Tag Archives: Outdoor living

Bring the beach home

When it comes to interior design, opinions are as divided as ever. Trends come and go, leaving us wondering what’s in and what’s out. Styles that once dominated the scene are now seen as tired and dated, while others that were once dismissed are suddenly the epitome of trendy.

One style that often sparks debate is coastal décor. At its heart, this look is all about creating a calming space with natural materials, evoking that easy breezy summer vibe. But when it’s done wrong, it can feel more kitschy than coastal.

The good news? We’re here to steer you away from the clichés. Here’s your guide to three of the best coastal trends that will turn your home into a serene, stylish retreat – minus the gimmicks. Keep reading to discover how to make coastal décor work for you.

Luxurious Hamptons:

Adairs Elio Stripe Tall Vase $29.99, Bed Bath N’ Table Chunky Throw $49.95, Bed Bath N’ Table Dover Sand Timer $24.95, House Deborah Hutton Shell Bowl $34.99, Koala Living Bacchus Polished Brass Colour Metal Wine Cooler $299, Provincial Home Living Chandler Cabinet $3,499, Provincial Home Living French Armchair $1,099, Provincial Home Living Ansie Planter $69.95.

A luxurious Hamptons home embodies timeless elegance, blending classic coastal charm with upscale sophistication. Picture airy, light-filled spaces with high, coffered ceilings and crisp white walls, creating a serene backdrop. The décor leans into natural textures like rattan, driftwood, and linen, balanced by plush furnishings in muted tones – think soft creams, dove greys, and hints of navy and blue. Statement lighting, like large lantern-style fixtures or crystal chandeliers, add a touch of glamour without overshadowing the relaxed vibe. In the living room, expect deep, cushy sofas draped with lightweight throws, paired with accent chairs in nautical stripes or textured upholstery. The kitchen is typically expansive, with shaker-style cabinetry, a marble island, and polished nickel or brass hardware. Open shelving or glass-front cabinets display artisanal ceramics, glassware, coastal photography, and sculptural décor.

Rustic coastal:

Adairs Palm Tobacco Tufted Cushion $49.99, Bed Bath N’ Table Trailing Eucalyptus In Plastic Pot $29.95, Bed Bath N’ Table Fruit Bowl Framed Canvas $49.95, Bed Bath N’ Table Katina Tall Vase $99.95, DecoRug Magnesium Oxide Side Table $169.96, Focus On Furniture Corsica Dining Chair $299, Provincial Home Living Bengal Stripe Linen Cushion $139.95, Provincial Home Living Connor Coffee Table $1,199, Provincial Home Living Millicent Linen Throw $199.95.

On the other hand, the rustic coastal trend is all about embracing natural beauty while keeping things unpretentious. Picture a sun-drenched space where weathered wood meets soft, breezy fabrics, and everything feels lived-in yet thoughtfully curated. At the heart of this style are raw materials – think reclaimed wood beams, distressed finishes, and handwoven textures. slipcovered sofas in light, breathable linen, offset by a reclaimed wood coffee table. Accent chairs might feature natural fibres like rattan or wicker, bringing in that earthy, seaside feel. Pops of colour are subtle, often inspired by the surrounding landscape – soft blues, seafoam greens, and sandy beiges that echo the shoreline. Décor elements like driftwood-framed mirrors, nautical rope accents, and woven baskets add character without feeling overly styled.

Coastal boho:

Adairs Coconut Palm Natural Cushion $69.99, Adairs Goldie Soft Sage Taper Candles Pack of 3 $14.99, Adairs World’s Softest Byron Washable Rug $499.99, Bed Bath N’ Table Louie Throw $59.95, DecoRug Wavy Metal Floor Lamp $212.46, House Deborah Hutton Round Maize Tray $49.99, Koala Living Nicholls Antique Table Lamp $199, Koala Living Sorrento Fabric 3 Seater Cloud Sofa $1,999.

