DIY: Ideas for outdoor living

Clever design with low maintenance materials and foliage can up the wow factor when creating an outdoor space. It can be easy to spruce up the chosen outside entertaining area with a few good - and simple - ideas, from adding some cushions, new lighting and shelter to starting from scratch and building a pergola and deck. Durable and stylish furnishings will complete the picture and have you basking in the great outdoors all-year round.

Sight the site

Orientation is critical to getting the most out of your outdoor space. Consider the direction of the sun - in summer you will want shade and shelter; in cooler months you will want to attract the autumn and winter sun. Will existing trees provide shade or will you need a sturdy umbrella or build a pergola? Also consider the view and privacy from your neighbours, and how windy your yard is.

A timber or stone surface will set the scene for outdoor living.

Even footing

Decking, paving or a mixture of stone and grass - the options are endless. Decking and paving are highly durable and will withstand a few hard knocks. Stylish segmental pavers can easily renew an existing outdoor barbecue or pool area. Protect the paver surface from scratches by adding padding to the bottom of the legs of chairs and the table. Sealing the floor space will also protect it from stains and the elements, says Charlie Condo from Boral Masonry. 

“To avoid rust stains on paved areas, make sure metal outdoor furniture and barbecue bases are properly covered and always clean stains before they harden or dry,” Charlie says. 

And Clinton Skeoch from Boral Timber says Blackbutt decking is another strong, versatile option that blends seamlessly with the colours and textures of outdoor environments. The experts agree that it's best to ensure the area is level before you start placing furniture and other accessories.

Sitting right

Timber is a popular choice for outdoor seating. Teak can age to a silvery hue making it ideal for those not wanting to stain and re-stain. Iron and man-made materials can offer good durability in furniture. Choose marine-grade materials, which can withstand temperature fluctuations, wind and rain as they offer superior corrosion resistance. Add some plump waterproof cushions in bright colours and take a seat for summer living. Look for fabrics with UV stabilisers as they will resist fading from sunlight. Modular furniture is a great option as the pieces can be configured to suit any space or entertaining occasion. Couches will also make for more relaxed living and entertaining. 

Triana Odone, national sales and merchandising manager from King Furniture, says the Delta Outdoor is her pick as it is a mix of fabric and weave and offers extra functionality with meshed built-in storage that will allow for air circulation to prevent mildew. “It’s ideal for stowing towels, pool toys and cushions,” Triana says. Add a table or side table for drinks and food plus an umbrella for shade and you’re just about ready to kick back and enjoy!

Create the ideal outdoor living space at home.

Under wraps

A permanent structure with overhead cover made of tin, timber or sail fabric while offering superior durability, can be limiting if you prefer to chase the sun around the yard. A sturdy, moveable market umbrella may be your choice, so opt for one that has a heavy stand and can withstand a few windy days as you don’t want the canopy blowing inside out with a slight breeze. 

Many designs come in a style that allow you to maximise floor space in the living area, such as the cantilever umbrella. Opt for fabric that offers all-weather performance, and has a 360-degree rotating base for optimal versatility and sun protection. Ensure the umbrella has a minimum 3m diameter as you don't want to skimp on shade cover. Adding a permanent marine-grade stainless-steel ceiling fan to your permanent outdoor space will help you stay cool throughout summer.

Mix porcelain and timber platters for a relaxed, rustic look.

Serving it up

With the table chosen, think food and drinks. Villeroy & Boch’s MaryAnne Fesq says wood and natural cork platters and serving boards are in this season. Mixing in white porcelain will help you create a setting that is modern yet maintains a relaxed rustic feel. On MaryAnne’s table is the Artesono Original range: "The range includes beautifully designed grazing plates and rustic pieces to present barbecued meats, grilled vegetables, pizza and antipasto, encouraging guests to help themselves,” she says. 

If a garden tea party is the norm, then go a little more delicate with teacups and teapot, but remember to add some colour to the table with vibrant shades and floral patterns. A large container filled with ice will keep drinks chilled on a hot day or balmy night.

Perfect pizza: Sweet potato, Spanish onion and goat’s cheese by Justin North.

Dishin’ it

Barbecues, spit roaster and pizza ovens are de jour for alfresco dining at home. Choose a barbecue that is suited to the number of people you are catering for: think bigger if cooking for the cricket team, while a two-burner will easily cater for a family of four. Compact barbecue units will suit courtyards or apartments, while larger outdoor kitchens are best for big decks and patios. Consider the fuel source, too, says Bunnings Warehouse’s Kristen Beer. Gas is ideal for beginners as it is easy to turn on and there’s no mess. Charcoal gives an authentic barbecue taste. “To experience the best of both worlds, use a charcoal gas grill, which uses gas to light the charcoal, providing a traditional smoky flavour without the hassle of lighting coals,” Kristen says.

A pizza oven is a versatile addition as it can be used for roasting, barbecuing, grilling, smoking and even baking, while a spit roaster is perfect for cooking big racks of lamb or beef. Darren Mercaldi, head pizzaiolo at Ladro Greville in Melbourne, says the Breville pizza oven will hit the right temperature for a delicious pizza, something domestic ovens cannot do. “It has a heating element underneath the stone and another element in the lid, creating the very high temperatures you need to crisp the crust for an authentic pizza experience every time.”

Choose a sound system that is suitable for the outside.

Party on

The party lights are up and on and the area is looking good for after-dark festivities. If you are keen to add a bit more atmosphere to the area then consider a built-in sound system with speakers that can be placed throughout the garden foliage. Music will add to your privacy and keep the noise from the neighbours at bay. Chris Henderson from Amber Technology suggests choosing a speaker system that is designed for the outdoors, and placing speakers strategically within the outdoor area will deliver equal sound that will not be disruptive to conversation. “Homeowners often use audio products that aren’t equipped for delivering high quality acoustics in an open air setting,” Chris says. “Speakers incorrectly placed can also provide uneven sound coverage, causing disruption to conversations among party guests while leaving ‘cold spots’ in other areas.” He likes the Sonance SonArray outdoor speaker as it offers an “immersive sound” and “can be used rain, hail or shine”. “Install some speakers low to the ground, within the garden, and mount others on higher levels such as tree branches or balconies," Chris adds.

Colourful crockery keeps the occasion light and relaxed.