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Make the most of your small alfresco

July 15, 2015

It’s the little things that make life wonderful.

A small alfresco doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the little things in life, get creative with the layout to get the most out of your outside space. Start with a rough idea of what you want to include and what you can do without, this will allow you to create a space that is both practical and attractive, and most importantly not boring!

Having large furniture in a small space will make the space look teeny tiny! Focus on incorporating various pieces that aren’t so large. This will open up the space and allow you to dress it up with a few elements to make the most out of your outdoor living area.

Opt for a two to four person table or couch that allows you to entertain without feeling cramped and claustrophobic. If you would like to include a barbeque on your alfresco consider a Webber Baby Q or a Ziegler and Brown, they allow you to get your Barbequing groove on in summer while not taking up to much room. If you feel as though you don’t have much seating space, add a wrap around bench into your backyard with some comfy cushions and hey presto you will have room to entertain more guests. If you have limited storage space, opt for built in bench storage with seats that flip open and allow you to store items inside.

Photo Credit: Adam Robinson Landscape Design

Make yourself a checklist.

When kick starting your design process for your alfresco space, ask yourself the below questions:

– What is the alfresco area going to be used for?

-How often will I use it?

-Am I designing it primarily ‘for me’ or ‘for entertaining’?

-Where is the sun in relation to the space?

-What time of day will I use this space most – morning, afternoon or evening?

-Do I want to use it in winter?

-Are their trees overhanging that will drop leaves?

-Do I need the alfresco area to be undercover in case of rain?

Create the ideal retreat.

One of the most important things you can do with your alfresco is clear out any clutter. Keep it simple! If you have any decorations or sculptures, large plants or even trees, move them to an area with more open space or re-plant them in your front yard. If you want to incorporate some greenery into your backyard/alfresco area, consider a wall garden that will grow vertically, see our example below from Three Birds latest renovation, they created a beautiful vertical garden outside the main bathroom window, how amazing!

Photo credit:Three Birds Renovations

So, how do you think you will design your alfresco? Maybe you’re going to go with an eclectic mix of bold prints and wild patterns, or maybe you’re ready to transport yourself to Tuscany with a gorgeous green canopy. Whatever design you choose, there’s no doubt it will add to your South West lifestyle. Create a space you can look forward to and enjoy the benefits of a beautiful alfresco area for entertaining and relaxing.

Because it’s our home too.