How to Style Your Covered Outdoor Living Spaces

Bali hut with decking to create a lovely private seating area.
Living in Australia means enjoying beautiful weather most of the year. Naturally, you want to make the most of it by creating an outdoor living space to relax and entertain. This article will guide you on how to style a covered outdoor living space as a focal point of your home, making it the perfect place to unwind and host dinner parties with family and friends.

Key takeaway section

There are many ways to cover an outdoor living space that you feel proud of. They range from being quite simple and easy to achieve all the way to the more elaborate plans that require more thought and attention.

Choosing the right cover for your space

The first step in styling your covered outdoor living space is selecting the right roofing cover. Options range from simple Bali huts to more elaborate pergolas. These structures provide shade and help define different areas within your outdoor space. Using a thatched roof can bring a touch of tropical charm to your backyard, while timber decking adds a natural feel. Consider the climate and the style of your house when making your choice.

bali thatch internal

Creating functional zones

Incorporating natural elements

Bringing nature into your outdoor space can make it more inviting and relaxing. Potted plants, Australian natives, and climbing vines add greenery and texture. These elements help blend the indoor and outdoor spaces, creating a seamless transition. Consider a mix of indoor and outdoor plants that thrive in your climate for a more personal touch. Plants add beauty and create a refreshing atmosphere, making your outdoor living space a great place to unwind and entertain.

Outdoor entertaining area ideas

Creating an inviting outdoor entertaining area requires a blend of comfort and style. Start with a versatile outdoor kitchen, perfect for BBQs and dinner parties. Add a dining table and comfortable chairs for dining. Consider features like a fire pit or a pizza oven for a cosy atmosphere during the cooler months. Use string lights and pot plants to improve the ambience. By integrating these design ideas, you can create a functional and welcoming outdoor space.
Outdoor living area by a pool with thatched umbrellas and deck chairs.
Shingle roof gazebo

Best roofing options for covered areas

Choosing the proper roofing for your covered outdoor living space. Metal roofing is durable and fits most styles but can cause condensation issues. Wooden shingle roofing is traditional and offers good shade, while thatched roofing provides a tropical feel and excellent UV protection. Synthetic thatch like Virothatch and Viva Palm are maintenance-free and UV-stabilised, making them perfect for the harsh Australian sun. Each material has benefits, so consider your outdoor space needs and climate.

Tips for making the space cosy and inviting

Focus on the small details to make your outdoor living space cosy. Soft furnishings like cushions, outdoor rugs, and throws add comfort. Use outdoor lighting such as festoon lights to create a warm ambience.

An outdoor fireplace or fire pit can make the space inviting during cooler evenings. Add personal touches with pot plants and decorative elements. These simple additions can turn your outdoor area into a perfect place for relaxing and entertaining all year round.

Maintaining your outdoor living space

Keeping your outdoor living space in top shape requires regular maintenance. Clean and protect your furniture and roofing materials to ensure they last. Use protective coatings like Timber Glow’s UV-resistant products on wood surfaces. Regularly check for any repairs needed, especially after harsh weather. Maintain potted plants by watering and pruning them as needed. By staying on top of these tasks, your outdoor area will remain a great place to relax and entertain throughout the year.

Synthetic-One-Thatch on a gazebo

Q1: What is the best roofing material for a covered outdoor living space?

Depending on your house’s style and climate needs, you can select from options such as a Bali hut, thatched roof or pergola. We have many suitable roof material options that we recommend such as Natural Bali Thatch, Synthetic Thatch, Asphalt Shingles and Timber Shingles.

Q2: How can I create functional zones in my outdoor area?

Use structures like Bali huts, Umbrellas and pergolas along with furniture to define cooking, dining, and relaxing areas.

Q3: What natural elements should I incorporate into my outdoor space?

Include natural Thatch products such as Bali Thatch or African Thatch. Our range of bamboo screens is another great way to add natural materials into your space and soften up your outdoor area.  Potted plants, Australian natives, and climbing vines to add greenery and create a seamless indoor-outdoor transition.

Q4: How can I make my outdoor living space cosy?

Add soft furnishings such as cushions, outdoor rugs, and throws, as well as outdoor lighting and a fire pit.

Q5: What maintenance is required for an outdoor living space?

Regularly clean and protect furniture and roofing, check for repairs and maintain plants to keep the space inviting.

Q6: How can Island Thatch help with styling my outdoor space?

Island Thatch provides quality materials and expert advice to help you create a beautiful and functional outdoor entertaining area.

Benefits table

BenefitDescription
Increased Living SpaceExpand your home’s usable area without major renovations.
VersatilityCan be used for cooking, dining, relaxing, and entertaining.
Aesthetic AppealEnhances the look of your home with attractive design elements.
ComfortProvides a comfortable place to enjoy the outdoors year-round.
Value AdditionAdds value to your property by creating a desirable outdoor area.

Quotes from the owners

Our goal at Island Thatch is to help you create an outdoor living space that looks stunning and meets your practical needs. We offer a range of high-quality materials and expert advice to make your vision a reality.

How to guide: Creating a covered outdoor living space

1. Choose the right cover:

Depending on your house’s style and climate needs, you can select from multiple roof options for your Bali Hut, Pergola, Umbrella or Gazebo.

2. Define functional zones:

Create areas for cooking (outdoor kitchen), dining, and relaxing using structures and furniture.

3. Incorporate natural elements:

To blend indoor and outdoor spaces, add potted plants, Australian natives, and climbing vines. Bamboo screens are a great natural addition to any outdoor space.

4. Add comfort and style:

Use cushions, outdoor rugs, and throws for comfort. Enhance ambience with outdoor lighting and a fire pit.

5. Maintain your outdoor space:

Regularly clean and protect furniture and roofing. Check for repairs and maintain plants to keep the area inviting.

Give us a call

Styling your covered outdoor living space transforms it into a versatile and inviting area for relaxation and entertaining. From selecting the right cover to incorporating natural elements and adding personal touches, each step enhances the space’s functionality and appeal. Regular maintenance ensures that your outdoor area remains welcoming all year. For more ideas and assistance, contact the friendly team at Island Thatch. We’ll help you create an outdoor entertaining area perfect for your home and lifestyle.

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