Outdoor areas can sometimes be an overlooked part of the house, but styling these spaces with purpose has the power to turn your average backyard into an open-air oasis.

The key is to focus on pieces that will unlock newfound functionality, encouraging activity to spill from inside to the outdoors on a sunny day, or extending a relaxed backyard barbecue well into the night!

For us, this starts with a good outdoor dining setting.

If you love entertaining and have the space, we suggest investing in a long rectangular table with either matching dining chairs or sleek outdoor benches, while a smaller courtyard could benefit from some mixed-and-match styles to create visual intrigue.

Something like the Freshwater Teak Outdoor Dining Table by Jati looks great alongside the HAY Palissade Cord Dining Armchair from Cult in a contrasting burgundy hue.

Green and timber always look calming and cohesive paired against a leafy backdrop, but we’re also big fans of how terracotta hues, woven textures, and earthy tiles can bring a bit of resort-style escapism to your backyard too — evoking memories of a rustic European hotel.

Most importantly of all, take time to think of how you want to use your outdoor space, and curate pieces that will accommodate that.

For example, want a designated spot for a sunset Aperol spritz? Add the Kylix Curvy Stool by Early Settler with the elegant Tidal Chair by Tait in a corner that gets great evening light!

Plus, don’t forget to make sure your backyard is equipped to withstand the sometimes-harsh Australian climate. A ceiling fan like the Caelid Fan from Beacon Lighting with timber blades a great way to help keep the breeze going, while an umbrella like the Caspar Patio Umbrella by Basil Bangs is a must-have for shade.

Sounds dreamy, right? All we need now is for the weather to improve!

Additional moodboard credits (from left): Palm Springs Large Nickel w Lacquer from Lightly, Barro Jug Tall – Dark Blue from Hay, 2 Palamós Gobelets in Clear & Natural from Maison Balzac, Mousqueton Portable Lamp in Brushed Stainless Steel from Hay.