Western Australia is a prime location for enjoying outdoor living. The Mediterranean climate brings a comfortable breeze across the area, during the summer months. The winter months are never overbearing with harsh weather, making it possible to enjoy outdoor living during the winter season. Perth, the largest city of Western Australia, has been noted as having the longest hours of sunshine, compared to other capitals of the continent. If you live in the area, or are thinking of relocating to Western Australia, look at these ideas that can help you appreciate the awesome outdoor living.

Image via: CDN, Indulgy

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1. Pergola Structures

If you are starting from scratch, a pergola is the perfect way to add shade, protection, and beauty to your outdoor property. A pergola can be built onto an existing home, such as over a patio, or created as a free standing structure. The roof can hold slats of wood, allowing the sun to seep through, or lightweight awning that is semi-transparent. Use the following materials to build up a 4-foot wall for privacy:

• Bricks
• Timber
• Wood Lattice

Image via: All Homes

2. Sculptured Decks

Turn a bare piece of ground into a work of art by using timber, concrete pavers, or a combination of both. There are no hard and fast rules that say a patio has to be concrete, square or rectangular. Giving your yard a little curvature, will increase the flow with the trees and bushes. If you have un-level ground, a deck that is perfectly even can bring a significant different to a back yard. Here are some ideas for turning your outdoor space into a work of art:

• Crescent shaped wooden deck
• Flowing paths with pavers, stopping at a circular rest area
• A three-tiered deck for cooking, eating and sunbathing

3. BBQ Island

If grilling outdoors is your passion, do it right with a permanent structure that is always waiting on you. Spending thousands on masonry work is not necessary when you get creative with a BBQ island frame kit. You can make it as simple or as extravagant as you want. It only takes a few steps to make your own BBQ island.

• Determine the size and shape
• Order frame kit with the number of cabinets you want
• Top off your design with counter tops, back splashes and handles

You can also place an oven in your island for baking and warming food items. With cut out framing pieces available, your BBQ island will look custom made.

Image via: Creative Design Space

4. Fire Pits

Fire pits can add a longer season to your outdoor space by providing heat on chilly nights and being able to enjoy the natural setting. There are all types of designs that can add distinction to your patio. Some of these include:

• Cast Iron Bowls
• Clay Chimineas
• Wok Style Fire Pits with Base

Make your Chiminea the centre of attention or scatter small wok style pits around your patio or deck. From tall and colourful models to small and simple pots, you will find yourself using this patio piece on a daily basis.

5. Outdoor Kitchen

Having an outdoor kitchen is the ultimate in outdoor living. No more staying inside to cook and missing out on a sunny day. There are many kits to help you get started on you own personal design. A covered patio is recommended for protecting small electrical appliances and cook tops for stationary, custom-built kitchens. There are also kitchen carts that allow you to roll inside when weather is bad. Popular features that are found in many outdoor kitchens include:

• Cook Tops
• Sinks
• Compact Refrigerator
• Storage Cabinets

6. Water Scenes and Sculptures

The sound of a trickling waterfall is relaxing and fits right into the pleasures of the outdoors. Small ceramic sculptures, set in a corner can allow you to watch the nurturing water. If you have the room, think about hiring landscapers to build a small pond with a large lighted sculpture in the centre for a dramatic scene, at night. Resin plastics and PVC, in the place of real boulders, saves money and effort in constructing.

Image via: Pinterest

7. Privacy Screens

Once you have a structure in place, privacy screens can add solitude or cover from neighbours. Selecting a removable screen or blinds can give you the option of full sunshine during the day and privacy when needed. These can consist of some of the following:

• Wicker Room Dividers
• Semi-Sheer Curtains
• Pull-Down Blinds

Creating an outdoor living space is exciting and well worth the time in designing. Not only will you find that the outdoors can become your haven for rest, but you will also have a beautiful area for the whole family and entertaining guests.

This article was written by Ash Graham of Sola Shade, plantation shutters and blinds suppliers in Perth, Western Australia. Ash is also on Google+ as well.

For more outdoor home ideas on Stagetecture, click here.