How to create a classic outdoor room

If you are not making good use of outside space then you are missing out on an entire extra room for your house.  An outdoor area doesn't just have to be where you store the BBQ and perhaps just a couple of chairs, or even worse, tools and equipment for the garden.  This can be a beautiful space that you will want to spend time in.  I am going to show you how to create a classic outdoor room that will be the envy of your friends and neighbours.

Install blinds or louvres to make the space a room

To ensure that you get to use your outdoor room for most of the year, you should install outdoor blinds and or louvres.  This turns the space into a closed off room so that you can ward off the mosquitoes during the summer months and get some shelter from the cold during the winter.  Of course, this depends very much on where you live, but even in cooler climates, this could still be a useable space during the day, particularly if you have outdoor heaters.

Plantation shutters are a good idea for sun control and to give you additional privacy.

Awning style batten shutters are perfect on this tropical Queenslander home.  This is a great idea if your outdoor room faces the street.

Sunscreen blinds work well to block out the heat and UV rays during the summer and also provide protection from the wind.  The darker the colour of the blind, the more you are able to see through them.

You can also consider extending out the wall for your outdoor room.  A screen of battens behind the barbeque can work well too.

This is another example of a partially walled outdoor room.  This looks like a second living area and depending on the climate, could be used for a good part of the year.

Choose the right flooring

If your alfresco area is adjacent to a living area then you should ensure, that there is some continuity with the flooring.  If you are starting from scratch then consider using tiles that have an outdoor non slip version to match.  This creates a seamless flow and makes the entire area feel more spacious.  If your flooring inside is timber floorboards, then it is a good idea to continue with timber outside.  This doesn't mean that they need to be exactly the same, but you should create some continuity with the type of product.  Don't be concerned if you have timber and tiles, it still works if the toning of each is similar.

Don't forget to check out composite options too for both the look of stone and timber as this can be a good way to achieve a space with minimal upkeep.

Install a ceiling fan

This really is an essential item if you are in a warmer climate.  Ceiling fans enhance air circulation and facilitate the evaporation of sweat making you feel cooler.  They also look great and really complete the look of a room.

Timber ceiling fans look great with timber flooring and stand out beautifully against the white ceiling to create a classic look.

Related: How to choose ceiling fans

Ensure the lighting is right

As with any interior space, you need to have different layers of lighting.  For an outdoor room, it is ideal if you can build in some downlights into the ceiling.  The space will also benefit from wall lighting to create atmosphere.  Indoors you would use table lamps to create mood with accent lighting, but outdoors, you should use lanterns and hurricane lamps with candles.  By not relying on just one type of lighting, the mood will be greatly enhanced.

Consider the look of the ceiling

You can simply line your outdoor room ceiling as you would the eaves on the rest of the house.  However, it can look really great if you put some thought into this area.  Painted V groove lining or stained timber lining boards can really elevate the space to the next level.  If you do like the timber look then consider using either pre-finished timber lining boards or a composite product for minimal maintenance.

Related: My guide to painting eaves

Use furniture to suit the style

The furniture you choose should relate to the style of the house and should flow from the interior selections.

If the area is large enough, you can zone it like you would an open plan area with a section to dine and a seating area.

Provide heating for all year round use

This really is the ultimate outdoor room with a fireplace and television.  With a gorgeous timber lined ceiling, batten style wall panelling, natural stone floor and fireplace and comfortable lounge furniture, this really would be my most favourite room.  I could quite happily spend most of the year in this space.

Complete the room with accessories

This is the fun part of decorating the space.  This is similar to styling inside, but you must ensure that your accessories are weather proof.  Even if your outdoor room is well protected from the elements, you should use outdoor cushions.  These are made from fabric that is both UV and water resistant.  Normal cushions will get mouldy, even if they are protected, so it is worth the additional investment in a good quality cushion.

Metal finishes will also quickly corrode so consider limiting these when you are selecting hurricane lamps, trays and candle holders.

If you are building or renovating I have a handy comprehensive exterior checklist which you can use to ensure you have everything covered.  You can download it free from my Resource Library. This will get you started with choosing roofs, gutters & facias and the many other products, finishes and colours that you need to select.  Sign up free for it here.

I also offer an online colour consultation service if you are stuck with selecting your colours.  From just one key question that is troubling you, through to a full colour scheme, I will have a package to suit you.  I can also tailor packages for you too.  Find out more here.