Whether you’ve found your forever home or simply love that holiday-at-home feeling, there are plenty of reasons why it makes sense to invest in transforming your backyard into an oasis. Imagine stepping out into your garden each morning, coffee in hand, and feeling like there’s nowhere else you’d rather be. To help you achieve that, we’re delving into the top ways to design an outdoor space that exudes resort-level luxury.
From architectural blade fencing to unique water features, find our tips on how you can create a tranquil and luxe outdoor area.
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Statement architectural fencing
Sounds boring but creating a luxe backdrop for your outdoor area can totally transform your backyard into a private resort oasis. As well as providing a range of functional benefits — privacy, security and even acoustic benefits — a well-chosen fence also sets the tone for your outdoor space.
Think beyond standard options and opt for something more contemporary and architectural. Blade fencing is a fab choice — its sleek, contemporary lines deliver privacy without blocking airflow or light.
This style of fencing suits the minimalist yet luxurious design that has been popular in resorts over the last few years. But it’s also versatile enough to pair with boho or traditional aesthetics. Use it as a simple, elegant backdrop and layer in contrasting textures and materials for a space that feels stylish and thoughtfully curated.
Indoor and outdoor flow
Something resorts have in common is spacious, open-plan layouts that seamlessly extend living space into the outdoors. Otherwise known as achieving indoor outdoor connection, or biophilic design, it’s all about seeking a connection to the outdoors from within built environments.
While most of the tips in this article are about to create a resort style backyard, we want to put this design concept at the forefront of your thinking so you can consider how your design will be appreciate from within. Planning a beautiful water feature? Maximise how you’ll appreciate it by giving it line of sight from within your home as well.
Blur the boundaries between the inside and outside of your home with features like floor-to-ceiling glass, large bi-fold or sliding doors, level flooring in similar materials, and design lines that flow seamlessly (such as an indoor kitchen that connects to an outdoor one).
Lush landscaping and layered greenery
When we think of resorts, we immediately think of lush, luxury landscaping. Choose tropical plants with rich, glossy foliage, and look for ways you can envelop your space in greenery, such as with a vertical garden or moss wall. A few mature plants, like palm trees or established banana leaf palms, are always a welcome addition.
If your climate doesn’t suit tropical plants, you can use native plants so long as you layer your space with tall and short plants to create visual depth.
Glowing outdoor lighting
Lighting is one of our favourite ways to set mood, especially outdoors! Consider all 3 layers of lighting, including ambient, task and accent lighting. Ambient lighting establishes the overall mood of the space and sets a comfortable atmosphere, providing illumination without being overly bright. Task lighting, as its name suggests, provides a bright light for doing tasks. While accent lighting highlights particular design features, such as uplighting a tree or adding lighting within a water feature.
For a resort-like feel, aim to achieve ambient lighting — think festoon lighting, garden path uplighting, or recessed deck lighting. When deciding between warm or cool lights, we always suggest warm tones for a more relaxed and inviting atmosphere.
Luxury outdoor furniture
Day beds, sun loungers, hammocks and deck chairs, there’s an array of outdoor furniture that oozes resort vibes.
To really hit the brief, look beyond standard furniture stores and seek out those that specialise in luxury outdoor furniture. Or perhaps you could even get something custom made?
Resort-style furniture is generally more elevated than standard outdoor furniture. It’s larger, cushions are more plush, fabrics are more durable, structures are protected… you get the idea!
Tranquil water features
There’s something about the sound and sight of water that instantly has a calming effect. Whether you prefer a pond, fountain or reflecting pool, a water feature evokes feelings of relaxation and introduces positive Feng Shui energy.
Consider the best placement of your water feature — ideally you’ll enjoy it from indoors and out, position it in a safe area, and avoid it being in direct sunlight all day as this can cause algae growth.
Fire elements for warmth and ambience
Finally, fire elements like fire pits, outdoor fireplaces, or gas fire bowls adds a sense of warmth — aesthetically and practically! These elements can function as a gathering place and visual anchor. If you choose a stylish fire pit, you can use it as a decor piece and keep it on display all year round. To maximise the space, include added seating or oversized cushions.
Has this article inspired you to give your outdoor space a resort-style uplift? Or perhaps there’s another design element you think should have made the list? Chat with us in the comments below.
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