Give your patio The Block makeover

For over 10 years, us Aussies have watched the stars of The Block come up with unique decorating and renovating ideas for their spaces. The outdoor areas continue to be a highlight, but how can you replicate them in your own home?

Below you will find out how some of the items used by the Blockheads can be used to redecorate your own patio (links to The Block Shop have also been included so you can shop the look). Who knows, after you’ve completed your reno you may even be ready to sign up for the show yourself!

Ethanol fire pit

Maddie and Jarrod’s (Sky High, 2013) rustic, yet modern design sense inspired them to use the Ethanol Outdoor Fire Pit. This environmentally friendly, perfectly circular dish uses bioethanol instead of traditional wood; thus, involving no smoke and no mess. It’s great for a quick setup when inviting guests over or having an impromptu outdoor romantic dinner.

Garden screen

The Block’s Karstan and Maxine (Glasshouse, 2014) used this Marakesh Outdeco Gardenscreen to outstanding effect. These screens are easy to install for privacy and/or decoration. Their contemporary design consists of geometric patterns influenced by Moroccan art. The durable high-quality garden screen is a simple way to make any backyard pop and features an 80% blackout range; thus, making it a perfect fence, wall or boundary to a patio.

Daybed and cushions

As seen in Josh and Charlotte’s Terrace (Triple Threat, 2015), this waterproof Daybed and Cushions are practical as well as aesthetically pleasing. They come in many different colours and patterns, so can easily be matched with the rest of your furniture.

Green wall

For a refreshing new look, Cityforest Greenwall Pockets can be installed. From the amazing herb garden used in Josh and Jenna’s kitchen (All Stars, 2013), these DIY Greenwall Pockets are simple to set up and add some purpose to your walls. Each pocket contains four pouches that can hold four-to-16 plants. Buy more and join them together to turn a bare patio wall into a luscious flowing green space.

Light panel

The Hippo Skin Light Feature Panel was used by Dale and Sophie (2012) as an outdoor lighting scheme. The stylish contemporary design of the panel added some colour and brightness to the given space. It is powder-coated in orange and comes with a tube light, opal acrylic lining and brackets for hanging.

Angelina fire pit

Featured by Josh and Jenna (2011), the Angelina Fire Pit is a rustic, yet sleek fire pit. It comes in two sizes, 85cm and 110cm, and is made from mild steel. This traditional wood-burning pit is the perfect size to create that nice glow. It’s the ideal addition to a patio that is used to entertain guests or wants a homey feel.

— Marcus is the managing director of Great Aussie Patios, Perth’s leading patio and carport builder since 2000.