House sizes in Australia are decreasing and homeowners are increasingly turning to the outdoors to create more space for living and entertaining.
As Australia heads into the cooler seasons, homeowners run indoors to hibernate, however with the right design choices and functional additions to backyard spaces, the country’s love for the outdoors does not need to end with summer.
Australian outdoor living design and outdoor lifestyle expert Alex Hand says that by incorporating thoughtful elements, backyards can become an extension of the home that’s just as inviting in winter as it is in summer.
“Outdoor spaces can seamlessly transition through the seasons to support entertaining, relaxing and unwinding at any time of the year,” she says.
“Yet, while outdoor living is at the heart of Australian lifestyle, many people are not making the most of their backyards outside of summer.”
Alex provides five hot tips for any homeowner wanting to extend the size of their home all year round, by a season-proof outdoor space.
Design for every season
The most successful outdoor spaces aren’t just built for warm weather, they evolve with the season. According to Alex, versatility is key.
“A well-designed outdoor space should feel like an extension of your home, not just a summer escape,” she explains.
“By considering elements like shade, shelter and climate control you can create a space that’s comfortable year-round.”
Tips for seasonal adaptability
Choose WiFi enabled outdoor blinds and roller shutters for remote control and weather preparedness, and opt for adjustable, weather-resistant blinds to reduce wind and rain.
Lean toward multi-functional furniture such as daybeds with built-in storage for blankets or fold-away tables for flexibility.
Think beyond the season: Create micro-climates
Rather than treating your backyard as one open area, Alex recommends designing micro-climates or different zones that adapt to changing conditions.
“A mix of open and sheltered areas allow you to move seamlessly between sunshine and shade, warmth and cool breezes,” she says.
Tips for creating micro-climates
Plant delicious trees that provide shade in summer but let in sunlight during winter.
Use climbing plants on trellises to create wind protection and shade naturally.
Prioritise comfort, no matter the weather
Spending time outdoors should feel effortless, and comfort is at the heart of that experience.
Alex says thoughtful details make all the difference.
“It’s all about the layers,” she says.
“Soft lighting for ambience, outdoor cushions and rugs that can withstand the elements, and heating solutions that extend the usability of your space through the cooler months.”
Tips for outdoor comfort
Add infrared outdoor heaters or fire pits to create warmth in winter.
Use weatherproof cushions and outdoor rugs to soften hard surfaces.
Incorporate LED strips lighting along pathways and seating areas for a warm and inviting glow at night.
Bring the indoors out
Outdoors spaces feel more inviting when they mirror the warmth and functionality of indoor living. Alex encourages homeowners to reimagine their backyard as an alfresco extension of their home.
“Think about how you use indoor spaces,” she says.
“Whether lounging, dining or socialising, translate that into your outdoor areas.”
Tips for alfresco living
Install built-in outdoor kitchens or portable bar carts to keep the party outside and food and drinks accessible.
Use all-weather lounge settings to create a relaxed, indoor-style seating area outside.
Introduce sheltered nooks, like corner bench with an overhead cover, for year-round retreat-style relaxation.
Plan, purpose and longevity
A well-planned outdoor space is one that evolves with your lifestyle.
Alex advises homeowners to invest in solutions that offer long-term benefits, from sustainable materials to energy-efficient shade solutions and low-maintenance landscaping.
“The vest outdoor spaces aren’t just about aesthetics, they’re about usability,” Alex says.
“A backyard that adapts to the seasons, that feels as good in winter as it does in summer, is one that you enjoy most.”
Tips for long-term outdoor living
Consider a composite decking option for durability and low maintenance.
Invest in water-efficient irrigation systems to keep gardens thriving year-round.
Incorporate artificial lawn for small patches of greenery without need for weeding and watering.
