Masters Home Improvement

Comfort, practicality and lashings of style are key elements in the outdoor furniture market.

Quality also comes in to play, with the latest materials and fabrics being durable and long-lasting.

But before you start transforming a backyard into an al fresco entertaining area, discover the latest styles, designs and accessories on offer…

Current trends

Bringing the inside out has become a popular theme, making the outdoor entertaining zone inviting day or night.

You can cook, dine, lounge or play in either a large backyard or a modest courtyard.   

Everything from charcoal grills to outdoor kitchens are now on the market, so it’s easy to whip up a couple of sausages or a full lamb roast.

Large outdoor umbrellas provide plenty of shade during warm days, but after dusk, an array of portable and rechargeable lights create atmosphere and provide fabulous illumination.

Idyllic during summer, outdoor dining has also become possible in the chillier months thanks to a wide selection of braziers, firepits and gas heaters to keep you cosy.

Drawing inspiration from the Australian landscape, an earthy colour palette of chalk, tan, grey and charcoal has popped up in furniture and accessories.

When it comes to dining tables and chairs, an array of styles and materials can suit your requirements and budget.

The latest materials, such as woven PVC wicker, are durable, crack-resistant and easy to maintain. The current styles are so attractive, they can look just as good on the outdoor deck or in the dining room inside.

And for a little bit of luxury, a comfy outdoor lounge or daybed has become a must-have – a place to while away the days in your own outdoor sanctuary.

Furniture

Shapes, sizes and materials all need to be considered when choosing outdoor furniture.

An outdoor dining set is a key element in an al fresco area, so figure out how many people will regularly enjoy your barbecue skills.

Stackable, lightweight chairs are handy in a small space since they’re easy to pack away when not in use.

For another space-saving option, small coffee tables can double as seating when the family and friends arrive on the weekend.

A foolproof design classic is the bench seat – adored by designers due to the minimalist look, this type of seating is also a joy for families since kids can easily jump in and out.  For long, long lunches, attachable cushions never go astray!

While dining is a lively affair, other areas in the backyard can be utilised as a place to kick back and relax.

That’s why more sumptuous offerings are now available, such as comfy armchairs, sunlounges and decadent daybeds.  All you need on a warm sunny day is a sun hat, a book and an icy refreshment.

Materials

Quality long-lasting materials add a stylish element to an outdoor setting.

Here are the latest offerings…

• Teak: A tropical hardwood, is weather-proof, termite-proof, resistant to rot and requires minimal maintenance.

• Keriung: A tropical hardwood is also weather-proof, resistant to rot and requires minimal maintenance.
   

• Eucalyptus: A great value for money timber that is weather resistant but requires maintenance.
   

• Woven PVC wicker (also known as synthetic or faux wicker): This is usually woven to a welded aluminium or steel frame.  Durable and stylish, it’s become a popular option for dining sets and lounge settings.
   

• Aluminium: It’s incredibly lightweight so the furniture can be easily moved around.
   

• Steel: Great value for money, durable and sturdy.

Accessories

Whether you’re decorating a cosy balcony or a large backyard, decorative touches bring personality to the space.

A pretty birdcage, a modern statue or a wrought-iron screen are some of the options now available. 

An abundance of lanterns and candles provide evocative illumination, and if the wind is whistling, a hurricane lantern keeps the light burning.

For instant shade, a pretty parasol or an oversized umbrella is essential in the Australian climate.

For more ideas and inspiration, and to see the latest product ranges, visit your local Masters Home Improvement store.