'A common error': The six biggest mistakes you're making with your outdoor area

Last week The Block contestants tackled their final and, arguably, most challenging space – the terrace and outdoor area. “Al fresco spaces are often neglected with renovators focusing more on the interiors of their homes,” says director and principal stylist at Vault interiors, Justine Wilson. “It’s important to remember that a well-considered outdoor area has the potential to add enormous value to a property.”

Faced with different types of outdoor spaces – from open and closed to palatial rooftop – the contestants’ overarching goal should be to create the perfect balance between function and style, while integrating the styling with their property’s interior. “It is integral for overall flow and function,” says Wilson. “Not achieving it is a common error.”

With stiff competition from Bianca and Carla, Norm and Jess took out the win with an outdoor area that judge Shaynna Blaze said “sells the apartment”.

So, what other mistakes should be avoided when renovating? Here are some of the traps to avoid  when creating the perfect value-adding terrace for your home.

Overspending

For contestants, terrace week is not only challenging, but also coincides with what is left of their budgets. “Luckily you don’t need to overcapitalise here,” says Wilson.

“Keep it simple. If you are installing an outdoor kitchen, the only big ticket items you need are a BBQ, prep space, sink and perhaps a fridge. Otherwise, a well-functioning outdoor area can be executed properly, no matter what your budget.”

Disconnect between indoors and outdoors

How the outside connects to the indoors is a common concern for renovators. “Find a visual element to connect the two,” says Wilson. “It could be building material, accent colour or a style of furniture that helps create visual consistency. Zones can be linked practically with the addition of a servery window, bifold doors or an extension of your inside flooring outside.”

Related: View the five Gatwick apartments for sale

• Kerrie and Spence: 1/34 Fitzroy Street, St Kilda
• Hans and Courtney: 2/34 Fitzroy Street, St Kilda
• Sara and Hayden: 3/34 Fitzroy Street, St Kilda
• Norm and Jess: 4/34 Fitzroy Street, St Kilda
• Bianca and Carla: 5/34 Fitzroy Street, St Kilda

Indoor furniture, outdoors

Be cautious of furnishing your al fresco area with furniture that is better suited for inside. “Luckily there is beautiful outdoor furniture available now,” says Wilson. “If you are worried about upkeep, consider installing a pergola to ensure you have cover, or purchase outdoor furniture covers.”

Look for outdoor furniture that is both functional and robust. “Timber is great but needs oiling and re-staining,” says Wilson. “Consider faux timber deco-wood products or stylish powder-coated furniture that looks great but is also low maintenance.”

Poor layout

The key to a chic and well-functioning outdoor area is carefully considered furniture placement. “It should be designed based on your unique space,” says Wilson. “There’s no blanket approach.”

Remember to consider the whole outdoor space, rather than concentrate on separate components. “Be aware of floor space and ensure there is plenty of room for every item you require,” says Wilson.

Sara and Hayden’s custom built-in concrete BBQ and hot plate are winning additions, says Wilson, who says an outdoor kitchen adds more function to the zone. “It makes entertaining easy too,” she says. “If you don’t have the budget for one, you can find decent freestanding units or great-looking stand-alone BBQs.”

Installing an outdoor fire – illegally

While Bianca and Carla received the go-ahead on their outdoor fireplace, many renovators push ahead without checking for legalities first.

“Many councils have rules about open burning, so ensure you check first before lighting up,” says Wilson. “This extends to fire pits and chimneys. If you are unable to install a permanent structure, there are great ethanol burner options, even some that are integrated into dining or coffee tables. They make a great focal point for a space.”

Under-accessorising

With a lack of budget to style and furnish their outdoor area, Hans and Courtney have decked theirs out as a simple white room with a built-in seat. While this was seen as a disadvantage by the judges, Wilson says a sparse white area can be the perfect canvas for creative and low-budget styling.

“It is simple to add a pop of accent colour using accessories,” she says. “Consider inexpensive but sophisticated soft furnishings as an effective way to style on a budget. Outdoor rugs and cushions are an easy way to inject pattern and interest.”

Greenery is also an easy and low-cost way to up the style ante. “For The Block penthouses, greenery is ideal,” says Wilson. “Roof terraces get plenty of sun so low-maintenance plants like yukkas or succulents are great. If you have enough shade and protection, group vast potted plants like palms to create a stunning look and an upmarket feel to your terrace.”