Dress Up Your Deck

The warm weather and outdoor-entertaining season are finally upon us. Yet, while you may be inspired to fire up the barbie and invite a few friends around, your deck may be looking a little sad after the long wet winter. Getting a resort-like vibe in your alfresco area doesn’t have to take long or cost a fortune. We’ve compiled some quick and easy ways to dress up your deck for the season so you can entertain in style all summer long.

Sweep away all the dirt with a strong bristle brush then use a pressure cleaner (or old-fashioned elbow grease) with a deck-cleaning product to get your planks sparkling. If you have a treated-pine deck, give it a fresh stain or oiling every year or two. Hardwood decking can be left to weather to a chic silvery grey.

Select comfortable outdoor furniture (like this gorgeous Livorno) or soften your old sofa set with plenty of cushions. You’ll entice your friends to linger longer while also creating a private paradise for your family to enjoy on balmy afternoons.

Create privacy with a timber lattice, tall ferns or garden screen. It’s easier to relax with a book, catch some rays or enjoy a wine with a friend when you aren’t being ogled by the neighbours. How easy it would be to relax on this Byron sofa set all afternoon with some cool summer drinks and your best friend.

Dress up your deck with seasonal pops of colour to parade your personal style. Outdoor rugs, cushions, ottomans, statement side tables and armchairs can add so much allure. They can even be themed and rotated with the seasons. How cute is this Poppit side table / stool beside Marien rug?

Having a great mix of seating options – such as dining chairs, armchairs and bench seats – provides the versatility of being able to be moved around for barbecues and family gatherings. The Ripple chair is pictured here with the Kennett Cross Leg table and bench seat. The new Mix & Match packages offer so much versatility.

A simple way to create that blissful ‘Bali beach bar’ atmosphere, outdoor lights, lanterns and candles are so enchanting in alfresco settings, while festoon lights can really set a magical scene. Add some citronella candles to your shopping list for when picking up your dinner supplies to ensure a mozzie-free night.

Dress up your deck with hanging plants, potted flowers or even a vertical garden with fresh herbs and veggies. Not only will you get that lush vibe to transport you to your favourite destination, plants are proven to be calming and they make us feel happier. Artificial plants also offer ambience, yet without the upkeep.

Stylish garden statues and wall hangings can add so much character to your alfresco-entertaining area. And undercover outdoor mirrors are amazing – they reflect the surrounding greenery and light, like windows into secret gardens. These two mirrors are from our new Treasures collection.

Quickly becoming a staple for Australian outdoor living, a fire pit sets an immediate scene for some marshmallow toasting with the kids beneath the stars – even when it’s crisp outside. Add a snuggly throw and you could chit-chat for hours or lose yourself in a bestseller.

Make your own moonlight cinema by fastening a sheet to the fence to entertain the kids with a Shrek movie marathon from a smartphone projector. A simple but effective solution for keeping the little people amused as you savour your steak and shiraz with friends.

Ready to dress up your deck?

For more ideas, check out our tips on entertaining in style, browse our new outdoor range online or visit us in person at your local Early Settler store. Our friendly team is always there to lend a hand with styling advice and practical information. And don’t forget to check out our new Mix & Match options to customise your alfresco dining set your way at great package-deal prices.