Turn your patio into the ultimate cinema
 
As amazing as cinemas are, they do come with some disadvantages: the price of a ticket and the food is always increasing, you have to drive or pay for transport to get there, and chances are there will always be someone who talks or eats loudly, or even worse, that person who leaves their phone on. If you love the seventh art, or simply like spending a nice moment watching a movie in the comfort of your own home, you will be thrilled to know that you can turn your patio into the ultimate cinema in a few steps, and at a reduced cost.
 
Take a look how it’s done:
 
 
The screen
If you want a permanent setup, then investing into a retractable projector screen is the ideal solution. If you don’t have a wall to attach a pull down projector screen to, then the portable or inflatable ones are a great idea. Otherwise, if you prefer doing it on a tight budget, there are still plenty of solutions for you, although some of them do involve some DIY - A thick white sheet (preferably clean and ironed!) could do the trick. You might want to be careful if your patio is not sheltered from the wind as a sheet may move during the screening. You can make a wooden frame for it (tutorials online). Additionally, you can get ambient outdoor blinds installed. They’ll block out the elements so you can watch your movie without those interruptions.
 
The projector
 
-       The image
Choosing the perfect projector is the most important step - and it might also be the most expensive. Depending on your needs and how sensitive you are to image quality, a quality projector would be an investment.
Next, jotting down some measurements of your patio is important, as the distance from the projector to the screen WILL matter. Where do you want to put your projector, will you use a stand, a table or some blocks to prop it up?
When looking at projectors, if you are not particularly tech-savvy, don’t spend too much time studying the technical characteristics of the products. Simply focus on the most important factors: resolution (high definition will have the image looking sharp, even on a big screen!), luminosity level (in lumens), which is important when projecting a film in the dark, and contrast (a higher contrast means a clearer image, brighter colours and deeper blacks).
 
-       The wiring
Using WiFi would be the ultimate way to go! Your installation will gain in fluidity, although you do need a strong internet signal to stream directly with the projector. An amplifier is perfect if your router is far away from your patio. A WiFi enabled projector will allow you to sign in onto apps such as Netflix, access your film library through Amazon Instant Video or Google Play. Other projectors will allow you to diffuse straight from your phone if they are iOS/Android compatible. Otherwise, use an HDMI cable to plug in your laptop, or audio/video jacks to plug into your DVD player.
 
-       The sound
Thinking about the sound - look at whether the projector is Bluetooth compatible, as this will reduce the numbers of wires running around. Using the projector’s built-in speakers - if applicable - is not recommended for an outdoor cinema as it might not have the best sound quality. Instead, you can use a Bluetooth sound bar or speaker. If you already have speakers (from your computer for example), your projector should have an Audio out port plug so you can use those. However, if you want to have the ultimate home cinema experience, you can invest in a surround sound system.
 
The setting
Even though technology is the basis for an outdoor cinema, do not forget about the ambiance! Once you have made the final technical arrangements and checked that everything is working smoothly, you need to set up the rest of your “cinema”.
In terms of seating, make your outdoor movie theatre extra comfy by using outdoor bean bags and seats, topped with cushions and thick blankets. Fairy lights and candles can add a lovely touch to your zone. On a less romantic note, bug spray and citronella candles can also come in handy. Last but not least, make sure you’ve got plenty of popcorn and lollies ready to roll when the movie does!
 
Now you know how to turn your patio into the ultimate cinema, what are you waiting for? If however, if you still need to get a patio built, call the Gold Coast patio professionals at In Style Patios and Decks on 0436 007 776. We want to help you live better outdoors!

Summer will be back around before we know it, so it’s always best to be ready to enjoy the heat as soon as it touches down. Having comfortable and stylish outdoor furniture can be a great way to really give your outdoor space a renewed and fashionable look.

The Furniture
Do you have a specific purpose for your open-air living area? Choosing fittings can be super fun and help you create the environment you desire. Selecting the perfect fittings can really make your zone functional and inspiring. Depending on your vicinity, you may want to decorate with a theme. Or you might want to style to serve a purpose, like entertaining or relaxing. Whatever your wish, you can create a rousing or relaxed outdoor space with just a few essential pieces.
First, consider the aspiration of your area and the type of seating that will be required. Will you need outdoor lighting? Do you want to use this spot when the temperatures begin to dip again in winter? Will it be used for an intimate environment, or for entertaining? Once you have the answers, you’ll be closer to your decision on the furnishings. There are so many options including soft external lounge suits, and tables to consider. You will want to contemplate colour and ensure you are providing the type of seating that is both weather-proof and modish.
If you plan to use this space all-year-round, you might want to think about a heating / cooling source. There are many options for these as well. You can choose a standalone gas heater which exudes heat of 360 degrees. Otherwise you may prefer overhead heating which directs the warmth towards the area desired. Additionally, a ceiling fan is always a win to have as they can make it feel 6-8 degrees cooler. No matter your budget, a heating / cooling is an excellent addition to make your outdoor space tasteful and functional.

