Create a fire pit
A firepit entices you outside after dark and creates a focal point when entertaining. To set up the zone, look for a spot on your property which is flat and a safe distance away from the house and flammable materials. An inexpensive foundation is compacted road base topped in gravel, while timber off-cuts are a great casual seating option. Shop around to find a centrepiece which is the right scale and style for the area. A wonderful rustic option is a durable rust cast iron bowl.
Incorporate a breakfast bar
With a place to perch with a drink, you’re far more inclined to use an outdoor area. A simple addition to a deck is a slab of timber affixed to a balustrade teamed with high stools to create an idyllic spot to for a casual bite to eat or a sundowner, over-looking the surrounding nature.
Boost greenery
There’s nothing better than having your very own green oasis, you can enjoy whether indoors or outside. To create a lush outlook, layer garden beds with a variety of plant types with an interesting mix of textures, leaf shapes and tones. If you’re on a budget, look to propagate what you’ve already got. “My landscaper also used small plant stock, which saved costs and it’s nice to see everything grow over the years,” says House to Home Beautiful's Saul Myers (pictured above), who used cuttings from existing plants including Silver Lady Fern, Peace Lilly and Native Ginger in his beach house garden.
Seamless doors
A great way to bring a sense of the outdoors in is with wide doors which open seamlessly to views and garden areas. “There’s a huge range of external door options to suit the architectural style of your home,” explains Marcel Harfouche, Doors Plus director. “Bifold doors can function like a removable wall allowing indoor and outdoor spaces to merge and offer uninterrupted views of your patio or garden while filling your home with refreshing natural light.”
Curb appeal
A great entrance door can also enhance street appeal. Doors Plus' Marcel says a great option is a Pacific Ash timber door teamed with SafeGlass™ panels (below). “Glass panels makes a huge difference to the atmosphere of your entrance, as it invites plenty of natural light into your home. Our large front doors are also exceptionally practical when it comes to moving furniture or large household goods without damaging your possessions, door frame, or yourself,” explains Marcel.
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