Photography: Louise Roche
While we haven’t permanently moved into our gardens just yet, alfresco spaces might soon need their own floor plans as we increasingly embrace multi-zone living. “People are happy spending more time at home and want to make their outdoor space as inviting and multi-purpose as possible, even with a small footprint,” says Anna Williams, director of Your Beautiful Home.
“More people are asking for a variety of zones in the backyard; destinations that create a sense of occasion in different areas and for different purposes.”
Whether your dream is a sunken fire pit or cool cabana, our experts provide you with all the inspiration you need to plan, create and decorate your own outdoor living spaces.
Create an outdoor kitchen
Promising extra cooking space, more mingling with your guests and no cooking odours inside, an outdoor kitchen elevates entertaining and turns everyday mealtimes into social occasions.
“Begin by looking at the available space, your everyday lifestyle and how much you entertain,” says Toby France, director of Exterior Architecture. “Be realistic about what you’ll use in an outdoor kitchen. Just a simple barbecue and bench space? Or everything from a fridge to a teppanyaki grill?”
Next, Toby says to consider design and materials. “Robust and low-maintenance materials, such as poured concrete, stone and stainless steel, withstand the elements and suit the ‘solid’ looking aesthetic of an outdoor kitchen.”
Remember to ask professionals about drainage, fire safety, minimum clearances and ventilation.
Plan your pool house
“Nothing embraces summer living like a pool house,” says architect Adam Hampton, director of Hampton Architecture. “Primarily a place to relax and entertain connected to the garden or swimming pool, they often have a flexible, open-plan layout to serve a range of uses, such as guest accommodation.”
Typically, a pool house complements your home and relates to your landscape and pool setting. Adam suggests elevating a structure with “tall ceilings, stacked doors, retractable awnings and shutters”.
Look to resort-style living for interior inspiration, suggests Anna. “Light, with timber accents and neutral, textured fabrics, tropical fans and soft lighting. Think about storage and fixtures like speakers, too. Essentially, create a gorgeous destination in your garden and make it feel like an occasion to go out there.”
Built-in joinery and fold-down beds help to maximise space.
Add a cabana
“Cabanas are great for extending the use of your outdoor space when it’s hot, providing privacy and shade, particularly by a pool,” says Toby. Practicalities aside, cabanas conjure visions of cocktails and the exclusivity of a hired daybed at a chic resort.
“You can create a shaded eating area, but more often it’s about relaxing,” explains Anna. “A large daybed always hits the spot, as do hanging chairs or bean bags that are easily moved. Layer them with outdoor cushions and add wall lights. Think about the things on holidays that make you smile – we’re trying to recreate that.”
The most common cabana design has three sides, and they are mainly built using masonry or timber.
Splash out on a shower
The backyard bliss of an outdoor shower isn’t just for coastal homes or pools. A refreshing duck under one on a hot day? Yes please. And with cold showers now part of our daily wellness routine (or still on our to-do list), where better to soak up the feel-good vibes of nature while boosting your mood, circulation and energy?
“Once you’ve considered water access, it’s about location and look,” says Toby. “For instance, do you want a ‘feature’ or simply an outdoor shower by the gate to wash sandy kids?”
In terms of aesthetics, consider a luxe metal finish and a design style for your outdoor shower that complements your home. “To create an attractive space, look to planting and a backdrop,” adds Toby.
“If you used a beautiful tile elsewhere, repeat that or try weatherboard, which works with many styles, then dress it up with towel hooks and a shelf.”
Lush greenery will bring the finishing tropical touches to your outdoor shower.
Pop in a fire pit
“As our concept of outdoor living expands, a designated fire-pit zone has become another outdoor ‘room’ where friends and family can gather,” says Adam. “You don’t need a lot of space and they’re ideal for underused corners of the garden, adding focus and a meaningful area.”
While a sunken zone isn’t necessary, Toby says it’s ideal for fire pits. “It has a more intimate and immersive feel, especially with in-built seating, and also offers protection from the wind.”
As for fire-pit planning? Confirm requirements with your local council and check if your proposed fire pit is a safe distance from your home and other flammable structures. Choose materials and designs according to their specifications, then weigh up the various heat sources, from dry seasoned wood to ethanol.
Shop the best outdoor furniture
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Soho Director’s Chair $230.00 $184 at Provincial Home Living
King Cove Reclining Sun Lounge from $2,930 $1,890 at King Living
Keira Outdoor Swivel Egg Chair $799 $746 at Harvey Norman
Luna Outdoor Dining Chair $774
Malmo Outdoor Lounge Chair $3,645
Outdoor Pier Round Coffee Table $3,195
Shop the best outdoor accessories
Hudson Bar Cart in Olive $359
The Bolster Pillow in Laurens Navy Stripe $129 at Business & Pleasure
Jardin Patio Umbrella $849 at Basil Bangs
Kyla Australian Cotton Pocket Beach Towel $99.95 at Country Road
Lorne Jug $37.46
Aruba Scallop Edge Stripe Soft Green Cushion $39
