When it comes to sprucing up the home, the veranda is often left last on the priority list. However, we’re here to change that train of thought! The verandah of any home can be an incredibly versatile space and one that should most definitely be maximised to its highest potential.
A verandah is the perfect spot for a bit of alfresco entertaining and can truly be transformed into the heart of the home when given a little tender loving care. Today, we look at seven ways you can make the most of your verandah by taking it to the next level with a few simple yet effective upgrades and additions. Without further ado, let’s get cracking.
1. Warm It Up
If you live in a country or city that experiences cold winters, you may be under the impression that the veranda is only a viable spot for dining and entertaining in the warmer months of the year. If you are looking to maximise your verandah’s year-round potential, the best thing you can do is to invest in an outdoor heater. A heater will transform your space even in the coldest of months, offering a warm and toasty environment for fun, relaxation and leisure activities.
When it comes to heating options, there are plenty to choose from. Our personal favourite, however, comes in the form of an electric strip heater that provides an efficient way of using the surface area for effective heat transfer. If you’re wondering where to buy a Heatstrip heater, you’re in luck because all you have to do is visit your local Bunnings where you’ll find everything you need to turn your veranda into a toasty paradise.
2. Let There Be Light
The key to choosing the best lighting options for your verandah is to know how your verandah will be used. If you’re someone who enjoys grilling on the barbecue or sitting down with a good book in the evening, task lighting is an absolute must. Angled spotlights work well for the purpose, while fairy lights, wall sconces and pendant lights offer ambient lighting and a romantic and cosy feeling.
Another option you can look into is path lights that not only offer aesthetic charm and appeal but also create added security and safety for your property.
3. Invest In Outdoor Dining Furniture
If you have a sizeable veranda that is capable of doubling up as your very own entertainment hub, we highly recommend investing in outdoor furniture. Our top pick when it comes to outdoor dining is to look for a long dining table that will allow you to seat a number of guests when you’re hosting dinner parties and barbecues.
When choosing an outdoor dining set, be sure to look out for weather-resistant furniture to minimise the need for upkeep. Aside from the added practicality, outdoor furniture can also have a great influence on the overall appearance of your verandah.
4. Install A Wall-Mounted Television
Nothing beats cuddling up under a warm blanket and watching your favourite TV shows or movies with your loved ones. This is why we are in love with the idea of installing a wall-mounted television within your verandah as a fantastic way to enhance your outdoor entertainment to a whole new level. The great news is that almost any modern television can be great outdoors as long as it is protected in a weatherproof TV shield which will protect your unit from the elements, bugs and more. To find out more about how to mount a TV outdoors, be sure to check out this handy guide.
Expert tip: Be sure to mount your TV at least six feet above a fire pit, fireplace or BBQ grill to prevent possible heat damage.
5. Refresh Your Landscaping
If you really want to bring your verandah to the next level, refreshing your landscaping is a must. You can do this in a variety of ways, and we encourage you to use your creativity when it comes to planting different privacy offering trees, shrubs and flowers around the perimeter of your space.
The verandah can also be a perfect spot for a variety of indoor plants as well, thanks to the shade that your structure offers to block out the harsh rays of the afternoon sun. Consider purchasing hanging baskets and attractive planters to house a variety of different shade-loving flowers, plants and succulents that are guaranteed to beautify your space with minimal effort.
6. Install A Water Feature
Don't you have your very own swimming pool? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Nothing transforms your verandah into a sanctuary quite like the meditative sound of running water. Aside from bringing you to a place of complete Zen, a water feature is the easiest way to cool your verandah in summer and can act as a natural way to air condition your space.
Adding a water feature can enhance your outdoor space as a whole and with so many great designs available on the market, you are guaranteed to find an option that will suit any budget, size, or style that you are after. To find out more about the benefits of including a water feature to your space, be sure to check out this article.
7. Keep It Comfy
This goes without saying, but it is important to ensure that your verandah is a comfortable place to be. Otherwise, chances are you won’t stick around for long and your gorgeous space will go to waste. Increasing your veranda’s comfort level can be as simple as adding some fluffy cushions to your outdoor dining chairs or even investing in a small deck sofa that you can layer up with cushions, throw pillows, and an ottoman to create the ultimate space for relaxation.
Oh, and don’t forget to create a bug-free zone as well. The last thing you want is to be enjoying an afternoon nap, only to have it ruined by mozzies and flies. You can keep the critters away by planting bug repellent plants, burning citronella torches or even installing a retractable fly screen. At the end of the day, think about what makes you at ease, and be sure to include those things in your verandah design.
And there you have it – seven steps that are guaranteed to transform your verandah from drab to fab. What are some of your favourite ways to maximise your verandah or deck’s potential? Be sure to leave a comment and let us know.
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