One of our very favourite contributors to the blog is the delightful Christine Ghrayche from One x One Interiors. Christine operates One x One Interiors in Orange and offers individually tailored interior design and architectural services to her clients.

Christine is a passionate lover of all things design and has a brilliant ability to see the beauty in the everyday. She is a mother of two, a coffee addict and wine lover.

We are delighted to have Christine and her knowledge onboard. So if you have any design questions, Christine is your go to!

Creating your perfect outdoor oasis… and making it cold weather friendly

The outdoor room has always been a space where people have loved to gather and enjoy with family and friends or even just to relax alone during our Aussie Summers, but unfortunately our outdoor space tends to get a little neglected when the temperature gauge starts making its descent, and the recent apocalyptic weather we have been experiencing lately certainly hasn’t helped.

So, do we want to enjoy our outdoor space for longer? Of course we do.

Over the years the exterior of our homes has been transformed by the design industry to become so much more than just a backyard, it is now an extension of our living space, so it has to be beautiful, it has to be functional, and it has to be winter friendly so that we can enjoy it for longer and these tips can help.

Image: Rob Kennon Burnley House

Outdoor Design Tip 1. Shelter

Creating a shelter over part or all of your outdoor space has to be one of the most effective ways maximise the functionality of your space and there are many options available, such as the image below, which not only protects you from the elements, but also allows the light and sun shine through as it features glass panels over-head.

Outdoor Design Tip 2. Layers

Image: Pinterest

Layering up your outdoor space with cushions and blankets can instantly create a cosy and warm environment for you to enjoy, and who doesn’t love a fluffy cushion to snuggle. Simply injecting a few soft furnishings also allows you to inject your own personality through the fabric prints and textures, and is a great option if you are a little budget conscious.

Image: Pinterest

Fire has always been one of those things that people tend to gravitate towards, like a moth to a flame, and if you have the space then you can’t go past the addition of a fire-pit, as they are not only beautiful to admire but also (and obviously) fantastic for warmth. Fire-pits can also vary in design to become multi-functional, for example some can be converted into an outdoor coffee table.

Regardless of how big or small your space is there is always a solution, and if you would like some help in working out that solution contact me for a consultation.