It might not feel like it yet in Canberra, but summer is almost upon us so now is the perfect time to start planning a dream entertaining space for your home.
Australians love the great outdoors so whether you have a sprawling acreage, a big backyard, a cosy courtyard or a rooftop, having a functional alfresco space will be a welcome extension to your internal living areas.
Here are some ideas about what to consider when creating a dream entertaining area.
Outdoor dining
Good company usually goes hand-in-hand with good food, so making provisions for alfresco cooking and dining should be a given when planning a new entertaining area.
There are a range of outdoor cooking options available from gas or charcoal barbecues to standalone and a built-in barbecues; and other popular additions like teppanyaki grills and wood-fired pizza ovens.
If your budget allows, an outdoor kitchen with a drinks fridge, sink and dishwasher would be a great inclusion, particularly if your kitchen is not in close proximity to your outdoor area.
MARQ Partner and Licensed Agent Suzi Wells said: “Having that ease into outdoor living spaces from internal living areas is a big drawcard. A lot of people are looking for a seamless transition from the kitchen to the outdoor alfresco.
“Wood-fired pizza ovens are also very popular. They’re versatile so make for easy entertaining.”
Winter warmth
Canberra winters are chilly so it’s a good idea to factor some sort of heating into your alfresco plans, particularly if you would like be able to use the space all year round.
Imagine warming your hands over an open fire in winter or toasting marshmallows. There’s nothing quite like the flicker of an open fire to create a focal point or attraction to your alfresco area so it’s worth considering a fireplace or fire pit.
But if an open fire just isn’t your thing, there are plenty of gas and electric fireplaces, or even fire tables, that will create winter warmth without you having to chop firewood.
“Many Canberrans are looking for versatility in an outdoor area so they can use it all year round. A lot of people consider café blinds, a hard or a retractable roof and anything with patio heating in Canberra is very sought-after,” Suzi said.
Cooling and shade
As well as keeping warm in winter, you will want to be comfortable in your new alfresco when the temperatures soar in summer.
A hard patio roof or veranda, a couple of fans and even an alfresco mist cooling system will help you to negotiate any heatwaves.
Flexibility
Creating a new entertaining space will come with at least some financial outlay so it goes without saying that the longevity of your entertaining area should be front of mind.
Consider weatherproof and multi-purpose designs and furniture that can be agile if your plans or circumstances change.
Maintenance
From pruning to painting to clearing gutters and eradicating the winter weeds, a bit of toil in the yard will also make a big difference to the way your outdoor area presents.
If you’re lucky enough to have a swimming pool or spa, make sure they’re in good working order and ready for extra use in summer. Similarly, a high-pressure clean of the outdoor pavers and glass fencing will pay dividends.