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How to Create an Amazing Outdoor Area from Sareen Stone

tumbled noce travertine pavers and step treads

ADVICE: Are you missing an Amazing Outdoors?

Wanting an urban oasis to escape the daily grind or simply an area to entertain and not be ashamed of. There are so many options - but what's the best option for you and your budget? We chat with our resident landscape expert Gary Bazzana on how to get an amazing outdoors.

Most backyards include a patio area and perhaps a lawn. But there are many parts to a backyard that can make it more personal and enjoyable. From a warm fireplace or fire pit, to a pool for cooling off, backyards are all unique and include many different elements.

Here we look at some very simple tricks to save you time and money to spruce up your outdoors. And for the ultimate outdoors makeover we show you the best ideas to transform your outdoors into something even the Joneses would be jealous of!

Before you start:

There are some key factors to think about when planning the outdoor space of your dreams. Consider the following before making any plans - this will ultimately tell you what type of outdoor living space you are after and an idea of the budget you might need.

1. Use & Purpose
How do you want to use this space? What's your ideal outdoor space? Have an idea of who will be using this space and how; for example is it for

  • Entertaining
  • Relaxing
  • Swimming
  • Playing
  • Gardening

2. People & Pets
Think about who will be using this space - will you need to incorporate a kiddy friendly area for young children such as a play area or will this area ultimate be used by teenagers and adults and require more entertaining space. Do you have pets that require grassed yard area?

3. Environment & Climate
Weather and environment will impact the shape, style and quality of an outdoor space. As well as its maintenance needs. Do you live in a very cold or hot climate? Is your soil mostly clay, sand or rock? Consider the kind of maintenance a certain plant needs and if the site could allow these plants to live.

4. Sustainability
Looking at sustainability is a great way to ensure you are saving money, time and looking after the environment; look at plants that are edible or require less frequent watering. Designs that trap rain water and distribute to your garden.

5. Pools, Spas & Water features
Are you looking to incorporate an existing pool or a new one into your outdoor design? Limited with space - try a plunge or lap pool. Water feature's more you thing...designs are endless but again make sure you look at sustainable option that are water saving.

6. Time
This is something many people don't often think about. The warmer months are generally for entertaining and spending time outdoors. So consider how much your time is worth and how much a contractor is worth and the time it will take for them to complete the job. Are you going to be pressed for time if you try a DIY job? Also think about the complexity of the job. It is better to consult a specialist to gain expert advice before you start buying and digging and realise you've taken on more than you can deal with.

ENTERTAINING
Outdoor kitchens & BBQ | Fireplaces & Firepits | Alfresco

Outdoor entertaining is a great Australian tradition. Whether it is just a couple, family or a group of friends, what they do during such get-togethers is equally diverse. This is why you must view your outdoor project as a one of a kind endeavor, because its ultimate form is derived from your idea of entertaining, the available space on site and the budget to put it all together.
Think...

  • Lounge areas that entice conversation and comfort
  • Outdoor kitchen with BBQ - if you have the space and budget stop running back and forth inside
  • Fireplace or Firepit - they make for great visual effect and keep you warm in the cooler months
  • Mood lighting - around 'conversation' areas you want a festive yet clam ambience to have a drink
  • Built in bar - keep the drinks handy and off the floor and out of the esky! To free up space you can also try a moveable bar cart

Here are our picks for the ultimate entertaining outdoor space

outdoor entertaining

RELAXING Water features & Koi Ponds | lounge seating | Garden Décor

In contrast to the entertaining outdoor space, a relaxing garden should be designed for peaceful contemplation. A relaxing space should be a quite haven for visitors and draw its focus to nature. The more natural and harmonious a garden is, the more conducive it is to contemplation.

Taking guidance from the Japanese philosophy, utilize four essential elements in your relaxing garden design: natural stone, water, plants, and ornaments.
Think...

  • Tranquil stone water features & waterfalls, bamboo water sprouts, natural stone basins and Koi ponds
  • Stone lanterns, rain chains and other traditional Japanese garden décor into your landscape - evoke your inner chakra
  • For extra privacy and quiet use a stone cladded wall, lattice screen, or row of trees or hedges
  • A shaded lounge area for relaxing and dozing - ensure you choose a setting that is comfortable and works with your landscape styling

Here are our picks for the perfect relaxing space

relaxing outdoor areas

SWIMMING
Pools & Spas | Plunge & Lap Pools | Easy lounging

Like an entertaining outdoor space having a pool is another Australian tradition - and every kids dream. But with today's newest designs and innovations it's not just for the kids. There are so many options to transform your outdoor space in to a tropical resort or a cool place to take a dive from the daily grind.
Think...

  • Stylish natural stone like a classic travertine or Himalayan sandstone that compliments the tranquil blue water
  • Select lush, tropical plants and bold colors - think palm trees swaying in the wind, birds of paradise showing off their bright flowers
  • Hammocks & chaise lounges are especially appropriate for a tropical garden and beside the pool
  • For the ultimate resort style invest in a stone water feature or waterfall that cascades directly into the pool

Here are our picks for best outdoor pool escape

swimming pools and landscapes

KIDDY FRIENDLY
Forts & Cubby Houses | Climbing Spaces | Swing Sets

Among on the decisions you will make when considering your new outdoor space is the requirement for a kiddy friendly or backyard play area.

Backyard play areas are great for keeping kids active and entertained at home. Referred to as playscapes by landscape architects and designers, a play area can consist of a playset with swings a slide and a sandbox. However, you can opt for anything that you know your kids will be entertained by.

Great tip: When creating a kid-friendly yard, keep play areas separate from adult areas, ensure that they are visible from inside and outside and place them far out in the yard for the best visibility.
Think...

  • Tepees & tents - for the ultra cool kids
  • Forts and cubby houses - some even come flat packs now easy to assemble
  • Stepping stones and bridges - add that extra touch of magic with simple stepping stones and a moat or bridge
  • Tire swings and swing sets - a backyard swing is a source of endless fun for kids, and there are several different ways to make one for very little money.
  • Oversized chalkboards and paint areas
  • Painted twister game - turn a family fun board game into oversized outdoor amusement
  • Climbing spaces - aching handholds and toeholds to make a set of uniquely designed monkey bars
  • Outdoor mud pie kitchen - give your young sous-chef the perfect outdoor kitchen space this summer by creating a backyard mud pie station turn the kids loose to have some good clean fun while getting dirty.
  • Family garden; run by the kids! Get them into learning about sustainability and the environment the fun way. Give them free range to manage their own garden and let them add their edible delights at dinner time.

Here are our picks for the ultimate kid zone

outdoor areas for children



Sareen Stone Profile

02 9666 9222

Unit 2, 2-12 Beauchamp Road, Botany, NSW, 2019

Sareen Stone Profile

02 9666 9222

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