Tag: patio

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DIY Outdoor & Exteriors

Landscaping big yards: expert tips to avoid boring!

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.

More on how Adbri Masonry can help create your ultimate outdoor space

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DIY Expert Tips RENO ADDICT

How to seal pavers to keep them looking their best

Photo by Jacqui Turk

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.

Photo by Jacqui Turk

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!
Clean and ready to seal!

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.

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Jen's reno Outdoor & Exteriors

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:

BEFORE

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!

DURING: Cutting pavers

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!

DURING

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?

AFTER!

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!

AFTER

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.

AFTER: This chillout area is getting so much use!

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.

BEFORE 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

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DIY Expert Tips Outdoor & Exteriors RENO ADDICT

What to consider when building a fire pit in your back yard

Who doesn’t love sitting next to a fire on a chilly night with friends and family roasting marshmallows? Before you build a pit, it’s wise to weigh the pro’s and con’s of having one as it’s so so so important to get this right not only for appearance and function, but more importantly safety.

One reason for a fire pit’s appeal? We believe a fire pit can extend back yard use through autumn and winter. Gone are the days of outdoor entertaining only through the spring and summer months with a great barbecue and pool party – fire pits are the way to go in the cooler months!

Here’s what you should consider before planning a fire pit and dreaming of cool, moonlit nights roasting marshmallows.

Types of fire pits

Ok, so there are generally four types of fire pits that you can choose from:

1. Chimineas

These fire pits traditionally have closed sides, with an opening on the front and a chimney on top. Chimineas are easy to find, sold at most home and garden stores, and are full of style. The ceramic material used to build chimineas can be painted, adding a pop of colour to your outdoor space. Chimineas are usually pretty heavy and are not meant to be moved around. Their design is helpful in keeping smoke out of your guests’ eyes.

Chiminea fire pit

Photo credit curbly.com

2. Wood burning fire pits

A wood burning fire pit is like having a campfire right in your very own backyard. They provide warmth, the crackle of wood, and real smoke all while keeping the fire completely contained. There are a variety of different types of wood burning fire pits you should be aware of:

  • Outdoor fireplace: An outdoor fireplace, whether a portable one or a built-in design, will greatly enhance your patio.  The design is usually similar to an indoor fireplace.
  • Brick or stone fire pit: This is basically an easy DIY project. Brick or stone fire pits can be built by using cinder blocks, stones, or bricks from almost any local hardware store.

Outdoor fire pit

Photo credit mydomainehome.com.au

3. Natural gas fire pits

This fire pit is a permanent fixture in your backyard. One of the best things about natural gas fire pits is that they never run out of fuel. Here are a few different ways to design this type of fire pit:

  • Sunken design: A sunken natural gas fire pit is built down into the patio or ground. You need to be especially cautious around these designs, as the flames are close.
  • Square, round, or tabletop design: Design your natural gas fire pit to be raised above the patio with stone, brick, or copper designs, among others. They make a beautiful addition to the space.

Sunken gas fire pit

Photo credit renoguide.com.au

4. Gel fuel fire pits

Gel fuelled fire pits are the perfect way to add ambiance and intrigue to your backyard. The gel is clean and burns without producing a scent or smoke. They are also extremely versatile and can be moved almost anywhere in your backyard. Here are a couple different types of gel fuel fire pits:

  • Gel fuelled logs: You can purchase gel fuelled logs to place in any fire pit design. They create the real look and feel of a fire while completely concealing the gel fuel holders inside the logs.
  • Tabletop fireplace: For those who want a small fire in the backyard, consider a gel fuelled tabletop display. These can be easily moved indoors or out, and add a great display to the outdoor table.

Gel fuelled fire pit

Photo credit: bgh.com

Check building codes for proper speculations and regulations

Before building a fire pit, check the building codes in your area to get the proper specs and regulations. Choose a spot that is away from your house and away from any low-hanging trees or other structures. Take precautions when digging holes, so that you don’t hit utility lines, so in Australia make sure you call Dial Before You Dig.

How much you are willing to spend?

Costs can be as low as $100 if you plan for a small fire pit. This means buying your own stones and digging the hole yourself or if you purchase a simple unit at a big box store. It certainly can also go up to several thousand dollars, especially when seating is added.

Whether it is permanent or portable?

Do you want a fire pit that is built in — a focal point in the yard — or something that’s lightweight and potentially portable, so you can take it where you want your gathering?

For a built-in design, you generally want to match materials in the garden or house. You can do a DIY job and assemble materials yourself or customise one with a landscape professional or contractor.

