By Kylie Harding
No matter where you live in Australia, we all love the idea of entertaining outside. Whether you have a balcony, courtyard or a full backyard, the key to creating a space you’ll enjoy year-round is thoughtful planning and a few smart design choices.
Decide how you’d like to use the space
Do you have young children who want to ride their tricycles around? Do you love hosting family and friends, or are you a couple looking for a quiet place to unwind? Deciding how you’ll use your outdoor area will guide every decision—from flooring and furniture to whether you need a roof, heating or cooling, and what finishes and fittings will work best. This is also the time to plan for practicalities such as power points, lighting, and plumbing for water or gas.
Bring the inside out
Your outdoor area should feel like an extension of your home. Mirroring your interior style outside creates flow and connection. If you have a soft, neutral palette indoors, stick with similar tones outdoors. If you love colour, let it continue outside too. Extending your flooring—such as tiles or timber—into the outdoor area creates a seamless transition. Glass doors that slide or fold open will also help blur the boundaries between indoors and out, creating a beautiful sense of space.
Give me shelter
Having some form of roof or cover will ensure you can use your outdoor space all year round—rain, hail or shine. Options range from simple sail shades to adjustable louvred roofs, catering to every style and budget. Side blinds can also help protect from rain or harsh sun, creating a true outdoor room that’s comfortable in any season.
Accessorise
Pot plants, cushions and candles add warmth and character. Choose heavy pots that won’t topple in the wind and opt for outdoor-friendly fabrics to prevent mould or fading. Practical additions like heaters, ceiling fans, speakers, TVs or even pizza ovens can turn your outdoor area into a space you’ll actually use.
Creating an outdoor space you can enjoy year-round is about more than furniture or plants—it’s about designing a setting that invites you to slow down, connect and enjoy every season. With a few thoughtful touches, your outdoor area can become the most loved “room” in your home.
Happy styling,
Kylie
@styledtosell
