One of life's simple pleasures is heading outdoors to enjoy a beautiful Aussie day. Whether it's a BBQ with mates, a cold beer in the sunshine, or a quiet afternoon reading a book, there's nothing quite like being outside in the fresh air. But what if you could bring that outdoor experience right to your own backyard? That's where an outdoor living space comes in.
Creating an outdoor living area is about adding value to your home and creating an extension of your home's living space. With the right design, materials, and features, you can turn your backyard into a place where you'll want to spend all your free time.
The Benefits of an Outdoor Living Space
An outdoor living space can bring many benefits to your home, including the following:
Increased property value
According to the Real Estate Institute of Australia (REIA), a well-designed outdoor living space can add up to 8-10% to the value of your home. That's a significant increase, and it's something that buyers will pay extra for.
Increased living space
An outdoor living area can provide additional space for entertaining, relaxing, and enjoying the outdoors. It's like adding a new room to your home without the expense of actually building one.
Improved lifestyle
An outdoor living space allows you to enjoy the outdoors in comfort, regardless of the weather. It's a great place to entertain friends and family or just relax on your own.
Increased energy efficiency
An outdoor living space can also help to increase the energy efficiency of your home. It can provide shade in the summer and shelter in the winter, reducing your heating and cooling costs.
Designing Your Outdoor Living Space
When designing your outdoor living space, there are a few things to keep in mind:
Consider the size of your backyard
Not all backyards are created equal, so it's important to choose a design that will fit your space. A simple patio or deck may be all you need if you have a small backyard. You may want to include a pergola, a fire pit, or even a swimming pool if you have a larger backyard.
Think about the style of your home
Your outdoor living space should complement the style of your home. If your home is modern, you'll want to choose a design that is sleek and minimalist. If your home is more traditional, you may choose a more rustic and natural design.
Think about the features you want
An outdoor living space can include a variety of features, such as a BBQ, a fire pit, a water feature, or even a hot tub. Think about the features that will make your outdoor living space functional and enjoyable.
Consider the climate
As an Aussie, you know that the climate can be harsh. So it's important to choose materials that can withstand heat, rain, and wind.
Materials and Budget
When it comes to materials, there are many options available:
Timber
Timber is a popular choice for outdoor living spaces because it's natural, warm, and durable. It's also relatively inexpensive.
Concrete
Concrete is a versatile material that can be used for patios, decks, and even floors. It's also relatively inexpensive and easy to maintain.
Stone
Stone is a durable and natural-looking material that can be used for patios, walls, and even flooring. It's a little more expensive than timber or concrete, but it's worth the investment.
Brick
Brick is a classic material that can add a traditional feel to your outdoor living space. It's durable, low-maintenance and can be relatively inexpensive, depending on the type of brick you choose.
When it comes to budget, it's important to remember that an outdoor living space can be as simple or as elaborate as you want it to be. If you're on a tight budget, you can start with a simple patio or deck and add features as you go. If you have more money, you can include more elaborate features such as a pergola, a fire pit, or a swimming pool.
The key is to be realistic about your budget and choose materials and features that will fit your budget and your needs.
Creating an outdoor living space can be a big investment, but it's one that can pay off in the long run. It will add value to your home and provide you with a beautiful and functional space that you can enjoy for many years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much value does an outdoor living space add to a home?
According to the Real Estate Institute of Australia (REIA), a well-designed outdoor living space can add up to 8-10% to the value of your home.
What materials should I use for my outdoor living space?
There are many options available, such as timber, concrete, stone, and brick. The key is to choose materials that are durable, low-maintenance, and fit your budget.
How do I choose the right design for my outdoor living space?
Consider the size of your backyard, the style of your home, the features you want, and the climate.
Can I create an outdoor living space on a tight budget?
Yes, outdoor living space can be as simple or as elaborate as you want it to be. Start with a simple patio or deck and add features as you go.
The Bottom Line:
In conclusion, outdoor living space is an investment that pays off in the long run. It not only adds value to your home but also provides an extension of your home's living space that you'll want to spend all your free time in. Whether you're a BBQ enthusiast, a beer lover or just someone who loves to chill, an outdoor living space is for you. So, why not put on your thinking cap and start planning your own backyard oasis today?
