There is nothing more iconically summer than a classic BBQ on the deck. Create an outdoor area you’re guaranteed to enjoy living in.
●If you’re starting from scratch, or building on a partly executed outside design, then spend some serious time at the initial planning stage. You can’t go wrong getting a professional in to help you with design – from hard landscaping and an area to entertain, through to selecting plants, a few dollars spent will save you headaches and unnecessary expenses later. Landscaping isn’t cheap – especially if you make the wrong choices when it comes to materials or greens – so consider a design that you can spilt into sections and work away at as your budget allows.
● While we all love the idea of a huge Kiwi back lawn, in reality our homes will often cover a large percentage of the sections, so something more low-maintenance may be better suited if you are working with smaller spaces. Hard surfaces are multipurpose, for everything from entertaining and dining, to giving the kids a place to ride their skateboards and scooters or building huts. Soften the edges with plenty of lush green planting. A hedge is an easy way to create a fabulous backdrop. Plant it up first off and it’ll be blooming by the time the other stages are complete.
● With planting, always buy the best quality and biggest or fastest-growing plants you can afford, in order to give your garden maximum impact – but don’t be afraid to ask for cuttings from friends, families and neighbours with established gardens. I’ve “borrowed” a huge number of Agave plants from my parents, and paid Mum back with mondo grass from ours. I am also not shy of picking up plants left on the roadside and giving them a good home.
● Ideal placement for your barbecue is essential, preferably in a sheltered and covered spot on a hard, level surface. It should be close enough to the kitchen to easily pass equipment and food in and out of, but not in the middle of the entertaining section, where the wind will blow smoke either into the living areas or out to your guests!
● A suitable outdoor table is a given, surrounded by as much flexible seating as possible. Trawl the internet and second-hand stores for bargains. Chairs can often be mismatched for a retro, eclectic look and will just need a good sand and
oil or coat of paint.
● Dress your deck with a level of comfort, as if it’s an outdoor lounge – think about weather- appropriate chairs or beanbags with side tables. Your deck stairs should be wide enough to add a handful of cushions to be used as seats. A couple of large rugs thrown down will soften your hard surfaces. Be sure to add in a few colourful table accessories and specialist elements – such as hanging paper decoration, lanterns and bunting – to give any entertaining space a light, party vibe.
Watch LeeAnn on the judging panel of Mitre 10 Dream Home, TV2, Tuesdays, 7.30pm.
Related stories
Native ad body.
Native ad body.
Native ad body.
