions. For wet or damp weather, choose synthetic rattan and waterproof fabrics to prevent rotting.
Don’t just look at it
With balmy nights and beautiful weather all year around, there’s no reason not to go outside. The simple addition of a table and chairs will immediately convert an outdoor area into an outdoor living area. Grouping your furniture and adding large pot plants to break up the space work well as virtual room dividers should you want a lounge that is separate to the dining area.
Balance the space
Symmetry and balance play an important role in good design and should be a priority when considering the layout of items within a space. The aim is to enhance some areas while concealing others by evenly distributing the proportions of furniture and decor. Select two or three focal points and spread them out within the space so the eye can rest on one before progressing to the other.
Dine in style every season
Make your outdoor area an entertainer’s paradise by updating your dining table accessories to reflect seasonal trends. Consider the trending colours of each season and how they fit with your existing furniture and natural surroundings. Soft lighting from practical and pretty hurricane lamps or candle holders makes dining outside a delight.
With the weather well and truly starting to sizzle, don’t leave it any later to get your garden summer and party season ready. With a few creative touches to your outdoor living area, you can transform your garden into the ultimate al fresco summer spot. Garden guru Matt Leacy of Landart Landscapes shares his tips and tricks to take the heat off your summer hosting preparations, ensuring your outdoor space is ready for those leisurely sunny afternoons.
1. Creating a shady retreat
As much as we all like to bask in the sunshine, too much sun can leave you feeling frazzled. Avoid being beaten inside by those summer rays by creating a shady haven in your garden. For those gardens without any natural shaded areas or large trees, there are plenty of affordable man-made options that will ensure you and your guests can relax comfortably and stylishly away from the suns’ glare.
A large umbrella is a great addition to any patio and can transform a seating area into a cool oasis without losing the outside ambience of your garden. Umbrellas not only offer an instant escape from the sun, they are conveniently mobile and can be set up on the lawn or poolside, and angled to banish sun glare no matter what time of day it is.
If your summer entertaining guest list is too big for an umbrella to cover, consider introducing a more substantial shaded area into your backyard. Canopies, cabanas, retractable awnings, pergolas and outdoor pavilions (some complete with full outdoor kitchens!) are all great ways of adding some protection to the back of your house and can bring a touch of style to your outdoor living area.
2. Put a shrimp on the barbie
No Australian garden party is complete without the sight, sound and smell of a barbeque in full flow. Give your friends and family an al fresco dining experience to remember throughout the summer months by creating an outdoor cooking space ideal for any occasion. Convert your outdoor area into an extension of your indoor cooking space by creating an outdoor kitchen. Choosing the right spot is key; a flat, wind sheltered area away from the main seating area is ideal and will ensure your guests are invited to explore and enjoy different zones or areas before sitting down to dine.
The other consideration is choosing an area that the barbeque and other kitchen facilities don’t dominate and become the thing that catches the eye most in the garden design. The outdoor kitchen should be a draw card and an asset to the space but not the main feature.
3. Summer showers
An outdoor shower is a fantastic addition to any summer garden, providing a great place to rinse off after a swim in the pool, trip to the beach or a spot of gardening. The al fresco shower is also part of a growing trend of people bringing the indoors outdoors, with the increasing popularity of outdoor bathrooms and kitchens.
When you’re choosing to install an outdoor shower there are a few important factors to consider to ensure you make the most of your shower come rain or shine. The best outdoor showers take into account the beauty of the natural surroundings as well as practicality. If you have a swimming area you may wish to set it up poolside. If you want the shower for everyday use, it may be wise to install it within close proximity of the house, and where you can also enjoy privacy. Proximity to the house may also remove any potential issues with plumbing.
As with all elements of garden design, it’s important to have an outdoor shower or bathroom work as part of the overall garden design. Keep in mind the multifunctional use of the space. By using natural stone and timber in the design and having plants around the area to create a natural privacy shield, the shower can integrate with the surrounds, not dominate it.
4. Sunshine proof
It’s important to ensure your outdoor furniture and finishings can withstand the harsh Aussie rays. When purchasing those comfy additions to your outdoor space look for good quality and outdoor specific fabrics that will not fade out after one summer. Moreover, with the unreliable weather forecasts you also want to choose a fabric that won’t have you running outside every time there’s a drop of rain. Everything should be marine grade and the sponge used should be free draining so it can be sat on a short time after it has been raining.
Durable decking and flooring should also be a focus when getting gardens summer ready. Considering the desired look for the space and the practicality of your chosen material could make all the difference. Count on a dense limestone for example, to keep cool under your feet during the hot summer months. While timber may require a little maintenance, it adds an organic feel to a space that can look less harsh than other stone finishes.
