Welcome to our long, wet summer

No thanks to La Nina, rain bombs are heading our way.

We have been forewarned – our summer is going to be a long, hot drizzle. No thanks to La Nina, which is a weather pattern that occurs in the Pacific Ocean, rain bombs are heading our way. The Bureau of Meteorology has announced that La Nina is in full swing and likely to hold until early 2023 with heavy periods of rainfall predicted heading into summer.

The bureau’s head of operational climate services, Dr Andrew Watkins, says that typically during La Nina events, rainfall is heavier than normal for eastern, northern and central parts of Australia.

You may have to rethink how you’ll entertain this summer.

“The last significant La Nina was 2010- to-2012. This strong event saw large impacts across Australia, including Australia’s wettest two-year periods on record and widespread flooding.”

Although summer 2022 may be steamy and stormy, it needn’t be a wipe-out when it comes to alfresco entertainment.

How so, you ask? Well, aside from an appropriate shelter like a patio roof or folding arm awning to retract when the sun shines, your outdoor furniture must be able to withstand the elements. Outer co-founder and chief design officer Terry Lin says for summer 2022 it is important to prioritise durable and weatherproof materials.

“Select pieces made from durable materials like aluminium, teak or synthetic resin wicker, which will ensure your space feels modern and elegant, while avoiding the pesky peeling, swelling and rotting that often comes with the harsh Australian elements. Cheap fabrics are also open to damage from the elements, stains and mould so investing in waterproof cushions and covers is a must.”

Outdoor furniture pieces that can easily be relocated under an awning when it rain makes entertaining far easier. (Image: Outer)

Terry also says investing in convertible and double-duty pieces, like a coffee table with storage, to see you though a wet summer when cushions and throws needs to be packed away.

Sitting out in the sunshine is a beautiful thing, but being prepared to shift the gathering undercover when needed should also be a consideration. Lightweight, modular seating that you’re able to quickly rearrange into different configurations in case of rain is ideal.

DINING UNDER THE STARS

Outdoor kitchens have become a major talking point in backyard renovations, but adding this functionality to your alfresco area takes some consideration. The biggest misconception is that whatever appliance features in your indoor kitchen can make an appearance outdoors if it sits undercover. Winning Appliances barbecue and outdoor culinary expert, Russell Crosdale, says that is categorically not the case.

“It is so important to consider the materials you select when products are going to be used outdoors. Opting for marine grade stainless steel appliances, especially for those living by the ocean, can help to ensure your appliances last for a long time. Certain products must not be used outdoors, lest they become damaged, rusted or weathered.”

Even this Traeger Pro Series 22 Pellet Grill (RRP $$1099.95 from Winnings) should be kept undercover.

He also always recommends purchasing outdoor cabinetry.

“These units are weatherproof and great to use outdoors ensuring the product lasts much better over the years. Even if you have purchased products that are recommended for outdoors, it is still best to protect them against the elements.”

Russell says the demand for outdoor kitchens has risen exponentially, with the Covid lockdowns last year inspiring us to invest in our home entertainment.

“With the changes we saw come about in our home and working lives following events of recent years, unsurprisingly, one change we’ve seen is a huge rise in popularity of outdoor kitchens and entertaining spaces.  “We’ve seen outdoor kitchens transform in recent years, from being the corner in the backyard where the barbecue sits, to becoming a fully fledged entertaining space. With more emphasis on outdoor lighting, comfortable seating areas, TV or projector screens and sound systems, and living-centric designs.”

The popularity of outdoor kitchens skyrocketed during Covid.

Since we’ve been able to welcome our favourite people back into our homes, we’ve invested our energy into making our entertaining spaces truly inviting – even La Nina won’t be able to curb our enthusiasm. The most popular dining alfresco items right now include the “outdoor beverage centre,” aka bar fridge, barbecue smokers and marine grade stainless steel outdoor sinks.

Originally published as Welcome to our long, wet summer