How a $20,000 injection could transform your backyard and garden

From edible gardens to shed conversions, these upgrades will help you achieve the Aussie backyard dream.

• This content has been created in partnership with Set For Life.

This content has been created in partnership with Set For Life.

 

 

In Australia, backyards are king – but a patch of grass is old news. We asked three experts how $20,000 could turn an average yard into a year-round oasis while adding value to the home. From edible gardens to shed conversions, these upgrades will help you achieve the Aussie backyard dream.

You could pick up a decent furniture setting for under $3,000.

CREATE A PERFECT OUTDOOR ENTERTAINING SPACE

Setting up a functional, comfortable outdoor space is top priority, as it adds value to your property by creating additional living space. An outdoor kitchen, stylish furniture and beautiful greenery will do the trick.

It’s a move property developer and CEO of LEFTA Group, Steven Chandler, encourages as he finds that, “while most homes have a backyard, very few are thoughtfully laid out to incorporate multiple uses”.

“Having a really good outdoor kitchen set up with an in-built BBQ with cupboards is an absolute no-brainer – and it might only set you back $4-5000,” Steven explains. 

Considering this space will create an extra gathering zone for the family, designer Heather Gampe from Oak and Orange says it’s important to look at indoor-outdoor flow between areas and avoid skimping on furniture and plants. 

“Make sure that the connection between the inside and the outside entertaining is really practical, meaning your outdoor entertaining area should be undercover and weatherproof, so you can get year-long use out of the space,” Heather explains.

Her pick for affordable yet durable weatherproof covering is a pergola with polycarbonate roof sheets as it’s weathertight and allows sunlight in. 

Heather believes you should invest in quality outdoor furniture pieces to ensure they’ll hold up against changing weather conditions and stand the test of time. 

“Nice furniture will make your space beautiful and comfortable, making it an area family want to spend time in and enjoy. You could pick up a decent furniture setting for $2-3000,” she says.

The final touch is ever-important greenery. Heather recommends researching plants to ensure your selections will thrive in your particular environment, but two popular potted choices for Aussies are palms or olive trees. Large, textured pots make an impact, too.

“Some nice big, decorative pots and tall plants will significantly change the feel of an outdoor space,” says Heather. “The bonus is that those pots can be strategically positioned to block out eyesores that lower the appeal of your outdoor area, like fencing or air conditioning units.” 

Plant fruiting trees which will deliver value for you.

START AN INCREDIBLE EDIBLE GARDEN

Giving your green space a purpose means enjoying the literal fruits of your labour, says Steven.

“Permaculture is something to think about. While a little grass is great, it does use water, needs constant maintenance and doesn't provide you with anything but a play space, whereas garden beds can provide food for you all year round,” he explains. 

Steven suggests installing raised planter beds, which are great depending on your age (as it prevents excessive bending) or if you have animals. 

“For an outlay of a couple of thousand dollars, you’ll save water, create food in perpetuity and find a sense of purpose and relaxation.”

Fruiting trees are another excellent multipurpose addition, providing shade while delivering everything from fresh figs, mangoes, apples, avocados, plums and more to your kitchen bench.

“We all need shade in our backyard, and if you have a north, north-west or north-east facing backyard, planting mature fruiting trees allows you to create shade and food at the same time,” says Steven. He also notes this as a drawcard for future buyers, should you ever want to sell.

The firepit offers an opportunity for connection.

LIGHTEN THINGS UP

Take your entire yard to the next level for just a few hundred dollars by installing strategic lighting or a fire pit. 

“At night, landscape lighting can turn an average backyard into a magnificent masterpiece,” says Steven. 

Uplighting by way of stake-mounted lamps and in-ground lamps, “catches the underside of branches and leaves and looks phenomenal,” he adds.

Meanwhile, Heather is a fan of fire pits, having one in her own backyard.

“I think fire pits are great; there's a lot of variety, they’re not that expensive and they encourage outdoor entertaining all year round,” she explains.

But it’s the opportunity for connection that really makes this feature a favourite. 

“It’s really nice to connect with family and friends, toast marshmallows – the best backyards are ones that have inviting spaces to gather, so you’re able to entertain with the people you love.”

The Block’s Deb Saunders recommends using an existing slab for a new backyard build.

CONVERT YOUR BACKYARD SHED INTO A CHARMING GARDEN STUDIO

If you’re happy with your yard but have your sights set on the old backyard shed, design aficionado, The Block’s Deb Saunders, believes using $20,000 on the existing slab can give it a whole new life.

“Ideal for a studio or office, you can do a lot for a little and converting the old shed can add extra space and value,” says Deb.

It’s important to check in with the Building Code of Australia in terms of permits, as regulations will vary between states, usually hinging on the size and purpose of your structure. 

This content has been created in partnership with Set For Life.