Whether you live in a bustling capital city or just a cooee from the local beach, a relaxing backyard is always a welcome retreat. Somewhere to kick up your feet, read a book, and bask in the sunshine — all in the privacy of your own space.
To make this dream a reality, we’ve compiled our top DIY ideas to transform your alfresco areas into a coastal haven. Using outdoor brand Tuscan Path’s range of pebbles, pavers, garden edging and backyard décor, you can easily create a practical, low-maintenance, and aesthetic garden.
Your garden makeover skills could even win you a share in $30,000 in cash, prizes, and a feature in our magazine. In partnership with Tuscan Path, we are searching for the Garden of the Year, including Best Residential Garden, Best Small Space Garden and Young Gardener of The Year. For more information and to enter, visit bhg.com.au/GOTY.
Keep reading for ideas to design your own beach-inspired landscape at home.
Pathway to heaven
A meandering garden trail is a hallmark of coastal landscapes. Winding pathways and stepping stones create a journey through your backyard, and are even better when they lead to a bright blue pool or an outdoor pergola. Use natural stone pavers for a laidback look, or stylish designer pavers to channel coastal chic. Tuscan Path pavers are tough and durable, meaning they can withstand harsh Australian conditions.
Pebble power
The easiest way to inject some seaside style into your backyard is with decorative pebbles. Whether polished or natural, use pebbles in garden beds, pot toppers, or along pathways to add texture and a pop of unexpected colour. Fun fact: pebbles are also a great way to prevent moisture loss in garden beds, as they act as mulch and weed suppressors. We love décor that works double duty!
Easy breezy screens
Coastal backyards provide plenty of spaces to entertain and unwind. And an outdoor room — like a covered courtyard, outdoor lounge, or patio — extends your living areas into your backyard, so you can make the most of the sunny outdoors.
A clever way to design an outdoor room on a DIY budget is with garden screens. Stunning screens are the perfect way to create secluded areas and add decorative accents. At Tuscan Path, the garden screens are all made from durable weathering steel and available in beautiful nature-inspired patterns.
Garden edging
Beautiful garden beds are a must-have for framing a seaside vista, pathways, trees, or striking pools. Keep your gardens sleek and undemanding with affordable edging. Garden edging can be fitted to both straight and curved spaces and are super easy to install.
Green thumb
Incorporating verdant greenery is the key to taking alfresco areas from ordinary to an oasis. Bonus points if they’re robust tropical plants or flowers, such as vibrant palms, elephant ears or climbing jasmine. Tuscan Path offers a contemporary selection of outdoor pots in a variety of colours and sizes, textures and materials. From round white bowls to black egg-shaped pots, there’s something for every garden.