Your alfresco area will be an extension of your home and something which the whole family can enjoy. It can be used as an outdoor room which is perfect for entertaining, or for relaxing quietly with a good book.
Once you have selected your alfresco contractors, you need to decide what kind of theme you want to decorate your space with.
Here are 8 popular themes for decorating your outdoor area:
- The Moroccan Theme
A Moroccan theme is all about colour! Mix pinks, oranges, blues, purples and greens to create a space which will make you feel as though you are on holidays.
Place oversized cushions on the ground, hang tapestries from the ceiling and walls, and add an outdoor mat to bring your vision to life.
Choose blue and a contrasting orange to decorate your tables and chairs, and paint any steps in vibrant colours.
- The Beachy Theme
Most of your entertaining will likely be done in the warmer months, and a beach theme will complement those summer days. Search for decorations and cushions which are sandy and ocean blue in colour.
Be creative and add deck chairs, hanging lanterns and use oars and even a helm to add some nautical touches. Choose pot plants which resemble reeds, and don’t forget to add some star fish and oceanic stripes to the area!
Place mini buckets on your table filled with shells and sand, and add quirky coasters for your summery cocktails.
- The Glamour Theme
The glamour theme is going to give a sophisticated feel to your outdoor area. You may even want to ask your alfresco contractors if they can help you to install an outdoor chandelier style light.
Find decorations which include crystals or diamantes, and look for a silver and white palette. Glamour needs a little bit of sparkle, so add some soft fairy lights and white, draping curtains.
For your centrepiece, try to find fresh, white flowers with long feathers added to the mix. A glass top table and leather chairs will create the elegance you have been looking for. Or, try a high-top table with stools for restaurant style glam.
- The Rustic Theme
A rustic theme uses a range of natural colours and mediums. Think about oversized pots, and remember they don’t have to match.
Include wooden features, clay artwork and add a miniature herb garden to your wall. Wine barrels, wooden chairs and archways will emphasise the country style look.
Try adding a hammock or pizza oven as your stand out pieces!
- The Classic Theme
A classic theme is about simplicity. Go easy on the decorations and stick to a low, neutral table with comfortable seating.
Try to keep the area as open as possible and only add a few, matching pot plants. A bird bath, pond or water fountain in viewing distance will create a focus for guests without distracting from the simplicity.
- The Vintage Theme
For a vintage theme, try implementing some shabby chic. Look for florals, roses and anything which is pretty. This style gives you a chance to be creative, as imperfection is key.
Hunt the second-hand stores for retro seating and find a table to sand back and paint yourself. Mismatched furniture, buttons and pale shades will pull this look together. Add a small windmill or old bike with hanging pots for an olden day finish.
- The Modern Theme
The modern theme is all about clean lines and minimal colours. Consider greys, whites and greys and include lightboxes which are square in shape. Pot plants should be large with neat leafy plants.
This is where you can include an outdoor kitchen and bar, with stainless steel appliances.
Find graphic artwork for your outside walls, and consider decking the area. This style often uses straight lines so when you choose decorations, keep this in mind.
- The Family Theme
According to Best in Australia if you are at the stage of your life where you have children over, you can be more playful with your outdoor decorating. Include a separate area for little ones, with a mini table and chairs which replicates the grown-ups.
Beanbags, a sandpit and tepee will keep them happy and allow you to enjoy the company of your friends.
Don’t Forget…
No matter which theme you choose, the important thing to remember is you need to be consistent. Stick to one look to avoid design confusion.
Choose pieces which fit your theme, but make sure any furniture is still comfortable. This should be a relaxing area, and something you can enjoy for years to come.
Happy decorating!
