Enjoying the outdoors is part of the Australian lifestyle and as the days start to become warmer, we want to spend more time outside. Here on the Northern Beaches, we are fortunate to have a great climate, especially when that warmer weather rolls around. When we’re at home during spring and summer, an alfresco living area is ideal to enjoy this beautiful time of year. So, to make sure you get the best out of this part of your home, we’ve put together our top 9 ways to enhance your alfresco living area.
Indoor-outdoor living ideas
Your alfresco living area can be anything you desire. An extended dining space, entertaining area, relaxing zone, or even a kids play area. Some of our favourite ways to improve this indoor-outdoor area include:
Adding a designated kitchen area
Incorporating a kitchen area into your alfresco living space is a great way to be able to prepare food alongside your guests while you’re entertaining. This second kitchen means you don’t have to be indoors and therefore won’t be missing out on any of the fun! To really enhance this space, think about having an outdoor sink, bar fridge and BBQ. If you have the room, a pizza oven is another great addition.
Having storage space
If you are going to have a kitchen in your alfresco area, extra storage space such as cupboards and drawers will be really beneficial. You can use these cupboards and drawers to store items such as cutlery, BBQ cookware and even outdoor dining plates and cups.
Covering the space
An alfresco area isn’t just for when the weather is perfect. By covering the space and creating shelter, you can still appreciate this area of your home in the cooler months, when it’s raining, or even when the sunlight is a little too harsh. You really want to be able to relish this part of your home at any time of the year.
If you’re not completely sold on having the area covered, retractable awnings and shutters are a great solution.
Comfortable seating
Comfortable seating is going to make your alfresco area a quintessential entertaining and relaxing hub. If you have a pool, think about including some day beds to unwind on. Dining chairs are an obvious addition if the area is going to be used for eating, but also think about some standalone chairs for reading, writing or just taking in nature.
Installing lighting
Lighting in your alfresco area is a really important element, especially if you are going to be using the area at night. Not only does it help to set the atmosphere of the space, it will also be helpful when you are preparing food, playing games with your guests or reading in the evening.
For overhead lighting, make sure the lighting isn’t too bright or cool-toned, as the atmosphere won’t feel relaxed. You can also add dimmer switches to adjust the brightness. Your local Northern Beaches electrician will help you get the balance just right.
Garden lighting
If your alfresco space overlooks the garden, think about illuminating the garden to give it an inviting appeal. A soft, diffused glow will really transform your garden at night adding ambience and warmth while highlighting the features and showing off the extended space.
If you have steps leading to the backyard or pool, make sure these are lit up to prevent any trips or falls.
Having a fan for summer
Being able to switch a fan on for when it’s a little too warm is really going to level up your alfresco area. The refreshing breeze will keep you cool, while the circulation and movement in the air will help to keep bugs and insects away.
Heating for winter
Stay warm during the cooler months with overhead strip heating. The neat design of these heaters ensure they integrate effortlessly with the aesthetic of your space, while also being a luxurious heating solution. For those who want to take the luxury a step further, an outdoor fireplace is always a welcome addition.
Entertaining features
Think about which entertaining features will be best suited to your alfresco living area. Would you love to have a surround sound system installed? Or perhaps a television so you can enjoy some afternoon sport while sitting in the fresh air. Whatever technology you decide to incorporate, make sure you have enough powerpoints and ensure they are in the correct position.
Elevate your space with the help of an electrician
To really elevate your space, enlist the help of a qualified and licensed electrician. They will help you with the best layout for your electrical needs and be able to offer you advice based on years of experience, giving you an alfresco living area that is functional, aesthetically pleasing and enjoyable year round.
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