An outdoor space that’s stylish, practical, comfortable and designed to suit your family’s lifestyle is a worthwhile investment that provides the perfect setting for relaxed entertaining for many years to come.

If you’re renovating your home, there are lots of ways you can make small and large adjustments and additions to maximise your family and friends’ enjoyment of your outdoor space.

The experts at Anchor Homes’ take us through their top tips to help you create an outdoor living space that’s perfect for entertaining.

1. Getting the size right

A deck is the obvious place for outdoor entertaining, and there are lots of options for adding decks of all sizes to your home. A deck looks great and provides endless possibilities, but it’s important to get both the size and position right.

Make sure you measure up your outdoor table, chairs, barbeque, pot plants and anything else you wish to include so that you can allow enough room. Keeping it spacious is important — don’t be tempted to skimp on size and try and squeeze it all in, or it will end up cluttered and uncomfortable.

2. Positioning and shade

When choosing a position for your new deck, you’ll want to capture any great views and ensure maximum privacy from the street and neighbours. Also consider the aspect — how much sun will you get? If your deck is facing north or west, it might be a good idea to add a roof for shade. Creating an undercover alfresco means you can entertain outside at any time, even on wet days.

If you do choose to cover your deck, but want to avoid it looking too dark, you can use panels of clear roofing such as Laserlite sheeting to brighten things up.

3. Extra features for comfort

Having a deck that’s the right size and positioned well is good, but there are some clever ways you can take it to the next level. The addition of bistro blinds can make a huge difference to your comfort. They are also great for privacy if your deck is close to the neighbours, will provide some protection from the heat of the sun, and do an excellent job of keeping the wind out, which is important for elevated or exposed sites.

Bi-fold doors from your living area that open out to the deck make a stunning statement and create an easy flow between indoors and out.

Servery windows also provide connection to the outdoors, and allow for a relaxed atmosphere and easy vibe. It’s also important to note that if your decking is elevated above one metre, you’ll need to include a balustrade for safety. Always check with your local council to find out which regulations apply.

Good times in a great outdoor space

When the weather is fine, it doesn’t get much better than spending time with family and friends in an outdoor space that ticks all the boxes. If you’re renovating your home, it’s well worth adding a deck. And when you put thought into where it should go, and what it will be used for, you can design an outdoor space that you’ll love for years to come.