5. Light it up
Show off your creation morning, noon and night. Incorporating the right amount of lighting in all the right places can drastically transform your garden’s atmosphere. Look to illuminate the key features of your landscape. This could be a striking tree, running waterfall, pool area or pathway. Use recessed lights in the timber for example, to add a new dimension to your backyard.
I like to use lighting as a design feature in gardens, on everything from statement plantings to water features. It not only provides a functional use come evening time, but can create an amazing ambience and set the mood when done properly.
6. The practicalities
Once all the design elements are determined, some important maintenance is necessary to ensure your garden is summer ready. Replanting gardens suffering from neglect is much more expensive than paying for ongoing maintenance. I’m a big believer in outsourcing garden maintenance if you know your lifestyle won’t allow you to stay on top of it.
People spend a lot of money getting gardens designed and installed and then I often see them neglect their investment. Weekly or even monthly maintenance is a small outlay in the scheme of things, and it helps ensure you maximise the leisure time you have to spend in your outdoor space, whilst noticing a huge difference in your gardens healthiness and vibrancy. This ranges from installing a reliable drip watering system, if you know when the weather warms up you won’t have the time to devote to watering your plants, to mulching to retain water, weeding and pruning.
Outdoor furniture is an essential part of Australian living, whether it’s for a cosy balcony, urban courtyard, expansive deck or stylish pool surround. King Furniture offer their five tips for finding the perfect balance of durability, style and comfort when considering a new outdoor setting. Here’s what you should be asking…
How will the furniture be used? Alfresco dining, weekend relaxing, or family and friend get-togethers? Modular furniture provides the option to reconfigure seating to suit each occasion.
Are frames and fittings made for outdoor conditions? The best outdoor furniture is completely constructed using marine grade materials, which can withstand temperature fluctuations, salt water, wind and rain and offer superior corrosion resistance. Waterproof cushion covers, vents in seating and meshed storage areas also help to release water from rain and poolside splashes to prevent mildew.
Will the fabric last? Look for fabrics containing UV stabilisers as they will resist fading from sunlight. This also assists in water repellency, allowing water drops to run off the surface and prevent soaking through fibres; making it quick to dry. King Furniture is launching a new outdoor fabric called Cabana, which has an additional waterproof backing that creates a barrier, making it completely waterproof.
Is maintenance easy? Materials that are coloured all the way through, rather than coated on the surface, will look new for longer with minimal maintenance.
What extra features are available? Other attractivedesign options and accessories include in-built storage for cushions and towels, optional side tables and umbrellas for shade.
Advances in outdoor materials and fabrics mean there is no need to sacrifice style and comfort for durability. A new setting should look good and feel luxurious, transforming outdoor spaces into desirable places to live and lounge.
— King Furniture are an award-winning Australian furniture brand, famous for designing and manufacturing contemporary furniture since 1977.
So it turns out Jamie Oliver isn’t just a culinary guru, rather my all time favourite chef also has a design eye, with his new range of barbecues, outdoor furniture and dinnerware set to arrive in Australia next month.
Being stocked exclusively at Masters Home Improvement, the range will feature the Jamie Oliver PRO four and six-burner hooded barbeques, the Jamie Oliver fire pit outdoor setting and melamine dinnerware sets, perfect for Aussies who love outdoor entertaining.
“Cooking outside in the sunshine is one of life’s great pleasures, and what better excuse to get grilling and enjoy an al fresco feast than the gorgeous Aussie summer?” asks Jamie. “I’m excited Masters are bringing my beautiful barbecues, outdoor furniture and tableware to Aus – they make cooking up a storm as quick, easy and delicious as possible, whether it’s a speedy cook-up with friends or a big garden party for the whole family.”
The Jamie Oliver PRO barbeques are packed with practical features, including a stainless steel hood, double insulated doors, warming racks and castor wheels for easy mobility. The stylish fire pit outdoor setting includes an interchangeable charcoal grill and ice bucket recessed into the centre of the table, for grilling or chilling drinks.
The Jamie Oliver range will be available in selected Masters stores nationally from November while stocks last. For more information on the range and to locate your nearest Masters store, visit their website or call 1300 337 707.
Winter doesn’t need to mean hiding indoors wrapped permanently in a blanket. Whilst those days are definitely nice, having an outdoor space for entertaining despite the weather is something most of us desire. Embracing the cooler season can be hard, but with the right outdoor area, a crackling fire and cosy scenery, you can fight that urge to hide away.
