Step-by-step courtyard makeover

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In just one weekend, we transformed a neglected inner-city courtyard into a green living space. And this is the sort of makeover that anyone can do themselves. So, if your courtyard is tired and in need of a new look, consider setting aside a couple of days to transform it into a fabulous, friendly outdoor entertaining room.

Freshen it up with some great furniture, an instant deck, divine colour, gorgeous pots and lush plants. Revitalise damp, dark outdoor spaces with these simple ideas and you’ll wonder why it took you so long!

Never again will you groan at the thought of having guests over; now, you’ll have the perfect place to entertain or indulge in some downtime with a book or quiet drink. And even if you’re renting, there’s no excuse not to create your own personal haven – this courtyard makeover is completely portable; you could pack it up and move it in 24 hours. To begin, note what you want from your outdoor living space and take the list to your local garden centre. We found Richard Unsworth at Sydney's Garden Life full of bright ideas for small outdoor spaces. Richard helped us find clever ways to create a unique design that mixed a tropical look with modern elements. For example, since this courtyard was gloomy and unfriendly, with cold, grubby tiles and high walls, Richard suggested hiding the red brick with a plywood wall and natural reed screen to get the makeover started.

Asking an expert to assist with the initial design process can save you time and money. It's particularly helpful if they can visit your outdoor space and get a feel for it.

Before
What a challenge! The courtyard of this inner-city apartment was dull and gloomy. Cold floor tiles, red brick walls and an awkward underground vent made it an unpleasant place to be. But all that changed in 24 hours...

1. Choose a feature colour
   All rooms need a feature colour and the outdoor room is no exception. Choosing the colour is a very important first step, as all subsequent decisions will hinge on this one.
    
2. Disguise brick walls
   Hide original walls with a variety of screens – we used painted plywood and Natureed cladding, as well as woven reed screens. These provide a backdrop to the courtyard as well as helping to add texture.
   
3. Deck the floors
   Disguise floor tiles with interlocking timber decking that simply slots into place. You don’t need a carpenter to build your deck; all you need is an even floor. Timber will warm up the courtyard's atmosphere instantly.
   
4. Choose the perfect water feature
   There are plenty of water features to choose from. Select one that suits the style and size of your courtyard.
   
5. Select pots
   Create harmony by choosing pots that are similar shapes, but different sizes.
   
6. Create atmosphere with plants
   Choose plants to fit with your pots. Large-leafed, bold tropical plants will add colour and drama. A good-quality potting mix is best for most plants, but remember that bromeliads like to grow in pine bark.

Words & design: Linda Ross. Photography: Scott Hawkins. Styling: Lisa Hilton.