The options for portable fire pits are equally varied. There are copper or stainless steel bowls that are usually lighter, but heavier cast iron bowls also do a nice job of radiating heat.

Choose the fuel type: wood or gas

While there are alternate fuel types like gel fuels, wood or gas seem to be the most common choices. Those who favour a true outdoor smell usually prefer burning real logs, but that requires keeping flames going and requires a steady supply of firewood.

An alternative is to use gas or propane for an instant fire—maybe even powered with a remote switch–though it’s not as hot as a wood fire and you don’t get the same crackle and smoke.

Choose the surface you would like to set your pit on

It’s best to set a set a portable fire pit atop a natural surface such as concrete, stone, gravel, brick, slate, or a fire-resistant composite. Putting it on a wood deck can be dangerous if embers fly. A permanent fire pit is typically built on a base of gravel somewhere in the back yard.

Where to set up your fire pit?

Many communities require a minimum of a 10-foot distance from your house and neighbours’ yards. Some don’t require a permit if the fire pit fits within set size requirements; others require a site inspection to make sure your proposed location is safe (away from fences, structures, overhanging branches). It’s best to check with local officials before you do anything.

How to create the right vibe and enjoy the most of your fire pit

To get the best enjoyment, consider installing outdoor lighting near the pit. Make it subtle to avoid destroying the camp-fire mood. Energy-efficient LEDs can be plugged into a nearby outlet. More importantly consider seating arrangements!

Safety first 

A fire of any kind, small or roaring big demands serious attention to safety. Consider:

  • Check wind direction before you light a fire
  • Don’t use flammable fluids (gasoline, lighter fluid) to light or relight
  • Don’t wear flammable clothing (like nylon) or any loose-fit clothing
  • Avoid using soft woods like pine or cedar, because they can “pop” and throw sparks.
  • Know how to safely dispose of ashes.

Naomi Findlay is one of our resident experts, principal of Silk Home and founder of the International Institute of Home Staging. 

Ask Naomi a question | Read all her articles for Reno Addict.

 

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Design DIY Outdoor & Exteriors RENO ADDICT

Give your patio The Block makeover

For over 10 years, us Aussies have watched the stars of The Block come up with unique decorating and renovating ideas for their spaces. The outdoor areas continue to be a highlight, but how can you replicate them in your own home?

Below you will find out how some of the items used by the Blockheads can be used to redecorate your own patio (links to The Block Shop have also been included so you can shop the look). Who knows, after you’ve completed your reno you may even be ready to sign up for the show yourself!

Ethanol fire pit

Fire Pit

Maddie and Jarrod’s (Sky High, 2013) rustic, yet modern design sense inspired them to use the Ethanol Outdoor Fire Pit. This environmentally friendly, perfectly circular dish uses bioethanol instead of traditional wood; thus, involving no smoke and no mess. It’s great for a quick setup when inviting guests over or having an impromptu outdoor romantic dinner.

Garden screen

Screen Shot 2015-05-19 at 11.29.21 am

The Block’s Karstan and Maxine (Glasshouse, 2014) used this Marakesh Outdeco Gardenscreen to outstanding effect. These screens are easy to install for privacy and/or decoration. Their contemporary design consists of geometric patterns influenced by Moroccan art. The durable high-quality garden screen is a simple way to make any backyard pop and features an 80% blackout range; thus, making it a perfect fence, wall or boundary to a patio.

Daybed and cushions

As seen in Josh and Charlotte’s Terrace (Triple Threat, 2015), this waterproof Daybed and Cushions are practical as well as aesthetically pleasing. They come in many different colours and patterns, so can easily be matched with the rest of your furniture.

Green wall

Green Walls

For a refreshing new look, Cityforest Greenwall Pockets can be installed. From the amazing herb garden used in Josh and Jenna’s kitchen (All Stars, 2013), these DIY Greenwall Pockets are simple to set up and add some purpose to your walls. Each pocket contains four pouches that can hold four-to-16 plants. Buy more and join them together to turn a bare patio wall into a luscious flowing green space.

Light panel

The Hippo Skin Light Feature Panel was used by Dale and Sophie (2012) as an outdoor lighting scheme. The stylish contemporary design of the panel added some colour and brightness to the given space. It is powder-coated in orange and comes with a tube light, opal acrylic lining and brackets for hanging.

Angelina fire pit

Featured by Josh and Jenna (2011), the Angelina Fire Pit is a rustic, yet sleek fire pit. It comes in two sizes, 85cm and 110cm, and is made from mild steel. This traditional wood-burning pit is the perfect size to create that nice glow. It’s the ideal addition to a patio that is used to entertain guests or wants a homey feel.