Creating the Zone
Creating an alluring area is equally important and can be easily accomplished with twang colours.
Some of the best colours to make this area appealing are shades in blue and green, or neutrals. Choosing soft, warm colours will compliment this space for a relax feel. Too much colourful or busy patterns can be vibrant, but can lose the calming effect. Furthermore, bright and lively colours will play more of an energetic vibe.

The view
It is important to consider the view when planning your outdoor space. Sprucing it up with chic furniture for the summer is an excellent idea. However, you must take into account your patio view before finalising your theme. For instance, if your patio faces your neighbour’s house, your zone will want another focal point to draw attention away from the surrounding homes. Consider a feature garden or ornamental piece to pull your outdoor area focus.
Conversely, if you have a beautiful, scenic view of water or other landscaping, you may wish to position the fittings to include the view. You may also wish to provide colour hues that accompany the view - greens and tans to bring in the landscaping or blue tones to compliment a water view.

Pick and Choose
Create pathways with plant placements. This will help navigate your guests to the area of entertainment. A good way to create natural trails is to line the walkway with planters or benches. A slightly curved paved path, lined by ground cover is another excellent way to direct traffic to your focal point.

A perfect addition to any outdoor space is a fountain or statue. They can definitely set the mood and a great feel. If you have a smaller spot, you may accent with a tabletop fountain or sculpture for the same effect. Having a centrepiece can provide focus and make your zone homey and inviting.With just a little planning and vision, this could be your new favourite zone in your home.

If you need the Gold Coast patio experts to build you a new patio or pergola, contact In Style Patios and Decks on 0436 007 776. We’ll provide you with a free no-obligation quote, and talk you through our extensive range of options. 

Building a patio in your backyard is often on many peoples 'To do' list. However, more often than not, it's one of those things we dream of doing but never quite get around to it. In this article we look at the 5 main benefits of adding a patio to your home. Furthermore, we discover how you and your family will reap the perks. This could finally give you that nudge towards getting that patio you’ve always dreamed of.
 

• Increase the value of your home
  

One of the obvious and main benefits to building a patio is that they can help to increase the value of your home by adding another living area. A good, functional and well-kept backyard is an attractive prospect to any home buyer. These days, very few things can add hard value to your home greater than an outdoor living area, such as a patio or deck. This additional curb appeal often helps houses sell faster than usual. Additionally, sellers have noted its popularity rise as a sought after feature to new buyers.
 

• Enjoy any kind of weather outdoors
  

A patio can provide a tranquil outdoor space, free for you to use at your disposal. Forget the days when you had to pack the car and drive to a park, only to get rained out. A good patio provides this space for you to use at a moment’s notice. Relax in your own garden instead, and enjoy the easy nature of your outdoor space.
 

• Enable friends and family gatherings
  

A massive benefit to owning a patio is that it provides a perfect space to entertain large groups of people in the privacy of your own home. Whether friends or family, a patio provides a relaxed comfortable space to spend time with those you love. Having an appealing, open-air space for everyone to relax in, enables you to have people over without the hassle of shoes, food and mess being dragged through your home.
 

• Less lawn maintenance
  

If you are not the most avid of gardeners, this plus really is a good one – an outdoor patio means less lawn space you have to spend money on. Also, less time being consumed on the cutting and maintenance of it each week. Of course, a lovely large lawn looks great to some, but is it really the best way to utilise your space? Which leads nicely on to...
 

• Increase your living space
  

One of the biggest blessings to adding a patio to your home is that it actually extends your living space. A good patio isn't just a feature of your backyard, it adds an additional room to your home. These days the design and function of a patio can be designed to maximise your living potential, which can include the addition of sofas, games areas, BBQ’s with kitchens and so much more. Whatever you use your patio for, be sure to exhaust the possibilities of its potential and cater it to your family’s needs. The opportunities are endless!
 
