With heatwaves, flash storms and water scarcity becoming increasingly common, the way Australians design and use their homes, including the backyard, is changing.
Australian Outdoor Living’s Alexandra Hand says outdoor spaces are now at the forefront of creating climate-resilient homes.
“We’re seeing a fundamental shift, with the backyard no longer being just about lifestyle, but also resilience,” she says.
“Our customers are asking how they can design a space that protects the family from heat, manages water efficiently, and still feels inviting and enjoyable.”
Recent climate data underscores the urgency. The Bureau of Meteorology reports that eight of Australia’s ten hottest years on record have occurred in the last decade, while CSIRO data indicates a rise in extreme rainfall events.
According to Alexandra, these pressures are driving demand for shade, water-wise landscaping and durable, low-maintenance materials that can endure harsher conditions. She outlined key trends defining the climate-ready backyard.
Smarter shading and cooling: Adjustable outdoor blinds, retractable awnings and insulated pergolas or verandahs provide protection during heatwaves and storms. Strategic planting for canopy cover can also lower ground temperatures by several degrees.
Water resilience: Native plants, drought-tolerant or artificial lawns and sensor-based irrigation reduce dependence on mains water. Permeable paving helps manage flash floods by allowing water to filter back into the soil.
Durable materials like composite decking, UV-stabilised blinds and reinforced structures are increasingly selected for their ability to withstand higher temperatures, heavy rain and sun exposure.
Alexandra says these trends are guiding home owners toward products that can endure unpredictable weather while remaining functional and stylish.
“We’ve seen strong interest in our next-generation artificial turf, The Grange, which stays up to 20% cooler than traditional artificial lawns while offering no-water, low-maintenance benefits,” she says.
“Designing for climate resilience doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort or style. The smartest backyards we’re building are also the most liveable, making it shaded, cooler and easier to maintain year-round.”
Weather-resilient backyard checklist
- Install adjustable shading such as outdoor blinds, awnings or louvres to adapt to changing conditions.
- Opt for drought-tolerant native plants.
- Consider low-water or artificial lawns to conserve water.
- Use permeable paving and effective drainage to manage heavy rainfall.
- Choose UV-resistant and composite materials that withstand extremes.
- Plant canopy trees or green walls to naturally cool surrounding areas.
Explore cooler artificial turf systems for lawns that remain green and usable in summer heat.
