Designing Outdoor Spaces for Your New Home Build

In New Zealand, we love the outdoors—it’s part of our way of life. So when you’re building a new home, creating a functional and beautiful outdoor space is just as important as getting the interior right.

Whether you want a space for relaxing, entertaining, or enjoying time with family, designing outdoor areas that enhance your lifestyle can make a big difference. At Location Homes, we believe your outdoor space should be a natural extension of your home, bringing together the best of indoor comfort with the beauty of Taranaki’s stunning landscape.

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MaximiSing Indoor-Outdoor Flow

A seamless connection between indoor and outdoor living spaces is key to making your home feel more spacious and welcoming. Large sliding or bi-fold doors that open onto decks or patios create an easy flow between the two areas. This allows you to enjoy the outdoors without losing the comforts of being indoors. In summer, you can open up your home and let the fresh air in, while still being close to all the amenities of your kitchen and living area.

Pro tip: Orient your outdoor space to catch the sun throughout the day—ideal for those long summer afternoons.

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Outdoor Entertaining Areas

At Location Homes, we know how much Kiwis love to entertain, and an outdoor area designed for hosting is a must. A covered patio or pergola allows you to entertain in any weather, while an outdoor dining area paired with a built-in BBQ or kitchen space takes it to the next level.

Consider adding outdoor heating for those cooler evenings, and lighting that sets the mood. Whether you’re hosting family dinners or having friends over for a summer BBQ, an outdoor entertaining area is the perfect way to bring people together.

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Green Spaces and Gardens

Taranaki’s mild climate makes it perfect for growing plants and creating lush green spaces. Whether you’re a fan of low-maintenance native plants or love the idea of a veggie garden, landscaping can transform your outdoor area. Creating garden beds, planting trees, or even adding water features can give your outdoor space a relaxing, natural vibe.

Green spaces aren’t just for looks—having plants and trees around can improve air quality and create a more tranquil, enjoyable environment. Consider planting fruit trees or designing a space for raised garden beds if you want to enjoy homegrown produce.

Private Retreats

Outdoor spaces aren’t just for socialising—they can also be designed to offer peace and relaxation. A private courtyard, tucked-away deck, or quiet garden corner can become your retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. By incorporating natural elements like water features, bamboo fencing, or even an outdoor fire pit, you can create a space to unwind and recharge.

For privacy, think about incorporating screening elements such as hedges, trellises, or well-placed walls to make the area feel like a secluded haven.

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Outdoor Play and Activity Spaces

If you’ve got a family, creating spaces for the kids to play outdoors is a great way to encourage healthy activity and get them outside more often. Think about safe, open areas for running around, a trampoline, or even space for a pool. Adding a multipurpose lawn gives your family room for all kinds of activities, from sports to picnics.

For the adults, a spa pool or fitness area might be the perfect way to unwind or stay active at home. Whatever your needs, building an outdoor space that suits your family’s lifestyle ensures you get the most out of your new build.

Low Maintenance Materials

When designing outdoor spaces, it’s important to choose materials that are not only beautiful but also durable and low-maintenance. At Location Homes, we recommend composite decking, hardwood timbers, and stone for long-lasting outdoor surfaces. These materials withstand the elements and require minimal upkeep, giving you more time to enjoy your outdoor space without constant maintenance.

Choosing the right furniture and outdoor finishes also plays a part in creating a space that looks great year-round. Opt for weather-resistant materials and easy-to-clean furniture that can handle New Zealand’s varying weather conditions.

Sustainability in Outdoor Design

Sustainability is becoming increasingly important, and your outdoor space can be designed with eco-friendliness in mind. Installing rainwater collection systems to water your garden or using solar-powered lighting are great ways to reduce your environmental footprint. You can also choose native plants that thrive in our climate without needing excessive water or fertilizers.

At Location Homes, we’re passionate about helping homeowners build sustainably, and incorporating eco-friendly outdoor elements is a natural extension of that approach.

Create an Outdoor Space That Reflects Your Lifestyle

Your outdoor area should be as thoughtfully designed as the rest of your home. Whether you want a space for entertaining, relaxing, or playing with the family, the right design can enhance the way you live and enjoy your new home. At Location Homes, we’re here to help you design and build homes that factor in outdoor spaces that bring out the best of Taranaki’s lifestyle and make your home truly special.

If you're planning to build a new home, our team is ready to guide you through the process and assist in creating a home that suits your lifestyle perfectly. Don't hesitate to contact us today for a discussion

Your home, inside and out, should be a reflection of how you live—let’s build that together.