We, here in Australia, are blessed with some of the best weather and most beautiful views in the world. So, it’s no surprise that more and more Australians are putting their outdoor spaces to good use. As an extension of the indoor living space, backyards are places for alfresco dining, entertainment, play and, of course, cooking up a delicious meal on the barbecue.
If it’s time for your backyard blitz, it’s a good idea to absorb as much information and advice as possible. Below, we’ll share our favourite design tips for refreshing your backyard into a space that’s as usable as it is impressive. From layout planning and materials to furniture and greenery, this is everything you’ll need to know to create a contemporary outdoor setting.
Use Modern Fencing That Offers Style and Privacy
Boundaries play a major role in defining the mood of your backyard. A fence can offer privacy, of course, but it can also reduce noise, improve airflow, enhance security and create visual cohesion.
For example, aluminium slat fencing has sleek lines, low maintenance requirements and flexibility in both colour and slat spacing – perfect for the contemporary backyard. Contrast this with traditional timber fencing, which, while offering warmth to a backyard, is also susceptible to weather damage, peeling, pests and age.
Choose a modern material, then select a colour that matches your home’s exterior for consistency. For an extra touch, use a different fence colour behind garden beds to allow the greenery to pop.
Define Spaces Through Smart Layout Planning
The contemporary backyard prioritises designated zones for activities such as dining, lounging, cooking and playing. A well-thought-out design will consider how to ensure easy transitions between zones, using pathways and varying textures to separate them visually.
There should be a balance between the anchor features of a zone and the amount of openness in the yard to avoid a cluttered look. For example, a pergola could mark the dining zone, while a paved corner could be reserved for a barbecue or fire pit.
Note that when positioning your main lounging area, you should first assess sunlight patterns and wind exposure across different parts of your yard to ensure maximum comfort.
Choose Timeless, Durable Materials for the Australian Climate
While Australia is beautiful, its climate can be harsh, with intense UV exposure, salty coastal air, high summer temperatures and unpredictable rainfall. Because of this, materials should be chosen for their longevity and weather-resistance.
The materials best suited to your property will vary depending on where you live. Composite decking that withstands sun, snow and sleet is preferable to high-maintenance timber in mountainous regions. Powder-coated metals are more rust-proof than untreated steel, making them well-suited for rainy regions. And porcelain pavers, which are more resistant to staining and moisture than natural stones, may work well by the coast.
The goal is to choose materials that will reduce long-term maintenance costs while keeping your backyard looking clean, contemporary, and cohesive.
Create a Cohesive Look Through Furniture and Styling
What ultimately defines your backyard style is the pieces you put in it. Contemporary outdoor furniture typically features clean lines, neutral colours, mixed materials and modular furniture pieces. Outdoor rugs can help define zones, while mixed textures (rattan, metal, stone) add visual interest and depth.
For continuity, stick to an established colour palette and aim to buy things in similar silhouettes, even if their materials differ. Choosing furniture with hidden storage is also a great idea, as it helps keep your patio tidy and clutter-free.
Use Lighting for Ambience and Evening Enjoyment
Outdoor lighting is essential for the contemporary backyard, providing functionality, ambience and, most importantly, safety. There are three different types of lighting: ambient lighting for general illumination, task lighting for focused activities and accent lighting to highlight specific features of your yard. When layered well, each of these elements can make your yard feel more atmospheric and purposeful.
Consider adding ambient lighting with festoon lights or wall sconces, task lighting around the barbecue or outdoor kitchen and accent lighting around the garden. Lights should also be added around pathways to help prevent trips and stumbles.
Incorporate Greenery That Complements a Contemporary Aesthetic
A modern Australian backyard doesn’t need to be overloaded with plants to feel vibrant. In fact, strategic planting is often far more effective than filling every corner with greenery.
Start by choosing species that thrive in your climate zone. Think drought-tolerant natives like kangaroo paw, westringia, bottlebrush or ornamental grasses, all of which add structure without overwhelming the space.
Pair these with a few statement plants, like olive trees or frangipanis, to establish height and visual impact. Raised garden beds, vertical planters or neatly bordered garden lines help keep the greenery organised and intentional. The goal is to create a lush yet minimalist backdrop that enhances the contemporary feel without creating unnecessary maintenance.
Consider Outdoor Comfort and Year-Round Liveability
A stylish backyard means little if it can’t be used comfortably throughout the seasons. Shade structures like pergolas, retractable awnings or even modern shade sails can dramatically extend the usability of outdoor living areas during hot summer days.
Meanwhile, outdoor heating, like fire pits, portable electric heaters or built-in gas fireplaces, will help you continue entertaining well into cooler winter nights. Thoughtful additions like windbreak screens, outdoor ceiling fans or insulated roofing panels can also make a major difference in comfort.
By focusing on year-round liveability, you’ll ensure that your contemporary backyard truly functions as an extension of your home, no matter the weather.
Key Takeaways
You deserve to enjoy your backyard this summer and every summer. Fortunately, a refreshed, contemporary backyard is well within your grasp. Here’s how you can achieve it:
- Use modern fencing that offers style and privacy, opting for a durable choice like aluminium slat fencing.
- Define spaces through smart layout planning, creating zones for dining, cooking, lounging, and playing.
- Choose timeless, durable materials for the Australian climate, researching which materials are best suited for the unique challenges in your region.
- Create a cohesive look with furniture and styling, choosing pieces with clean lines, neutral colours, mixed materials, and modular elements.
- Use lighting for ambience and evening enjoyment, ensuring your task areas are brightly lit, your overall space has ambient lighting, and your yard’s best features are highlighted.
- Incorporate greenery that suits a contemporary look, using climate-appropriate native plants and structured planting for a low-maintenance, modern feel.
- Enhance year-round comfort with shade structures, outdoor heating and weather-smart features that make your space enjoyable in all seasons.
