Six ways to update your outdoor space in a weekend

Quick fixes to turn even the dullest area into an inviting alfresco space.

1. Brush up

If your outdoor setting has seen better days, Bunnings outdoor living buyer Ben Shanley suggests giving it a makeover with a coat of paint and some new accessories. “Giving tired furniture a fresh coat of paint can be a fun and affordable DIY project that will revamp your outdoor entertaining space,” he says.

“Select colours that will complement your current decor or choose a colour that will make a statement.”

Then, complete your freshen-up with some new outdoor cushions and finish with some strings of fairy lights overhead, which Mr Shanley says are perfect for “creating ambience for those warm summer nights”.

2. Just add greenery

Potted plants are another easy update that can make a big difference to any outdoor space, according to landscape designer Ascher Lindsay, of SolScapes.

“Adding pot plants in dead spaces can soften an area and add greenery to your garden and courtyards instantly,” she says.

3. Outer spaces

Scott Gregory, Australian Outdoor Living’s WA general manager, recommends installing outdoor blinds — not only to transform the look and feel of an alfresco area but also to create the effect of an additional living space.

“Adding outdoor blinds to an existing pergola or patio area can extend a living space, giving homeowners a whole new room in which to relax or entertain family and friends, regardless of the season,” he says.

4. Play time

Got an unused area in your backyard? Why not turn it into a simple play area for the kids.“

Try building a small sandpit in a unused corner of the garden,” Ms Lindsay suggests. “They are cost effective and low maintenance.”

5. Finishing touches

Just as they do inside the home, accessories can work wonders in alfresco areas, according to Ms Lindsay, whether it’s paint, soft furnishings, lighting or rugs. “Outdoor cushions and soft furnishings are the finishing touches that make all the difference,” she says.

“Whether it’s for alfresco dining or an outdoor deck, the furnishings, lighting and rugs and the way they are arranged will affect how easy the space is to use and how good it feels. Bring in the textures of nature as well, such as cane, timber or stone. Salvage yards and op shops are a great place to start looking for one-of-a-kind bargains.”

6. Think vertically

“A vertical garden is a great way to transform a dull wall into a bright growing space,” Mr Shanley says. “Installing a vertical garden is made easy with vertical garden kits that ... contain everything you need to get the framework in place.”