For those who enjoy a bit of creativity, coastal boho is for you! It’s a style where laid-back beach living meets artistic, bohemian flair, creating a space that feels effortlessly chic. Layered textiles are key here – think macramé wall hangings, handwoven rugs, and breezy, sheer curtains that let the natural light pour in. Furniture is often low-slung and comfortable, with oversized floor cushions, rattan chairs, and daybeds draped in throws, inviting you to relax. Plants are essential in coastal boho décor – think towering palms, leafy ferns, and cascading vines that add life and movement to the room. Shells, coral, and sea glass are often sprinkled throughout, subtly tying the space back to its coastal roots without being too on-the-nose. The overall vibe is casual and organic, with a mix-and-match approach that feels collected over time. A Moroccan pouf might sit next to a woven hammock chair, while soft linen pillows in playful patterns are scattered across a sectional. It’s a space that encourages lounging, gathering, and connecting.

There you have it! Whether you’re drawn to Hamptons décor, rustic coastal charm, or the laid-back, eclectic vibe of coastal boho, there’s a coastal style for every taste. The key is finding the one that resonates with your lifestyle and home aesthetic (while avoiding the clichés that can make the look feel forced). By embracing natural materials, thoughtful details, and a relaxed, easy breezy vibe, you can transform your home into a coastal retreat that feels authentic and inviting!

For more home inspiration, join the Homemaker Collective to stay in the loop.

The great outdoors

When the temperatures start to rise, it’s that time of year when we all want to spruce up our outdoor spaces. With summer kicking in, nature’s beauty is right at our fingertips, and it feels like the world is our playground. But where do you even start? Let’s chat about turning your outdoor area into the ultimate summer hangout!

There’s something magical about enjoying those sunny days with friends and family, whether it’s lounging by the pool, firing up the barbecue, or simply soaking in the fresh air. But to really elevate your alfresco experience, the right furniture makes all the difference! From cosy coastal vibes to vibrant bohemian flair or sleek modern minimalism, there’s a style out there to match your vibe. So, let’s dive into a few fun trends that will turn your backyard, balcony, or patio into the go-to spot for summer gatherings!

 

Slim Aarons-inspired décor

Adairs Citron Green Footed Vase $269.99, Adairs Soho Stripe Indoor & Outdoor Rug from $179.99, Adairs Summer Fruit Lemon Coupe Glass Gift Pack of 2 $39.99, Barbeques Galore Ubud 4 Piece Modular Lounge Setting $2,999, Bed Bath N’ Table Lumiere Candle $39.95, House MyHouse Berties Cushion $41.99, Provincial Home Living Soho Director’s Chair $229.95.

First up is Slim Aarons-inspired décor. Known for his iconic work as a photographer, Aarons had a unique talent for capturing the glitz, glamour, and leisurely lifestyles of the elite. Just one glance at his stunning images transports you to sun-drenched days in the south of France or lounging in Palm Springs with an icy martini in hand. This décor style embraces natural light and vibrant colours, evoking a carefree, aspirational vibe.

To achieve this look, focus on incorporating oversized, comfortable seating – think plush lounges and sun-soaked chaise lounges that invite relaxation. Use vibrant cushions in rich hues or bold patterns to add pops of colour, and don’t shy away from mixing textures like rattan, linen, and cotton. Add in natural elements, like lush greenery and potted plants, to create a sense of organic beauty.

Lighting is also key; opt for string lights or lanterns that cast a warm, inviting glow as the sun sets. And, of course, set the scene with elegant tableware for alfresco dining – think chic glassware and vibrant table linens that echo those dreamy summer days. With these elements, you’ll be able to channel that Slim Aarons style, turning your outdoor space into a glamorous retreat.

 

Tuscan terrace style

Adairs Sphere Lychee Bloom Candle 400g $25, Bed Bath N’ Table Morgan & Finch St Tropex Thin Stripe Chair Pad $24.95, DecoRug Abstract Ceramic Vase $10.47, DecoRug Tall Abstract Ceramic Vase $19.96, House Porto Brittany Set of 4 Goblets $49.99, House Tempa Fromagerie Deluxe 9 Piece Grazing Board Set $99.99, Provincial Home Living Kylix Urn $139.95, Provincial Home Living Olive Tree $79.95, Provincial Home Living Paradiso Umbrella $1,299.

The Tuscan terrace trend is one that blends terracotta hues with vibrant whites and fresh greenery, creating a dreamy space that transports you straight to Italy. It’s all about creating the feeling of sipping a glass of refreshing wine under the warm Tuscan sun, surrounded by décor that radiates rustic elegance. This style is perfect for summer gatherings, injecting every outdoor event with that unmistakable Italian flair that makes hosting feel special. After all, when it comes to entertaining, the Italians truly know how to set the scene!

