2 WINTER WINNER

Take steps to make the outdoor area as inviting as an indoor one.

Architect: Philippa Mowbray, Philippa Mowbray Architects (philippamowbrayarchitects.com).

With its north-facing aspect, the front of this house in beachside Cottesloe, Perth, becomes the ideal place to position an alfresco living area. The raw materials that furnish the space reflect its location. “They’ll blend, fade and soften naturally,” says architect Philippa Mowbray. “The house will become a dynamic part of the nature that surrounds it.” The installation of an outdoor fireplace in the feature wall, made of hand-selected white stone from Donnybrook quarry in WA’s south-west, welcomes family and friends outside to wine, dine and relax, no matter the climate. It makes a cosy space all year round.

A louvred awning over an outdoor space will protect you from the full force of the sun, while still letting bright natural light in. It also comes in handy during wet weather, as the louvres can be closed over for full protection from rain.