When it comes to creating your dream home, always remember that the outside is just as important as inside when designing the perfect space. Alfresco living is a fantastic way to make the most of your home, allowing you to enjoy the outdoors while entertaining or relaxing with family. Find out how to design the best outdoor alfresco area to enjoy all year round.
The best alfresco areas seamlessly blend the indoors with the outdoors, allowing you to entertain and enjoy your home without the need for strictly defined spaces. Design your outdoor entertainment space to connect directly to the open plan living area of your home, so your family and guests can easily roam from one section to the other.
Choose doors that can be folded back or fully retracted to open up the space, such as sliding doors or concertinas. Having the same floor heights (without a step down to go outside) can also enhance the sensation of flow.
Source: Sherridon Homes, Bellevue 29 display in Plumpton
Your alfresco area should be a place to relax and unwind. Think about creating a calming mood with furnishings that are of a similar style to your indoor décor, but with a more relaxed vibe. Outdoor furniture should be hardy enough to withstand the elements and also outdoor use – for example, you want an outdoor couch that you can sit on even if you have wet bathers from a swim in the pool.
For those who love to entertain in their alfresco area, an outdoor kitchen is a must have. It’s the perfect way to bring the party outside and prevent anyone from getting stuck in the regular kitchen preparing food while everyone else has a good time.
The size and functionality of your outdoor kitchen will depend on how you want to use it. For example, a simple barbeque and bench space might suffice for your outdoor cooking needs. Others will enjoy the use of a full sink, space for appliances, and an extra fridge for easy access to food and drink.
The beauty of an alfresco area is that you get to enjoy the outdoors while still benefitting from the comforts of home. To enhance this outdoor experience, think about the ways that your garden and landscaping complement your alfresco zone. A green wall or a collection of pots scattered around can liven up the space and make it feel like a little oasis within your home.
Source: Bentley Homes, Caledonia 400 display in Truganina
Finally, it’s vital that you think about the ways that the weather and climate where you live with affect your use of your alfresco area. An outdoor entertainment space is only worthwhile if it can be used all year round. To ensure that you can continue to love your alfresco zone even when it’s raining or windy, consider shutters or retractable awnings.
For the summertime, invest in shade cloths to partially protect the area from the sun and allow kids to play without worrying about sunburn. An outdoor fireplace creates great ambience and warms the area in winter, while ceiling fans can keep you cool in the warmer months.