To bring this look to life, start with warm terracotta pots filled with lush plants and herbs like basil and rosemary. Opt for a dining table made of weathered wood paired with comfortable, cushioned chairs in crisp white or soft neutrals. Layer in vibrant table linens and colourful ceramics to create a stunning tablescape.

 

Indoor-outdoor design

Adairs Monte Florida Palms Indoor Mat $39.99, Adairs Torino Outdoor 2 Seater Chair $999.99, DecoRug Terrazzo Look Sculptural Side Table $127.46, Focus On Furniture Orbost Coffee Table $699, Koala Living Becca Ceramic Vase $39, Urban Rhythm Composition A Art $449, Urban Rhythm Halcyon Cushion $135.

No need to adjust your glasses; the line between indoor and outdoor living is delightfully blurred – and for good reason! This trend is all about creating a harmonious environment that elevates your lifestyle and makes your home feel more expansive. You can easily achieve this look by incorporating earthy materials like stone and wood, which bring a natural touch to both spaces. Layered lighting is key; think strategically placed fixtures that set the mood and extend the usability of your areas into the evening hours.

Equally important is choosing chic yet durable furniture for your outdoor areas that mirrors the comfort of your indoor pieces. Look for plush sofas and stylish dining sets that encourage relaxation and foster a laid-back vibe throughout. You can also enhance the connection between spaces by adding large glass doors or expansive windows that invite the outside in. By focusing on these elements, you can easily integrate indoor and outdoor living.

With summer on the horizon, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and turn your outdoor area into the ultimate hangout spot. Whether you’re channelling the effortless elegance of Slim Aarons, embracing the warm charm of Tuscan terraces, or blending indoor comforts with outdoor living, the possibilities are endless. By selecting the right furniture and décor, you’ll create an inviting space that’s perfect for everything from cozy family dinners to lively weekend get-togethers.

For more home inspiration, join the Homemaker Collective to stay in the loop.

barbeques galore nunawading homemaker

Become The Favourite Party Host With Barbeques Galore At Nunawading

If you’re planning to host a gathering with friends or family soon, then you need to head into Barbeques Galore Nunawading for all the essentials. They have a great range of barbeques in all shapes and sizes, outdoor furniture, fire pits, gardening supplies and entertaining necessities to suit all your needs. When planning a gathering it is not only important to think about the food and drink, but also how you are going to create your delicious menu and what is going to allow you to do so. It is also about crafting the perfect ambience and having enough comfortable seating to ensure your guests are relaxed and taken care of. Today we are going to be sharing all our top tips for how to build the perfect ambience, the best cooking essentials and creating a gathering your friends and family won’t forget.

 

Barbeques For Large Gatherings

When planning your next gathering, the first thing we recommend doing is creating the guest list and working out how many people you will need to cater for. Australia is the perfect place to host outdoor soirees as our weather is beautiful many months of the year. A BBQ is the great all-rounder when it comes to at-home entertaining as you can cater to many dietary requirements and cook large amounts of food in quick succession. At Barbecues Galore Nunawading we have a huge range of barbeques that are perfect for large gatherings with burners ranging all the way up to 8 plus! Ziegler & Brown have a huge range of 6-8 burner barbeques that will become the communal hotspot at your next gathering and allow you to feed plenty of hungry mouths.

 

Space Saving Barbeques

Our homes are intentionally thought out to ensure we make the most of every square centimetre and that is why space saving barbeques are a hot talking point when it comes to outdoor entertaining. Often, we (understandably) prioritise large outdoor dining tables and plenty of seating options for our friends and family, which leaves limited space for other items in our outdoor entertaining areas. This is why at Barbeques Galore Nunawading they offer a range of space saving barbeques to suit your requirements. With a range of compact 2 or 3 burner barbeques you are sure to find the perfect barbeque to suit your small space. There are also options for countertop portable barbeques or barbeques that are on wheels to easily store out of sight. We love the compact Ziggy Classic Twin Grill Natural Gas BBQ in gunmetal grey for a great portable solution.

