In Focus

A well put-together living space outside your home can make life sweeter and reap rewards if you sell, writes Laura Barry.

Outdoor rooms.

Setting up an inviting alfresco room to take your outdoor zone from ho-hum to heavenly will pay off on many levels. Aside from delivering daily enjoyment, it will likely lift the value of your property.

“We’re seeing a shift towards multi-functional outdoor areas as homeowners look to maximise their outdoor spaces for entertaining purposes, while capitalising on their investment,” says landscape architect Chris Mahoney, managing director of Verdé Design Group in Brisbane. “Investing in professional outdoor design can add a huge amount of value.

“Consider how to bring warmth to your outdoor area so you can use it year-round,” adds Mahoney. “Avoid cold materials like steel and concrete, and incorporate comfortable seating.”

Regardless of the size of the area or your budget, a well-considered grouping of furniture and accessories in a cohesive colour palette will ensure your outdoor room registers in the style stakes. And functional appliances will make socialising a breeze.

Landscape designer Anthony Wyer (pictured) designed this living area in his sister’s Sydney backyard. Marine-grade textiles stand up to the elements, while the merbau deck and copper wall panels will weather naturally. wyerandco.com.au