‘Tis the season for backyard cricket, backyard BBQs and long, lazy afternoons spent sipping on cool beverages – but is your outdoor space ready or still suffering from post-winter neglect? These days, it takes a bit more than just wheeling the BBQ into place and dusting off the outdoor cushions – we’re battling heat waves, dry spells, floods, and a desire to step up our outdoor entertaining game. The good news, though, is that any investment you make in sprucing up your outdoor space isn’t lost – outdoor improvements add major lifestyle and resale appeal.
So before you crank the handle on your cantilever umbrella and call it job done, read on for our tips to not only create a space that can handle whatever elements the Aussie summer throws at it, but also invites you to settle in for an afternoon well spent.
Create a garden to withstand the elements
Never-ending dry spells, intense humidity and scorching heat waves are becoming the new summer-normal. Instead of embracing the withered, crispy-foliage look, give your garden the armour it needs to take on the elements. Here’s how:
- Lay the right foundation
Soil preparation and clever landscaping matter when it comes to working with the elements rather than battling them. Start by identifying dry zones in your garden, and instead of planting, add hard landscaping features here, like on-trend crazy pavers or river stones. Next, add a generous layer of your summer garden bed’s best friend – mulch to lock in precious moisture and keep the soil below cool.
- Choose your plants wisely
When the temperature climbs and watering restrictions loom, it’s no fun watching your precious perish. Plant smart from the start by choosing drought-resistant varieties adapted to high temperatures and minimal watering. There are plenty of Australian native classics that fit the bill, like Kangaroo Paw, Bottlebrush and Grevillia – they’ll have the added benefit of drawing beneficial pollinators to your garden too.
- Get smart with watering
When it comes to getting the hose out (if water restrictions allow), the rule isn’t to ‘water more,’ it’s to ‘water smarter.’ Most plants won’t thrive with a daily light sprinkle; instead, give them a good, deep soak every few days (early in the morning or late afternoon) and concentrate your watering at the base of the plant. This encourages deep root growth and ultimately, stronger, more resilient plants. If space allows, consider installing a rainwater collection tank to help care for your garden over the summer months.
Create your dream outdoor space
Whether it’s alfresco dining, a place for kids and pets to roam safely, or even a spot to stretch out on a beanbag and soak up birdsong and Vitamin D, creating your dream outdoor space doesn’t need to cost you a second mortgage. Here’s how to create an area that beckons you outdoors (and boosts your home’s value too):
1. Zone your space
If you’ve got a decent-sized area to play with, begin by creating distinct zones based on your priorities. This could be a lounging area complete with a fire pit, a dining space near the or , or a kids’ paradise complete with a play kitchen and sandpit. Starting with a clear wish list of spaces will help inform your choices for the tips that follow.
2. Shade lovers unite!
You’re hardly going to want the kids’ sandpit located in a scorching hot spot, so think about where you have existing shade – such as a mature tree or shadows from the house – and make the most of these. From there, strategic plantings, like fast-growing climbers over a pergola, create shade and enhance aesthetics, or invest in a shade sail, patio system, or umbrella for instant protection and more usable outdoor time, rain or shine.
3. Utilise greenery and natural elements
From colourful flowers to a potted olive tree or a dedicated herb garden, greenery can add depth, interest, and shade, and help zone your various spaces. Tall shrubs in planter boxes can define seating areas and add privacy, while whimsical blooms in pots add romance to dining spaces. Other natural elements, such as stone garden edgings, water features, or timber feature walls, will infuse your space with calm.
4. Add the ultimate water feature – a backyard pool
It has the potential to blow the budget, but it’s also an investment that will provide years of entertainment and add value to your property, too. In fact, studies have shown pools can add between 10 and 16% to the value of a home, peaking at up to 35% in some areas. These days, there are pools for every space and function – so before you write it off completely, take a look at these Picture-Perfect Pool Ideas for your Backyard.
5. Good food, good company, and the great outdoors
At the heart of every gathering is the food, and over summer, it’s time to take the kitchen al fresco. Whether you set up a BBQ, an outdoor bar, or a portable drinks trolley to mix your own cocktails, creating a space centred around food and drinks draws the crowds and gets guests mingling. Keen to go big? Invest in a complete outdoor kitchen explicitly designed for your needs.
6. Styling to survive summer
We’re now seeing that almost every indoor lounge item – from rugs to coffee tables, throws, floor lamps and cushions – has its own bespoke outdoor counterpart. But what works indoors is vastly different to styling to survive summer. Choose outdoor furniture and furnishings made from durable UV and weather-resistant fabrics and materials, and select lighting that’s up to the task. Solar lights, fairy lights and citronella candles set the mood, while pathway lights or spotlights for steps or decking add functionality and keep the soiree going long after the sun sets.
7. Add personality with DIY and budget-friendly hacks
On a budget? There’s no need to rush out and buy the latest outdoor furniture and furnishings, a drinks trolley, or a shade sail; there are plenty of clever DIY tricks to transform your space with upcycling, repurposing or sourcing second-hand. Sand back a worn timber chair and refinish it, repaint a metal table in a bold hue, or convert unused or collected items, like crates or ladders, into your own quirky plant stands. Don’t underestimate the power of paint, too – it can completely reinvent a tired concrete patio.
Your backyard made better – a smart long-term move
Investing in your backyard isn’t just about aesthetics – it’s a smart long-term move that pays dividends in more ways than one. A well-designed outdoor area not only gives you more space to enjoy, entertain and unwind, but it also boosts your property’s resale value and appeal. Even minor upgrades, like carefully considered plant choices, well-defined outdoor zones, and ample shade, can make a big difference to your enjoyment and future buyer appeal. So, start small now, and by this time next year, your outdoor space will be ready for every sun-soaked soiree summer may bring.
If you’re hunting for a home with a backyard to DIY, Blitz or enjoy as-is, get in touch with your local First National Real Estate team. We’ll help you find the home and backyard you’ve been dreaming about!
DISCLAIMER
The following advice is of a general nature only and intended as a broad guide. The advice should not be regarded as legal, financial, or real estate advice. You should make your own inquiries and obtain independent professional advice tailored to your specific circumstances before making any legal, financial, or real estate decisions. Click here for full Terms of Use.
