An Alfresco Kitchen can be a great addition to your home and you can read more about how to install one and what the perfect alfresco kitchen needs in my previous article. Once you have your outdoor kitchen, you’ll want to maximise this space and ensure it suits the rest of your Garden. Take a look at my top tips for how to match your garden to your alfresco kitchen.

Work from a plan First things first, make sure you have a plan. One of the most important things is to create a masterplan for your garden and stick to it. You don’t want to find that you install an alfresco kitchen but don’t leave space for anything else. To get around this, sit down, map out your dream space, and consult a professional if there’s anything you’re unsure about, or if you want a second opinion. If you’re budget conscious, consider planning your garden in stages. By staging the work, it ensures that your garden is still usable while each stage is being completed, and there’s no rush to get it all done at once.

Alfrescos can be a balancing act The ideal alfresco kitchen area definitely needs outdoor furniture, and a dining table can make this space that much more usable. However, if your outdoor space is on the smaller side, and if your alfresco is situated right next to your internal dining room, then you may be better off, foregoing the outdoor table and instead, opting for a space saving bench with bar stools and a lounge and coffee table. This way, you can still have meals and drinks outside without cluttering the space. Choosing the right flooring options can also make or break the whole feel of the area. Large format tiles can visually make a space feel bigger than it is, whilst decking options can be a great choice if you have timber floors internally, giving you a continued seamless look. Either way, always choose a colour or finish that works with the exterior of the home. The right outdoor furniture, should work beautifully with your home’s décor as it will mostly likely be seen internally. An alfresco is an outdoor room and should be treated like any other room in the house when it comes to styling, careful consideration should be given to aesthetics and function.

Growing herbs and veggies If you cook outside, why not have your own little kitchen garden? A small veggie patch is great for so many reasons. It’s practical for outdoor cooking, home grown produce always seem to taste better and it’s an activity that you can get the kids involved with. Having fresh grown herbs and veggies is a great talking point with guests, and can add the right spice to your new alfresco area.

Install enough lighting When planning your garden, remember the lighting. Nobody wants to barbecue or eat in the dark. There are so many ways you can bring wonderful lighting into your garden. Decorative hanging lights are one of the best ways you can set the mood for any occasion. Coloured lanterns, jar lights and hanging candles are easy to get your hands on and DIY friendly. When selecting your lights, try to go with weatherproof options. Check out more ideas for garden lighting on my Pinterest board.

Anthony Scott

Principal of

Anthony has been an active member of the landscape industry over the last 25 years and as well as running his own business has been involved in garden shows, exhibitions and is currently the co-host of Channel 10’s “The Home Team”. Drawing on his experience as a registered landscape and pool builder, Anthony can offer the best of both worlds when creating and planning outdoor spaces. He takes great pleasure in meeting and working closely with his clients and always feel honoured to be a part of creating and styling personalised, outdoor spaces that not only reflect the individuality of his clients but that also provides a space for them, to enjoy more of the good things in life.