So whichever point benefits you the most, or maybe it’s a combination of a few of them, take that next step and start planning your future patio today! Contact the Gold Coast patio experts at In Style Patios and Decks today on 0436 007 776 to arrange for one of our design consultants to work with you to create a standout living area at your place.

People look forward to different things when summer is around the corner. One thing that a number of us look forward to, is sitting outside in our very own outdoor patio. When the sunshine is out, there’s nothing better than to chill outside with a nice cold drink, perhaps a book, and of course your nearest and dearest.  
 
Let’s delve in and take a look at the things you should know before building a patio:

Position

A common mistake is to assume that the place for a patio is always adjoining the house. It’s obvious, right? You leave your back door, and step right onto the patio. But this doesn’t have to be so, and in fact the aspect is more important.
 
For instance, you should always consider the position of the sun. If the far corner of your garden catches the sun when it’s at its peak, will this be a good thing or a bad thing for you? Do you want to soak up all its rays, or would you rather be sitting in the shade?

Size

Size is a key factor. While some choose to shop around and get measurements for the furniture of their future patio before building. Then, others prefer to get the patio built, then go out and buy the furniture they want.  
 
Be sure to plan ahead. If there’s that 10 seater wicker table and chairs you’ve always wanted, make sure your patio is big enough for that and plenty of moving space.

Access

Access is a crucial part of the planning process, and it depends on how much you plan to use the patio, as well as what you will be using it for.
 
For instance - I knew that my family and I would be eating out on our patio regularly in the summer time. This is exactly why we located it near the kitchen. Had it be built at the other end of the garden, it wouldn’t be as convenient to use so often.
 
Have a think about how often you plan to use it and what you want to use it for.

Blending

Patios don’t always have to dominate your garden. Occasionally, they can blend in and be a part of it instead. Some people choose to avoid bold colours and patterns. While others welcome it!
 
If you’re unsure about what looks good, a professional patio builder will know and be able to make the choice for you.
 
Our team at In Style Patios and Decks have a highly skilled crew who will make sure you select the perfect patio for your home. We have patio designs that will suit any style of house. So you can be sure to get the best suited patio for your property. Call our team today on 0436 007 776 and let us know what you envision.

If your home is in need of some privacy from prying neighbours, then read on…
 
In a world where everyone seems to be under intense scrutiny thanks to the rise of social media, surveillance networks and Google Street View, it seems almost impossible to get any privacy anymore. People tend to know what you ate for dinner and how you take your coffee.
 
Your home should be your castle and your own private retreat. Somewhere you can return to at the end of the day to enjoy some downtime. But often, even this seems to be too much to ask.
 
If you want to be able to hide away from peeping eyes, let’s take a look at ways of creating privacy for your home.
 
Lace Curtains
 
You don’t want to draw the curtains during the daytime and block out the sunlight because that can get depressing. Furthermore, you don’t want the kids playing ball in the street to see you watching Netflix either.
 
So why not go for some middle ground?
 
Lace curtains look great, they let the sunshine through into your home, and they also prevent people from looking into your window. This gives you solitude without giving up the sunlight.
 
If you’re not fond of lace curtains, you can opt for shades, drapes or even shutters.
 
Plant Evergreens (trees and shrubs)
 
Erecting a fence is totally within your rights, but if you’d prefer not to you could plant evergreens instead. Evergreens are natural, great to look at, and they preserve your privacy in a much more subtle way than a tall, unsightly fence.
 
Build A Courtyard
 
A courtyard might sound like a rather elaborate way of creating privacy for your home, but its super effective. A courtyard also improves the aesthetic of your front yard. Moreover, it alters the layout of the front of your house so that your window is no longer the centre of attention.
 
Additionally, courtyards make people stop and think twice before peeking, being more difficult to see everything.
 
Fountains
 
Creating privacy is not just about keeping out spying eyes - it’s also about preventing others from eavesdropping.
 
Fountains are a pretty spectacular way of preventing your neighbours from listening in on your conversations. They also beautify your garden and give you, your friends and family something pleasant to look at and listen to.
 
Pergolas and patios
 
If you opt for a pergola or patio you can easily create an enclosure that gives you privacy when you want to enjoy some time outdoors.
 
Additions such as these, can be embellished with vines, hanging baskets, and bright colours, and they can help to aestheticise your yard while creating solitude for your home. Outdoor blinds work wonders too!
 
