If there is one clear reason to call Western Australia home, it’s got to be the weather. Even with its scorching days, summer in the west is pretty amazing.
So now that the days are heating up and the entertaining season is most definitely in full swing, you may find yourself thinking about how to make the most of your outdoor space.
The right inspiration and planning will help you spend more time kicking back and enjoying your own backyard haven.
Image: Escea
Get Cooking
Whether you’re looking at a freestanding barbecue or an elaborate outdoor kitchen, having somewhere to cook outside is a no-brainer if you’re serious about making the most of the warmer weather.
And there’s plenty of reasons to put some effort into planning the perfect place to practise your culinary skills.
Cooking outside is super convenient, even when you don’t have company. Keep smells and mess outside, experiment with smoking meats and vegetables, and produce fast meals that are guaranteed to please.
Consult an expert, you might be surprised at just how easy it is to plan an outdoor kitchen that makes cooking and dining outdoors a summer delight.
Image: Dale Alcock Homes / Jason Windows
Light the Way
Lots of keen gardeners agree that a beautifully landscaped space can look like a whole new world when it is well lit, not just for practicality but also ambience.
There are plenty of options from professionally installed lights that will transform trees into glowing sculptures right through to solar powered DIY lights that still pack a punch.
Hit the Deck
Gone are the days when a decent backyard was judged on the quality and expanse of its turf.
If weeding, fertilising and watering huge areas of lawn isn’t your thing, there are many stylish alternatives now available.
You can create the perfect outdoor space by mixing up the different textures and finishes underfoot.
Crushed stone is a gorgeous environmentally friendly option that works well alongside decking, grass, concrete and paving.
If you’re looking for decking, there are plenty of options available that are designed to stand up to the tough conditions we have in Western Australia.
Image: Smart Homes For Living / Affinity Windows
Give Me Shelter
Just because you are in the great outdoors, does not mean you have to be exposed to the elements.
In fact, if you don’t have a place to take refuge from the sun, it’s likely you won’t use your backyard much at all.
Pergolas, awnings, verandas and vergolas are all great options.
Integrate
Modern homes integrate outdoor and indoor spaces seamlessly. If you’re creating a home from scratch, take the opportunity to ensure the indoor flows with little effort into outdoor areas.
Big doors that let in light and ventilation are fantastic but make sure they are properly screened to keep bugs and flies outside.
Think about orientation and if there are large expanses of doors and windows looking out to areas where the sun beats down, have a plan for keeping the worst of the sun’s harsh rays out. This can be in the form of plantings, awnings or freestanding structures.
