Home decorating: outdoor retreat

When the weather warms up, it’s time to extend your living area outside. Create an inviting, comfortable space where you can entertain friends or simply curl up with a book. By Jo Carmichael.

The alfresco season
As the warmer weather creeps upon us, it’s time to throw open the doors and reclaim our open spaces. Our breezy outdoor furniture ideas will have you inspired. Also this month, a contemporary harbourside home, and a kitchen and laundry makeover with clever use of space.

By the seaside
Wondering what to do with the shells you pick up on walks along the beach? Display them en masse in an old-fashioned storage jar. If you don’t live near the sea, start a collection of pine cones or pretty pebbles.

Even outdoor furniture needs some TLC – protect the finish of your teak table by using beautiful tiles instead of placemats and coasters.

Decorating on a budget?
Make some comfortable cushions (pictured right) out of durable tea towels, then use big buttons to add interest. We used cheap bed pillows and backed the tea towels with plain cotton fabric.

Furniture facelift
Give metal outdoor furniture a makeover with a fresh coat of paint. Don’t limit your colour palette to basic black or white – choose a pretty powder blue or another inviting shade. We bought this metal table and chairs from a second-hand store, then painted it with Rust Guard Advantage in Fragile Blue, $34 per litre, from White Knight.

Summer safety
Don’t forget your safety in the heat of summer. Screen doors keep the air flow and deter intruders. Visit www.amplimesh.com.au.

 

Production & styling: Jo Carmichael. Photography: Scott Hawkins. Stylist’s assistant: Georgia Harvey-Sutton.