Inside outside – combining living areas with an architect

Australian obsession with outdoor entertainment is gaining popularity, with homebuilders looking to 'bring the outside in'. But if you're not in a position to build a new house from scratch, an architect may help you get the best out of both rooms.

Architect Paul Gardiner is frequently called on to design covered outdoor 'rooms' for clients. "These allow outdoor living under cover from rain, but more so out of the sun. Climate change is with us and ambient temperatures are rising," he says. "Extra space related to outside also allows flexibility for entertaining if there is a big crowd."

To achieve an integrated feel between outdoor spaces and the indoors it makes sense for the spaces to have some kind of logical connection to each other. "The relationship between inside and outside may be enhanced, for example, by a dining room that could lead to an outdoor eating area, or a kitchen that leads to a terrace with a herb garden," says Paul.

Outdoor area designs

Outdoor rooms can incorporate many of the functions of indoor rooms. Custom outdoor kitchens are becoming more common, from the simple outdoor grill design to the fully equipped, custom-made stainless steel outdoor kitchen.

Home renovation accessories

Accessories are all-important when it comes to creating an indoor feel outdoors. Think stylish outdoor furniture, outdoor rugs that blend with the tones of the garden and the interior of the house, and even curtains and shades that are designed for outdoor use.

The right home lighting products

Choose outdoor lamps or lanterns that blend with the colours and decor of the interior of your home. There are also candles, wall hangings and throw cushions that are designed for outdoor use.

Seamless transition

Choosing windows and doors that create the sense of a flowing transition between the inside and outside is also important. "We suggest floor-to-ceiling glass with fold-back central doors and sliding flyscreens, as they provide lots of mosquito-proof ventilation," says Paul.

Talk with an architect to maximise the potential of your living areas: