Outdoor living is embedded in the Australian culture and integral for truly enjoying any property. Are you thinking of adding an alfresco design to the outdoors? It opens a new world of entertainment and comfort, with opportunities to access fresh air and entertain your family and friends. However, it’s essential to make your alfresco functional without compromising aesthetics. Easy tips for your alfresco design can help. Read this article and avail yourself of the top tips that evoke a great space.
Determine an Ideal Layout and Size
The alfresco endeavour is pretty exciting. However, imagining that any luxury design is fitting is wrong. Start by contemplating the types of activities you’d like to make room for, the vibe you want to create, and the matching block size. Then choose between an intimate and small space or a large and spacious design. Are you targeting an area for sipping your morning coffee as you read your book or one for hosting the best gatherings and parties?
It’s always best to set up different zones for relaxing, cooking, and socialising without sacrificing traffic flow. Lastly, find the best location for your alfresco on the property after considering natural factors like the sun’s orientation and the prevailing winds.
How Much Do You Value Your Privacy?
Do you need walls? Unfortunately, contemporary alfresco designs don’t feature walls. If you wish to invest in adequate privacy, it can be accommodated at the planning stage. Still, modern designs can employ privacy screens and blinds to keep away sneaky eyes.
- Convenience is Vital
You require a seamless transition from your home to the outside. Since it is an extension of your house, it should be easily accessible. Pro tip? Have the food prep area located near the indoor kitchen. It will minimise numerous overhauls as you source your ingredients. Most importantly, think of access to power and water as you plan. Your lifestyle also determines how you design the space. For instance, an external heater or fireplace addition makes it worthwhile during the winter, while focusing on bar and dining areas means you value socialisation. On the other hand, a ceiling fan invites a breeze during the hot summer.
- The Design Should Complement the Home
Your alfresco should naturally blend into your home’s architectural style and not look like an afterthought. It should borrow its finishes from the interiors for a continuous transition outdoors. Incorporate identical ceiling details, lighting fixtures, and chair designs. Also, create uniformity with similar alfresco roof designs. Remember that choosing materials suitable for exposure to external elements are recommended. Considering easy-to-maintain surfaces can also go a long way.
- Create a Connection With the Outside World
The alfresco is the link between your home and the outside. Therefore, enhance its quality to create a proper connection. Use space, lights, breezes, and views for an unrivalled experience. Choosing the right doors that enhance the flow between the interior and exterior is a great place to start. Consider large sliding or folding glass doors that push back or retract to disappear visually. It decreases the visual and physical barriers to opening up the space.
- Lighting Boosts the Alfresco Aesthetics
Set the best tone with lighting to welcome relaxation possibilities. You can have multiple lighting choices, including dimmable led downlights for food preparation, wall lighting for promoting a relaxed atmosphere, and spotlights that highlight features like sculptures, water features, and built-in seating areas.
Conclusion
Creating the perfect alfresco space can be intimidating. However, sticking to the above tips will guide you to the outdoors you’ll be proud of. You can still involve reputable professionals with a good portfolio from the design to the installation stage for the best results. Always be realistic with what you need and what is possible in the available space.
