Bring the inside out

Let no space in your home go to waste – embrace the potential of outdoor areas.

Hues like Resene Nullarbor and Resene Spanish White will set the scene for a chic alfresco escape. The right colour palette will transform a bland deck area into a dreamy extension of your indoor sanctuary. The boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces have become more fluid than ever in recent years, no longer is design confined to the four walls of our homes. Designers have become experts at maximising space; living areas are extending seamlessly into open air across the globe. Space is at a premium and designers emphasise that every square inch must earn its keep. Homeowners are looking to optimise every aspect of their properties, including neglected or undervalued outdoor spaces. Conveniently, decks and patios are fantastic areas to make over without breaking the bank.

Alongside blurring the line between indoor and outdoor spaces is a shift towards natural colour palettes and textures. Hues that evoke a sense of serenity like Resene Villa White and Resene Quarter Spanish White and organic textures reign supreme in outdoor design. Pairing earthy tones with stained wood finishes ensure outdoor zones harmonise with their surrounding landscape.

In this deck area, Resene Spanish White and Resene Tiri epitomise the essence of outdoor serenity and create the canvas for our outdoor zone. Resene Spanish White envelops the walls in a luminous embrace, while our wood stain in Resene Tiri adds warmth to the deck. A timber deck is fantastic for indoor outdoor flow, and it’s low maintenance. If your outdoor space is exposed to the elements, Resene wood stains will help protect it from Mother Nature. If you are keen to paint your deck/patio in full colour, opt for a finish like Resene Walk-on flooring and paving paint or Resene Lumbersider Low Sheen waterborne paint.

To infuse this outdoor oasis with a laid-back, boho aesthetic, we leaned into natural textures/fabrics like rattan and cream linen. An oat-toned hammock is inviting and adds dimension to the space, while a side table in the warm neutral Resene Nullarbor complements Resene Spanish White subtly on the walls. A macrame wall hanging in Resene Colorwood Cedar adds rich texture and visual interest to this outdoor scene. We kept the space feeling light and airy by painting the light on the wall in the bright Resene Villa White, and mini plant pots in Resene Quarter Spanish White.

Multiple neutral tones of Resene Villa White, Resene Spanish White, Resene Quarter Spanish White complement each other in this outdoor zone. There are several factors to consider to ensure neutral colours pair seamlessly:

• Understand the undertones of each neutral. Even seemingly similar shades can have subtle undertones that impact how they interact with one another. A colour like the lemony Resene Villa White may have warmer undertones, while Resene Quarter Black White leans towards cooler tones. Pairing neutrals with similar undertones is a safe bet, as colours with compatible undertones tend to blend effortlessly.

• On the other hand, incorporating subtle contrast can add depth to a room , particularly if it’s a small space. Pairing Resene Villa White walls with trim or accents in a slightly brighter white shade like Resene Eighth Spanish White can create a sophisticated yet understated look.

Remember too that the key to great deck design when you’re extending your living space outside is to strike a delicate balance between functionality and aesthetics. While it's tempting to fill every corner with decor and furniture, the best outdoor living spaces are uncluttered and simple. Understanding the purpose of your space is the first step – is it for hosting guests, for you to unwind or to encourage kids to spend time outdoors? Less is often more when it comes to outdoor deck/patio design. The small side table painted in Resene complements this space more so than a large table with the hammock is the star. Keep accessories to a minimum, focusing on a few statement pieces rather than overwhelming the space with too many knick-knacks or chairs.

Blending your outdoor decking seamlessly with its surroundings with plants also aids in creating an uncluttered atmosphere. Integrating greenery softens the space and adds texture without overcrowding it. Introduce potted plants like lush ferns or vibrant succulents to infuse your outdoor oasis with natural beauty. A large plant pot in Resene FX Faux Rust Effect, designed to mimic the natural weathering process, adds a pop of colour and complements the lighter hues in the space.

By thoughtfully curating outdoor spaces, you can unlock the full potential of your home. Creating havens of tranquillity that blur the lines between inside and out can be as easy as refreshing the space with Resene Spanish White and stringing up a hammock. And winter comes around, bring out cosy blankets and an outdoor heater and you’re all set to enjoy your space all year round.

Colours and products mentioned in this article

Styling by Melle Van Sambeek. Photography by Bryce Carleton. 2024