It is no surprise that Australians love the great outdoors but for all you home bodies out there, the great outdoors may translate to something along the lines of pottering in the garden, having a BBQ, reading a book in the sun and entertaining on the deck or patio.
Let’s take a look at some key elements that will help create the perfect outdoor space!
1. Furniture
Depending on the size of your outdoor space there are potentially endless options for outdoor furniture.
Outdoor dining tables come in fixed and extendable lengths. Extendable dining tables have made a recent come back and provide excellent versatility. Perfect for larger gathering (think Christmas, birthdays and holidays) but small enough to not take up loads of room when the extension is not being used.
Outdoor bean bags are a great flexible piece that can be easily moved around to other outdoor areas. They are available in a wide range of bright colour and interesting shapes and can really add the fun factor. Perfect for informal additional seating and beloved by kids and teenagers.
Individual lounge chairs or compact two seater lounges are fantastic for small spaces. Folding chairs are also a great option for tight or multipurpose areas. Opt for lounges that have comfortable cushioning and that are shaped for comfort.
Swinging chairs are a wonderful option for added relaxation and can be overhead fixed or free standing. They can be a single chair or swinging lounge for two or more people. Add patterned cushions and pops of colour to create interest and coziness.
Handy Hint:
When selecting furniture ensure that it is designed to withstand the elements and you are prepared to keep up the required maintenance (if any).
2. Rugs
Outdoor rugs have really come into their own in recent years with clever materials being used that can withstand prolonged exposure to harsh outdoor environments. An outdoor rug will really define the space you are creating and can add beautiful texture, pattern and colour.
3. Lighting
Add the wow factor with outdoor lighting! It creates a mood, elegance and provides safety. You want to add lighting not only to your immediate outdoor area but also its surrounds. Why not string festoon or fairy lights from your fence or scatter lanterns around the edge of the deck or patio. Light some candles for tabletops. Solar lights are the perfect set and forget lighting solution and can help illuminate pathways or define other outdoor features.
4. Plants
It sounds obvious, but potted plants are a great way to create an inviting space. Think of things like beautiful potted lemon trees, dwarf conifers or masses of small bright flowers to really lift your outdoor space. And if you maybe don’t posses one of those green thumbs, artificial plants have come a long way in terms of realistic appearances and availability.
Happy styling!
Gabrielle
About the Author: Gabrielle Towns is a Launceston based Interior Designer with over 10 years’ experience. She works closely with both residential and commercial clients to create beautiful, considered spaces. A lover of all things art, architecture and design, Gabrielle has extensive experience across project management, client communication and interior finish selections.
