Western Australia’s climate and light make outdoor living a priority for many homeowners. With inner-city blocks getting smaller, designers are paying as much attention to outdoor spaces as indoor ones – especially to how the two connect. Here are three Perth homes that do it well, plus ideas for your own outdoor haven.

A home built around a courtyard

With a raw, mixed-material palette, rooftop gardens, a two-and-a-half-storey entry void, feature breeze walls and even a koi pond, this home (pictured above) has it all.

&Dalecki designed a U-shaped layout that wraps around a central courtyard and alfresco area, so the owners have views to the outdoors from every part of the house.

A pool on a 180sqm block

This light, airy three-storey terrace home by ARC SEVEN.1 makes the most of every square metre of its 180sqm inner-city block. Many people would rule out a pool on such a small site, but this home proves what is possible with creative thinking.

Building up rather than out leaves room at ground level for the pool and outdoor area, which open directly from the living spaces. It is a good reminder that a small block does not have to mean giving up on outdoor living.

Year-round comfort with a view

This award-winning three-level home overlooking Cottesloe Beach was designed so the owners can enjoy outdoor living and their spectacular views all year.

Designer Shayne Le Roy says many alfresco areas are designed for seasonal use, but with a view like this it was important to make the outdoor spaces comfortable whatever the weather.

Retractable screens

If you are worried that sliding flyscreen doors will block the view, consider retractable screens. They disappear when not in use and make a big difference to how you open up your home.

Retractable screens suit sliding, bifold and stacking doors, so you can keep insects out on summer evenings without losing the open, indoor-outdoor feel. Outdoor blinds and awnings can do the same job for alfresco areas, adding shade and shelter from the wind.

Alfresco cooking

An outdoor kitchen is a great way to get more use out of your yard. Choose outdoor cabinetry and cooking equipment made to handle the weather.

Plan the layout like an indoor kitchen, with bench space beside the barbecue, a sink if you can fit one, and storage for utensils and outdoor dining ware. Positioning it close to the indoor kitchen makes it easier to carry food back and forth, and a covered roof means it can be used whatever the weather.

Outdoor Floors

Outdoor pavers and low-maintenance composite decking both create a durable, good-looking base for outdoor living. You can compare a wide range of both at the centre.

Pavers come in natural stone, concrete and clay, in finishes that suit everything from a classic courtyard to a sleek, modern pool surround. Composite decking gives the warm look of timber without the regular oiling and sanding, and resists fading, splitting and termites.

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