— Marcus is the managing director of Great Aussie Patios, Perth’s leading patio and carport builder since 2000. 

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Expert Tips

Top tips for easy patio and deck maintenance

By Marcus Fulker

With the warmer weather drawing us Aussies out of our homes and into the outdoors, now is the time to make sure your patio is in tip top shape. No matter how old your outdoor patio may be, maintaining it every year is the only way to make it last — so you can keep using it summer after summer. It’s always a good idea to sweep daily, wash yearly, and seal or polish every two to three years. Depending on whether you patio is made of stone pavers, concrete, or timber, and whether it is covered or uncovered, you will have different concerns, but whatever the case, it’s not hard to maintain your outdoor patio yourself.

Maintaining a stone paver patio

Pavers Patio - interiors addict
Source: Flickr

Weed Growth – If your outdoor patio is made of separate stone pavers placed on the ground and levelled, there will be small gaps between each paver. When it comes to grass and small plants growing up between the stones, maintaining your patio is much less of a hassle than replacing it.

If you are just installing a new stone paver patio, you can make it more difficult for plants to grow underneath it by laying a mesh weed screen before laying the pavers. If you do notice weeds growing between pavers in your outdoor patio, pull them out immediately, or use a weed killer spray to prevent regrowth. A natural, green alternative to store-bought weed killer is vinegar. Make sure that the space between the pavers is filled in with sand.

Cleaning & Stain Removal – Cleaning and sealing your patio regularly can also prevent dirt and stains from getting into the pavers, helping it to last and look fresh and new for longer. Make sure that you clean your patio prior to sealing or polishing it, or you will seal the dirt in.

To clean and remove dirt or stains, first try pressure washing or water from a hose and a scrub brush on a handle. If you have tough stains, you may need to use chemicals to remove them. Make sure to use protective gear, and try to use natural materials or diluted chemicals when possible to avoid killing any plants around your patio, or contaminating the ground.

Maintaining a concrete outdoor patio

Concrete Patio - interiors addict
Source: Flickr

If you are sweeping your concrete patio daily, it should not require much maintenance except for a twice-yearly cleaning to get rid of the dirt build-up, similar to a stone paver patio. Try pressure washing, or using a pressure nozzle on your hose and a broom or scrub brush. If you need to remove stains, use eco-friendly chemicals to avoid damaging your backyard. After washing and removing stains, apply an annual layer of paint or a sealant to protect your patio from the elements.

Concrete can be easier to maintain than pavers because it is one large piece, but if you do have cracks, make sure to repair them as soon as possible to prevent plant growth and further decay of your patio.

Maintaining a timber deck

Deck Patio - interiors addict
Source: Flickr

If you have a wooden deck instead of a patio, it still needs to be well maintained in order to look its best and last as long as possible.

  • Keep your deck clean and dry. Sweep it regularly, and pressure wash all vertical and horizontal surfaces yearly. You can use diluted laundry detergent or diluted, eco-friendly bleach to wash your timber deck if you have stains. Be careful not to leave cleaner on the timber for too long, or to pressure wash one spot too long as you could damage the wood.
  • When it comes to timber patios, you will need to inspect the wood for signs of rot, loose or protruding nails and splinters. Replace those pieces that could be a danger to you and your family and sand away areas that may have splinters – which typically means the railings.
  • Protect your deck with a deck stain or sealant designed for timber outdoor patios. Paints, stains and sealants can help protect your patio from damage caused by use, water, temperature fluctuations and more.

— Marcus Fulker is the managing director of Great Aussie Patios, Perth’s leading patio builder and patio design company since 2000.

Categories
Expert Tips

How to ‘winterise’ your outdoor space

By Marcus Fulker

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.

14-07-2014 11-57-24 AM
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.

14-07-2014 11-59-02 AM
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.

14-07-2014 11-56-13 AM
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.

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Interiors Addict

Take your entertaining outside

The Terrace bench

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
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.

Continue reading “Take your entertaining outside”

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Interiors Addict

Tait Outdoor turns 21 and offers 21% off everything for 21 days!

Australian owned and 100% Australian made, Tait is one of Australia’s longest standing designer-manufacturers of indoor/outdoor furniture. To celebrate 21 years in business, Tait is offering 21% off all products, including orders, for 21 days, starting on Tuesday (21 May).

Jak & Jil by Tait

With a total of 20 different ranges – all designed, prototyped and manufactured in-house – Tait’s versatile furniture options can be found right across the country, in home, hospitality and commercial settings. In my opinion, they’re some of the coolest outdoor pieces around.

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