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Exterior Design Trends for 2023

Now is the perfect time of year to get your outdoor living space in order. Whether you’re looking for a complete remodel or a simple touch-up, we’re here to let you know what to add to your garden in 2023.

Outdoor cooking

You could argue that the backyard BBQ is a quintessential Australian pastime, but outdoor cooking has become much more than that. An outdoor kitchen may include ample bench space surrounded by brickwork and basic storage, or it may be a fully fleshed kitchen on a covered patio. Natural materials like wood and stone take centre stage, and a flexible budget makes it an easy way to spruce up your entertainment space.

The outdoor barbecue is a household staple in many Aussie backyards.

A Gardeon 8-seater black wicker outdoor dining table and chair set.

Multifunctional indoor and outdoor blends

Your backyard is an extension of your home. Not only should you decorate it as such, but 2023 trends are looking to bring the indoors closer to nature. This may be partially thanks to the increased number of employees working from home, but it’s also thanks to the increasing trend of making multifunctional spaces. No matter how big or small your space, having a room that is flexible and easily repurposed at any moment is the perfect solution for entertaining, raising a family, or dealing with changes in the weather.

In 2023, we’ll be seeing more home offices move closer outdoors, whether by incorporating large bay windows with office-friendly tints or even completely moving the office outdoors (undercover). Mudrooms, sunrooms and open laundry rooms are also coming into fashion. No matter how you set up your indoor/outdoor space, allow for plenty of light, ventilation and creative storage.

An open and airy outdoor space that seamlessly transitions the indoor decor to the outdoors.

A Gardeon brown outdoor swinging chair.

Sustainable materials and gardens

It’s no surprise that most trends are leaning towards sustainability, and the backyard is no exception. Aspects of this include planting local flora, using your own compost, choosing drought-resistant plants, upcycling your building materials, and choosing long-lasting furniture made of recycled/repurposed/sustainably grown products.

Another popular way to celebrate sustainability is to eat garden to plate. There’s something incredibly satisfying about growing your own vegetables, especially when you can enjoy them right off the stalk. You don’t have to be a farmer to grow your own produce – herbs are easy to grow, and a great activity for kids to learn about the environment, plant life cycles and more. If you have the space, you can invest in raised garden beds for larger produce and to prevent injuries or pain from bending down. Whatever you choose, there’s no doubt homegrown produce is in season.

Tomatoes are just one of the great foods that you can easily grow at home.

Earthy tones and mixed textures

Green and beige are all the rage this season as earthy tones come back into favour. Natural wood grain colours and textures are also coming back, whether you’re using them as accent pieces or a main feature. Prepared to see exteriors pairing these colours and textures with contrasting materials, such as pairing wood and tile in the entryway.

This wooden outdoor patio with wood furniture is highlighted by the sunset, bringing out rich earthy tones.

A Gardeon brown wood outdoor lounge set with matching table for two.

Making the most of small spaces

Everyone deserves an outdoor escape, and everyone can have one! Make the most of every inch by decorating vertically. Use vertical garden pots or climbing plants to make living walls, make liberal use of cute pots and planters, or break out the classic apartment window box. You don’t need a full backyard to have a garden – you can create a little spot of paradise anywhere with the right equipment.

Use wall mounted pots and climbing plants to create a living wall.

Health and wellness

We’ve all been a little stressed these past few years, so now is the time to carve out your own mindful sanctuary. With such a focus on mindfulness, you’ll love incorporating a zen garden into your backyard design.

Zen gardens are carefully controlled environments with simple features and minimalist furniture and decor. Rock sculptures, a dedicated meditation/relaxation zone, plenty of sand or gravel and a pleasant water feature will help you reach peak harmony with your body and soul.

A Zen style garden features plenty of sand, gravel and rock sculptures for a low maintenance, dedicated relaxation zone.

Popular plants

With sustainability being a key trend for 2023, the trending plants are locally sourced, native, and edible. Perfectly manicured lawns are out, and pollinators are in. Herb gardens are trending in a big way, as they are easy to grow, long-lasting and can be cheaper than supermarket alternatives. We are also developing more sustainable fertilizers and composts, making it easier than ever to care for your plants and the environment.

On the other hand, plant lovers are embracing exotic plants that can handle warm, dry climates. Succulents are still incredibly popular, since they’re not only low-maintenance but require little watering.

Popular plant predictions for 2023 include monstera, orchids, alternathera, agave, birds of paradise and cat palm.

Native and locally sourced plants help create a flourishing backyard.

Gardeon has you covered for everything outdoors in 2023. From décor to furniture sets, we will help you achieve your dream garden from window to living wall. Check out our full catalogue online today.

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