Outdoor living Australia: Design tips for your dream backyard.
From alfresco kitchens to sustainable designs, these outdoor living trends in Australia will help you create the ultimate backyard oasis for you and your family.
Outdoor living is synonymous with the Australian way of life, particularly in cities and towns where the sun shines more often than not. From BBQs on a warm day to garden parties for celebrations big and small, we eagerly embrace any opportunity to dine and relax outside with loved ones.
But these outdoor spaces are more than a spot to unwind and connect – a well-thought-out outdoor living space can elevate the functionality, style, and value of your home.
As homeowners seek innovative and sustainable ways to blur the lines between indoor and outdoor living, we're discussing the latest design trends to offer an insight into refreshing your backyard, whether it’s building a dream patio, incorporating eco-friendly features or designing an outdoor kitchen to embrace your space and boost your lifestyle.
Sustainable design.
Sustainability is a dominant topic in current and incoming outdoor living design trends, as Australians look for ways to blend eco-conscious features with modern and functional spaces.
Decks and outdoor furniture are built with recycled and responsibly sourced materials to reduce waste, and drought-resistant landscaping is seeing intentional use of Australian natives, low-maintenance greenery and efficient irrigation systems (drip lines and water tanks) to endure the harsh climate.
Strategically placed lights can create various moods (for example, fairy lights for a romantic setting) and water fountains add an interesting focal point, all of which can be powered by solar panels to minimise energy use. These small changes can reduce your environmental footprint while creating a beautiful and inviting outdoor space.
Alfresco kitchens.
There’s nothing like dining outdoors in Australia, and from built-in BBQs to full-service kitchens complete with fridges, sinks, and pizza ovens, alfresco kitchens are rising in popularity thanks to the open-air setup perfect for entertaining.
As versatile as they are stylish, hosts can cook and socialise with guests while enjoying the beautiful weather, and thoughtful touches like retractable awnings, heaters and ample lighting mean the area can be utilised year-round. Privacy screens, hedges and outdoor curtains will ensure your alfresco kitchen feels like a safe and secure oasis.
It’s worth noting materials need to be tough and weather-resistant, able to withstand heavy rain, harsh sun and strong winds. Stainless steel, stone and treated wood are safe and durable options.
Multi-functional spaces.
Instead of limiting your outdoor space to one activity, multi-functional spaces cater to the increased demand for thoughtful design and flexibility. From cosy lounges and dining spaces to play areas for the kids, backyards are designed to adapt to your changing needs.
How do you make a space multi-functional? Modular furniture offers flexibility to rearrange seating or tables, retractable shutters create privacy and comfort on hot days and outdoor speakers and weatherproof TVs enhance the ability to entertain outdoors.
Vertical gardens and pot plants soften the space and smart outdoor technology like automated sound systems, smart lighting and app-controlled fans and heaters add a modern element. Whether you’re hosting friends, enjoying family time, or working alfresco, the area is designed to suit every aspect of a busy life.
Indoor-outdoor flow.
A defining feature of homes in Australia’s warmest spots, indoor-outdoor living creates a seamless connection between your home and backyard. By maximising natural light, timber, stone and ventilation, it takes functionality outside, while bringing natural beauty inside for an effortless and chic extension of the home.
Also known as Biophilic Design, key elements to incorporate the trend are lush greenery, natural materials and a neutral colour palette that enhance harmony, and large bi-folding doors can open an entire wall to the great outdoors.
Indoor-outdoor flow offers a practical way to embrace Australia’s love for outdoor living while adding value to any home.
Outdoor living spaces are essential to our laidback lifestyle, and these trends showcase how to make the most of them. These ideas blend style, practicality, and an appreciation for the outdoors for entertaining and play.
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