What Exactly is Alfresco?
‘Al fresco’ is an Italian word meaning ‘in the fresh (air)’. In Australia though, we’ve adopted the word to refer to what is now a common feature of our homes: outside dining or outdoor living spaces. They serve as an extension of the home, geared towards our famous passion for the outdoors.
Although technically outside, they share the same roof with the house, distinguishing them from pergolas, decks, verandahs and other outdoor features. Think of an alfresco space as an indoor-outdoor transitional area used most commonly for dining and unwinding.Why Bother Going Alfresco?
If you find yourself struggling to choose between the outdoors and indoors, why not have them both? That’s the beauty of the alfresco element. They allow you to utilise the beauty of the NSW weather whilst retaining the comforts of your home. Enjoy all that the weather may throw at you by staying one step ahead. Even the cooler months from June to August beckon the use of your alfresco space, when heaters and blankets can be introduced to keep the space comfy and attractive.
Extend The Living Space Of Your Wollongong Home
Going alfresco is a fantastic way to make your home feel notably more spacious. Unlike the rooms of your home which are limited by 4 walls and a roof, the alfresco space opens up to the great outdoors, creating an airy expanse unlike anywhere else within the home. Selecting furniture that matches your indoor decor will ensure a seamless and beautiful extension of your home. Make it stand out by opting for large sliding glass doors or even adding beautifully designed wood stairs that create a smooth transition between the indoor and outdoor elements of your home. Whether you have a young family and need the venting space, or like to entertain guests, you’ll find a way to make use of this unique space.
To Bring The Outdoors Home
Alfresco bring the indoors, outside! Maximise your floor plan with a space that contains all the comforts of being inside whilst simultaneously providing the best of the Australian outdoors. A well-designed alfresco area tends to become the favourite area of the home and combat that feeling of being ‘cooped up’. That’s likely why demand for alfresco spaces boomed following the Covid pandemic.
It’s the ideal place for guests too. We all know that Australia does alfresco best; being able to host at home is sure to impress your company!
It’s Good For You
Spending time outdoors offers undeniable benefits for your overall well-being, from regulating cortisol levels and blood pressure to nurturing mental health. By integrating alfresco elements into your home, you bolster your exposure to nature and all its rejuvenating qualities. Better yet, Enjoy the comforts and convenience of indoor living while basking in the healing powers of sunlight and fresh air. When the rain falls, it may be the perfect cue to dust off your favourite book and immerse yourself in its pages, serenaded by the soothing rhythm of raindrops falling above you.
Going al fresco, or into the fresh air, is a brilliant mood-booster. The ability to incorporate this into your everyday routine, right from the comfort of your own home, transcends material value: it’s a priceless addition to life’s pleasures and good for your health. Just look at the Mediterranean nations (which happen to enjoy some of the longest lives on Earth).
Eating & Cooking Alfresco: Your Second Kitchen
In Europe, “alfresco” signifies the pleasure of dining outdoors, embraced by the fresh air. Here in Australia, where we enjoy a blessed climate, this concept resonates deeply. Cities like Sydney and Melbourne boast vibrant al fresco cultures, with numerous outdoor restaurants and cafes dotting their landscapes.
This cultural appreciation for outdoor dining has spurred a growing trend towards integrating alfresco experiences into our own homes. An alfresco feature offers an ideal opportunity to extend our living space, seamlessly merging the indoors with the outdoors. From fully inclusive BBQ setups to inviting pizza ovens, there’s a range of options to enhance your alfresco dining experience.
Why confine yourself to the indoor kitchen when you can be at the heart of the party? With an alfresco setup, you’re not just hosting; you’re part of the festivities. Say goodbye to the separation between host and guests, and hello to a more inclusive and convivial atmosphere.
Will Going Alfresco Increase the Value of My Home?
Australia’s enviable climate makes outdoor living a cherished part of our lifestyle – just ask anyone from a cooler climate. With our love for the great outdoors ingrained in our culture, it’s no surprise that integrating alfresco spaces into our homes is a smart move.
Alfresco areas are not just desirable; they’re in high demand, as reflected in the thriving market for outdoor furniture, which is projected to grow annually by 3.47%. According to Louvre House, incorporating an appealing outdoor space into your home can potentially increase its value by up to 28% and accelerate its sale on the market. But the benefits don’t stop there; alfresco features also attract tenants and elevate potential rental yields for homeowners.