Source: Houzz. Click through here.
Step outside your comfort zone, stop letting winter cramp your style and check out these super hot tips to make your outdoor area the perfect living space – all year round.
1. Create a cosy setting
A well-planned outdoor area should involve a cosy setting and a purpose. Clever designs, low-maintenance materials and a luxurious homely feeling will ensure both you and your guests feel comfortable. Nowadays, outdoor living is designed to reflect the interior space so you want it to maintain a similar style. For an outdoor space to feel truly cosy, it’ll need to give the sense that it’s a room. Focus on a palette that’s restrained, yet warm and incorporate the principals behind designing a sociable living space.
2. Provide protection from the elements
If you’re serious about having an outdoor living space suitable for entertaining all year round, it’s an absolute must that adequate protection is provided. There’s nothing comfortable about sitting outside in the rain, strong winds or extreme cold so having a versatile patio will shield you from harsh elements throughout the year.
Especially in winter, every day brings unpredictable weather and this can be damaging to your furniture. Dome patios provide the perfect balance between an attractive feature and outdoor protection, creating the perfect atmosphere for you and your guests. If you’re looking to extend you existing gable patio area, Hip Ends are ideal for design flexibility and offer a convenient way to enjoy outdoor entertaining regardless of the weather.
3. Incorporate a spark of fire
There’s something pretty spectacular about fire that not only captivates us, but creates a space that is warm, cosy and inviting. Incorporating a spark of fire into your outdoor area, whether it is a fire pit table or a fireplaces, can add an attractive focal point for the space whilst keeping you and your guests toasty. Use the fire as a gathering point and encourage everyone to sit around and toast marshmallows. When the weather turns warm again, a fire pit table can still be used to hold drinks and snacks.
Source: Houzz. Click through here
Once you have a spark of fire in place, complement with a water feature to promote relaxation and bring in a cool dimension of tranquillity. If the space permits, consider building a small garden pond to fill with fish and a waterfall to create an exotic feel. Water features or small fountains can also be sufficient.
4. Brighten those gloomy days with colour
Winter can definitely be a dull mood changer so add a touch of excitement with colours that are bold, bright and daring. Playful colours like yellows, blues and reds will fit beautifully on the background of outdoor earthy tones and colourful accessories will transform the space into a little piece of tropical paradise.
Think colourful potted plants, brightly patterned hammocks and cushions for your outdoor furniture. As vibrant hues and lively designs become incorporated into outdoor décor, your mood is lifted and the space is jazzed up with an element of fun.
5. Choose the right furniture
Whilst a good patio will provide protection against the harsh elements, it’s still vital you invest in outdoor products that can withstand the weather. Choosing the right furniture can give you the opportunity to reflect your personality, have some creative fun and establish a space that is comfy and convenient for entertaining.
You want items that’ll last the distance and provide extensive comfort for years to come. Look for pieces that can give your outdoor space that ‘wow’ factor by adding depth, flair and colour. Good quality is essential, think of your outdoor products as an investment, and consider maintenance requirements and rust-resistant properties.
When choosing the right outdoor furniture, take into consideration its function and purpose, comfort and construction, design consistency and durability, colour schemes, cost, size and shape. Furniture that can serve more than one purpose will not only make life easier for you, but it’ll free up extra space for other items like lighting that can complete the look.
6. Keep entertaining
Taking good care of you outdoor space will ensure it’s perfect for entertaining in all year round. A good outdoor living area will keep the action going, despite what the weather brings in so make sure you’re using the space as best you can.
For those that want to channel their inner chef, this can mean bringing the heat from the inside kitchen, outside. Outdoor kitchens are booming in popularity thanks to cooking shows and the availability of new recipes everyone wants to try. People are being more creative with their cooking, and the convenience of an outdoor kitchen makes this easier to show off those new skills, experiment and entertain. Typically, the grill is the heart of any true outdoor kitchen so make sure you have the right equipment.
Source: Houzz. Click through here.
To add to that entertaining atmosphere, be sure to create a little drama with the right lighting. Not just a safety consideration, adequate lighting will accent your outdoor space and make that beautifully designed landscape and attractive elements stand out.
Make your yard look stunning at night by layering lights and learning to combine ambient lighting. If you’re after a soft, cosy glow, keep lighting around the house pointing downwards. Illumination in trees and spotlights around the pool and deck area will create a romantic, soft glow that’ll make the space inviting.
– Marcus Fulker is managing director of Great Aussie Patios – Perth’s leading patio builders with a solution for every outdoor space.
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.