 

BBQ Cleaning Tips

At Barbeques Galore Nunawading they know that cleaning your barbeque and maintaining its condition is just as important as preparing delicious meals. That is why Barbeques Galore offer a wide range of products to help you in keeping your barbeque looking pristine. A great starting point is the Beefmaster 5-Piece Cleaning Set that comes with a stainless-steel scraper, scouring pad handle and a variety of sponges to suit your cleaning requirements. They also offer plenty of stainless-steel spray cleaners to ensure your barbeque stays sparkling clean at all times. And to ensure you can not only house all your delicious food, but make cleaning up a breeze, they offer a huge range of aluminium trays and drip trays in every size you could possibly need.

 

Furniture For Outdoor Entertaining

Lastly, when creating the perfect outdoor entertaining space for your next gathering, it is essential to think about your furniture and ensure you have enough seating options and table space to suit your needs. Barbeques Galore Nunawading have a great selection of outdoor dining tables, chairs, lounges, umbrellas and so much more. With dining sets in a variety of sizes, colours and materials they are sure to have an option to suit your home style and design preferences. We are obsessed with the Palade 9-Piece Dining Setting with it’s gorgeous timber design and beautifully padded chairs for ultimate comfort.

 

So, the first step to take when planning your next gathering is to head into Barbeques Galore Nunawading. It is a one stop shop for ensuring you have the perfect barbeque to suit your requirements, cleaning supplies to ensure it stays in pristine condition and an array of outdoor furniture to set the scene. Head in store this weekend to check out their amazing range to see for yourself!

top 4 summer entertaining trends outdoor furniture

Top four summer entertaining trends

Summer has finally arrived and with the change of season comes a new appreciation for our outdoor spaces! There’s no denying that the weather is close to perfect and we think that calls for a celebration of our hard-working front yards, backyards, patios, and other open-air spaces (you know, the spots that are dedicated to entertaining).

With that in mind, it comes as no surprise that outdoor trends are starting to rival the number of indoor trends! Keen to know more about the latest craze in the interior space (or should we say exterior space)? Below we’ve gathered some of the top outdoor entertaining trends.

Front yard focus

Enhancing front yard areas is becoming more popular than ever before and rightfully so. This space is so often forgotten about, yet it’s the very first area your guests will see upon arrival. We’re seeing front yard makeovers everywhere and they’re certainly upping the curb appeal of houses as a whole.

So, what are some key elements to incorporate in an on-trend front yard? For starters, manicured lawn is a must (no explanation needed). You’ll also want to think about symmetry –frame your front door with potted plants or incorporate symmetry into your landscaping. Rid the space of unwanted weeds and dirt (yes, time to pull out the weed killer and pressure cleaner). Lastly, if you have the space, consider adding a seating area. This could be a singular floating chaise or a pair of outdoor armchairs.

Tuscan design elements

Dreaming of summertime in Tuscany? Why not create the same feel at home? Tuscan-style décor is in with its warm colours, natural elements, and a touch of rustic charm. This trend is all-encompassing, so to successfully pull it off, Tuscan additions are required to all areas of your outdoor space. Check out our blog on how to moodpboard your interior spaces to bring your visions to life. Invest in wall hangings, ceramics, sculptures, terracotta pottery, and wrought iron furniture. Plant a variety of traditional plants like rosemary, olive trees, and lavender, and lastly consider an overall colour scheme – stick to olive greens, deep oranges, and even maroon.

Outdoor rooms

Much like the concept of open floor plan living, we’re seeing a trend develop where larger outdoor spaces are being divided into distinct areas or “rooms.” This includes outdoor kitchens, the use of pergolas, and contemporary poolside styling. Backyards now house multiple sections for seating, dining, and relaxation, rather than a single focal point.

Tip: if you’re struggling to create a divide between sections, look to the earth! Break up the areas by changing the flooring or ground texture. We recommend the use of gravel, tiles, and fresh grass.

Bold colours

Go bold with colours and say goodbye to muted hues with bright tablescapes, outdoor rugs, cushions, and statement furnishings. Minimalism is out and maximalism is officially back in!

We’re expecting to see splashes of colour everywhere this summer (indoors and out). Naturally, the Pantone colour of the year, Viva Magenta, continues to be a beloved shade this year. But hues of yellow and orange are also at the top of interior designers’ lists.

Keen to discover more summer trends? Read our Summer Trend Report online now and follow us on Instagram to stay up to date with retailer offers, professional decorating advice, and more interior inspiration.