Key Elements Of Lighting And Heating Your Outdoor Living Spaces

As hot summer days melt into cooler autumn nights, it’s time to take stock of your outdoor living spaces at home. To create a warm and welcoming winter vibe, begin with the key elements of lighting and heating

- Carrol Baker

New options in lighting and heating are wowing designers this winter, with a plethora of different styles and fresh new looks to tempt homeowners who enjoy the great outdoors at home.

THE HEAT SOURCE

Creating an outdoor haven that can be enjoyed all year round is a must for those who love outdoor living at home. On chilly winter nights, outdoor heating plays a huge part in making that a reality. Outdoor fires are warm and inviting, setting the scene for entertaining at home. You can gather your friends, fire up the barbecue, and open up a bottle of red wine while you toast your toes by a cosy fire.

Jeff Collins, national commercial sales manager at Real Flame, says while there are many different types of heating fuel sources, gas has always been a popular choice due to its easiness and natural-looking flame. “It’s a good source of heat and there’s no mess,” he says. Innovative gas fireplaces offer a beautiful contemporary focal point in an outdoor space, many replicating the look of a wood fire. Gas fires offer stylish, contemporary good looks coupled with practicality.

European-style gas fires are filtering into Australian homes with their distinctive design flair. With myriad colours and a vast array of shapes beyond the traditional box shape, some offer lighting and often Wi-Fi connectivity-controlled access.

Electric is another popular choice. Jeff says electric is often used when the area is well protected from the elements. “It’s good due to easy installation and no flue requirements,” he says. “And if you are tight for space, electric options are generally much smaller in depth and height.”