Designing the ultimate alfresco for your home
Designing the ultimate alfresco for your home can be a fun and creative process. There are a few things you may wish to consider in order to design the ultimate alfresco area that will suit your lifestyle and needs.
Create a design brief
Start by considering how much space you have available, what kind of furniture and decor you want, and what type of plants or trees you want to incorporate. Once you have an idea of the basics, you can begin to plan out the layout of the alfresco. Prioritise with a list of things that you may wish to create a design brief outlining all the aspects you would like to include in the space. Feel free to download our client wishlist to fill out to determine what you would like to include in your new alfresco area.
Location and climate
When planning an alfresco area in Australia, there are some important considerations to consider. Firstly, it’s important to consider the location and the climate. In Australia, the climate can vary significantly across different areas and seasons, so it’s important to make sure that your outdoor area can withstand extreme heat and strong sunlight or the unpredictable Tasmanian conditions with wind and rain at a moment’s notice. Additionally, you should think about the type and amount of shade you need, and how you’ll create it. Considerations for how the alfresco area will be sheltered from strong winds are also important to take into account.
Materials and furnishings
You should also consider the materials you will use in your alfresco area, as different materials may be more suitable for different climates and how much maintenance you are willing to undertake. For example, are you willing to re-paint/stain your deck? Or would a wood composite or concrete deck be a better option for you? Additionally, when it comes to furniture, you should look for pieces that are designed to withstand the elements and that can be easily cleaned and maintained. Make sure to include comfortable seating, ample lighting, and a place for dining or entertaining. Finally, choose colours and materials that reflect your style and bring it all together with carefully placed plants and greenery. With a little creativity and planning, you can create a beautiful and inviting alfresco area to enjoy.
Flooring
It’s important to think about safety in your alfresco area. For example, you should consider what type of flooring you use and make sure that it’s slip resistant. Natural stone is a popular option as it is durable, elegant, and long-lasting. However, you can also find composite decking materials that are designed to look like natural wood, which can provide a cosy and inviting atmosphere. Depending on your budget, there are also plenty of synthetic options that offer a range of colours and textures.
Lighting
Lighting the alfresco area is an important aspect of creating your ideal alfresco to determine what type of lighting is required to make the area safe and inviting, particularly at night. One great way to light up your alfresco area is to use solar-powered string lights. They are energy efficient easy to install and can create a beautiful and inviting atmosphere. You could also consider using LED garden lights, which are a great way to accentuate your outdoor space. Be sure to check the wattage of the lights you choose, and make sure they are suitable for outdoor use. With the right lighting, your alfresco area will be a great place to relax and entertain.
Outdoor kitchen
Creating an outdoor kitchen in your alfresco can be a great way to add value to your home and make your outdoor area functional and enjoyable! Depending on your budget and space, you can add a range of features such as a sink, a barbeque, a pizza oven, a refrigerator, or even an outdoor dining area. If you’re looking to create a more luxurious outdoor kitchen, you could add granite countertops, a built-in grill, or even a custom-made outdoor kitchen island. Whatever you decide to add, make sure that you create a kitchen that fits your lifestyle and adds value to your alfresco.
If you would like to learn more about building an alfresco on your property contact us and we can walk you through the process, from designing your new home, council applications, and approvals as well as provide you with any additional information that may be relevant to designing an alfresco.