The Block 2017: Dea Jolly's tips on how to perfect indoor-outdoor living

As Australians, we love to be outside in our backyards enjoying beautiful weather and entertaining family and friends.

The connection of our homes to outside spaces is not only a must for our social lives and a playground for our children, a well-designed outdoor space adds serious value to a property.

Here are the essentials necessary to turn your backyard into a relaxing outdoor oasis.

Install a deck

Adding a deck to your backyard instantly defines a space for outdoor dining. Add a pergola for protection from the elements and style your deck with pots, lanterns and built-in seating.

A deck offers excellent views of your surrounding garden or pool. Try introducing multiple levels to help create zones for dining and relaxing.

Lighting

Adding beautiful lighting to an outdoor space is what makes it truly magical.

• Related: Updating your outdoor area? Avoid these materials
• Related: The best man caves from around the world
• Related: Dea Jolly’s top tips on styling your kitchen

Make the most of summer evenings with the right type of lighting – from string lights to lanterns, wall and landscape lighting, there are a wide range of illuminating choices available that will add atmosphere to your backyard.

Outdoor kitchen

If you love to BBQ and eat outdoors once or twice a week, you need an outdoor kitchen.

Keep it simple with a bench top for food prep, built-in BBQ, and a refrigerator and sink to make preparation and clean-up easier.

Backyard entertainment

Inject some fun into your backyard with one or more of the following:

Fire pits create a focal point, as well as drawing people together. A fire pit allows your backyard to be utilised no matter the season.

Pools and spas might be a big financial commitment, but they add wow factor to your home. It’s also a way to keep family and friends entertained for hours.

Landscaping

Landscaping really is the icing on the cake of a beautifully finished home. Adding plants and flowers will freshen up your backyard and help create a sanctuary.

If you are unsure about what to plant, contact a landscape designer or ask for advice at the local nursery.

The Block houses are live on Domain:

• Josh and Elyse: 46A Regent Street, Elsternwick 
• Sticks and Wombat: 46B Regent Street, Elsternwick
• Ronnie and Georgia: 46C Regent Street, Elsternwick
• Clint and Hannah: 46D Regent Street, Elsternwick
• Jason and Sarah: 46E Regent Street, Elsternwick