Outdoor Blinds

Ambient outdoor patio blinds allow you to turn your alfresco area into an outdoor room in an instant. Creating a discrete environment, but allowing you to see everything. 

Having a slim profile, and available in colours that suit your existing surrounds, Ambient Blinds create seamless indoor-outdoor living 365 days a year.
 
Creating privacy for your home is absolutely possible. If you’re leaning towards a pergola or patio, contact the pro’s at In Style Patios and Decks on 0436 007 776. We want to help you live better outdoors and give you the privacy you desire.

By adding a patio to your home you will increase its value, have somewhere great to entertain, and you also acquire another living area for you and your family to enjoy. When the time comes to decide which style of patio you want, consider an opening sun roof. These roofs are utilise aluminium louvres that can open and close.

Here are the biggest reasons why you should install an opening sunroof patio at your home this summer.

Convenience
Having a roof that opens and closes, you can literally sit back, relax, and use the remote to get the roof to do as you wish without having to get up. Keep the louvres open if you’re wanting the breeze and sun to shine through. Then, simply closed them to keep the wind and rain out. You can effectively control the weather environment in your patio at all times. Adjust as you please!

Automated rain sensor
The Stratco Outback Sunroof includes a rain sensor to automatically close the louvres when it detects the first sign of rain. This is a particularly handy feature for times when you’re out. Which works extremely well when you have outdoor furniture that isn’t water proof.

Reduce heating and cooling costs
As the sunlight can be blocked out, your patio will stay cooler in summer time. Then, in winter you can let a little sunlight in to heat things up. Furthermore, your electricity bill will be considerably reduced, as you won’t have to use other means for heating and cooling your patio area.

Add value to your house
A patio always adds value to a home! However, an opening sunroof patio will add even more to it. When and if the time comes to sell, the sunroof feature will be one of those little extras that make your home so much more attractive to buyers.

Extra living space
An opening sunroof patio will ensure you are able to use it during any type of weather and during all four seasons. Having it fully open at any time will give you the sensation of being outdoors. But you can quickly modify the opening any time if the weather quickly changes without interrupting your occupation. Your kids can use your patio any time, and not be restricted to playing indoors during rainy conditions.

All these reasons to install an opening sunroof patio to your home make good sense as they will add value, convenience and functionality. The advantages are endless!

Experience ultimate versatility with an opening roof at your home this summer. Why wait? Contact the patio experts at In Style Patios and Decks today on 0436 007 776.

Since it is now approaching the beginning of summer on the Gold Coast, it is essential to consider ways to stay comfortable in the extreme heat. This is particularly true for the outdoor areas of your home. Without proper planning and design, it will become quite difficult to spend time outdoors when the heat gets into the 30’s this summer. Many properties have stunning views on the Gold Coast, and homeowners that plan properly will be able to remain cool during the heat while still enjoying the beautiful scenery that the Gold Coast has to offer. When trying to make plans for your patio and outdoor space, consider these three tips for keeping your patio and outdoor space cool this summer:
 

• Install an Outdoor Fan or Install a Misting System:

 
If you already have a deck installed, then it is absolutely possible to have the wiring installed to have a misting system or an outdoor fan. These are both great ways to be able to sit on your deck when it is really hot outside and feel some relief. If you have proper shading plus either a fan or a misting system, you will feel far better off than your neighbours. Remember that creating a breeze or having refreshing water sprayed on you will make a massive difference in the overall amount of time that you can spend outside enjoying your summer at home.
 

• Create a Shaded Deck or Pergola:  

Shaded decks or pergolas are a great way to not only cool down your outdoor spaces, but to also enhance the design of your landscaping. Consider installing one of our popular pergola solutions in a way that brings out the absolute best in your home. If you are able to do so, you will not only have an enjoyable place to relax, but you will also add a new design flair to your home.
 

• Eliminate Dark Coloured Furniture & Shading Structures:

 
During the intense summer heat, dark colours will create more heat. It is wise that you do not have large, dark coloured objects outside that will intensify the heat without shading. Your furniture should be light colours so that it is not as hot to sit on when the temperature is quite high. Furthermore, the shading structures should also be more neutral so the sun isn't attracted and produce unwanted, intense heat. These colour schemes will make a huge positive difference in the experience that you have sitting on your deck.
 
Final Remarks
 
There are absolutely beautiful summers to experience while living on the Gold Coast. In fact, some of the best weather and scenery that Australia has to offer is here. If you are a homeowner, there are many ways that you will be able to enhance your outdoor space to be able to appreciate the summer as much as possible. Be sure that you take the time to carefully explore all of your options so that you will find the option that is not only aesthetically pleasing, but that also significantly reduces the heat in your outdoor space. This will enable you to spend time outdoors and truly enjoy yourself this summer.   
 
If you’d like to explore your pergola options, contact the experts at In Style Patios and Decks today on 0436 007 776. We can give you a free, no-obligation quote, and ensure that you get the best solution for your home’s needs.

Spring is a fantastic time for vegetable gardening along the Gold Coast. What to plant this spring in your veggie garden can be a fun start to a plentiful spring and summer of home-grown veggie’s from your garden.

Know your zone!
It is best to ensure you are planting for the zone you live in to ensure you aren’t planting too early. Be sure to check out a Regional Zone Planting Guide before you plant if gardening is a new endeavour for you. However, if you are around the Gold Coast, you are in Zone 4 - the Subtropical region. Therefore, using the zoning planting guide, you can determine what to plant this spring in your veggie garden and get busy.

Herbs are great for every garden.
Great herbs to get started within your veggie garden this spring include chives, basil, oregano, dill, thyme, sage, and parsley. Planting these herbs in your spring garden will give you a great start to your garden, and a plethora of herbs to choose from for your spring and summer cooking needs.

Many of the herbs grow very quickly and yield a large crop early for use. You will want to place your herb garden where it can get a decent amount of sun – somewhere where the plants can receive at least 5 hours daily. Full sun is fine for most herbs. It is important to remember that many herbs have their own requirements that need to be considered. Dill likes to reseed itself once it has been trimmed back several times. Mint can be a very invasive plant so you may wish to grow mint in its own container. Oregano likes a medium, nutrient-rich soil and can tend to dry out in the warmer months, so make sure you water appropriately and mulch to help control moisture.

A variety of fruits and vegetables are important.
When you are determining what to plant this spring in your veggie garden, you will want to ensure you have a variety of fruits and vegetables included. Some perfect choices for spring planting in Zone 4 include beetroot, broccoli, cabbage and carrots. Chinese cabbage, melons and parsnips are also great choices. Sweet potatoes, lettuce, and watermelon are best planted in the spring. And don’t forget about pumpkin and tomatoes, which should be planted in the spring for best growth as well.

Sweet potatoes should be planted toward the end of the spring months; however, once they are planted, sweet potatoes typically can grow all year long. On the other hand, early spring is the perfect time to plant white potatoes – but don’t over-water and be sure to control moisture with mulch. Tomatoes also have great success with spring planting but these plants have to be watched closely in the hot, summer months.

It is important to remember that pumpkin plants encroach on all surrounding plants and spread out wildly when growing on the vine. Therefore giving pumpkins their own space to grow is important. This will ensure you get the hardiest plants without allowing the pumpkin to strangle other veggie plants in your garden.

Soil is important.
Remember, the soil type and temperature are important to your spring veggie garden. You will want to ensure you are using rich, nutrient-filled soil once the soil temperature is warmer and ready for spring planting. For instance, when considering tomatoes, in most cases you will want to make certain that your soil is not too high in nitrogen. Choosing cow or sheep manure for fertilizer is a good choice. If the soil is too rich in nitrogen your tomato plants will produce more leaves than fruit.

However, it is important to remember that some of your veggies and fruits will not need extra fertilizer at all. Just add compost if you need additional organic matter in your soil if you are trying to keep the nitrogen levels down. Again, too much nitrogen can cause leaf overgrowth with no fruit growth in some plants. The beetroot is an example of one vegetable you want to not add fertilizer to at all.

Conversely, the silverbeet plant will grow best and hardy with the addition of nitrogen-rich fertilizer. Also knowns as Swiss chard, the silverbeet is a relative of the beetroot family but grown for its leaves and stems. It is a cool climate plant and is a great pick-and-eat plant because the plant will keep producing more leaves even after you have picked the leaves. Many leaves can be harvested at once and it will not be detrimental to the plant.

Whether you are new gardener or an expert, deciding what to plant this spring in your veggie garden can be a fun time. Planning what yummy herbs, vegetables and fruits you want to get started with gives you an excellent beginning to your spring, summer, and autumn garden and ready for a productive and successful year of gardening.