Why This Backyard Wasn’t Working
When Carl & Suzanne moved into their Wahroonga property, they quickly realised the long, narrow grassed area beside the pool simply wasn’t being used Although positioned directly beside the pool, it didn’t feel inviting or functional. There was nowhere to entertain, nowhere to cook, and no protection from the weather. The area was effectively a “dead space”; it was neglected.
They wanted to completely rethink how this part of the backyard could work.
Their goals were clear:
- Transform the dead space into a functional poolside entertaining area
- Create a separate alfresco living zone away from the upstairs kitchen
- Incorporate an outdoor kitchen for relaxed poolside entertaining
Most importantly, they wanted the finished space to feel integrated with the home, not like an afterthought.
What Needed To Be Solved First.
While the finished outdoor living area feels effortless, there were several important considerations behind the scenes.
Because of the size and scope of the project, the works required a full Development Application through Ku-ring-gai Shire Council.
Carl & Suzanne were very clear from the beginning that they wanted everything completed properly, professionally, and compliantly.
During the approvals process, an additional challenge emerged involving a Sydney Water asset located within the property boundaries. However our team managed the required coordination, documentation, consultant communication, and approval pathway to ensure the project could continue without unnecessary delays.
The site itself also created construction challenges.
The area sat low to the ground beside the pool, meaning material selection, drainage planning, and structural detailing were critical for long-term durability and performance.
Weather conditions during construction also added complexity, requiring careful staging and ongoing site management throughout the build.
Why Louvers Were The Right Patio Choice…
The success of this Wahroonga poolside deck and patio cover project came down to balancing functionality, natural light, and material warmth.
Because Carl & Suzanne wanted the area to remain bright and open, a traditional fixed patio cover wasn’t the right solution.
Instead, we incorporated an opening aluminium louvre roof system that allows them to control sunlight, shade, airflow, and weather protection throughout the day.
This was particularly important because the alfresco area sits directly alongside both the home and pool, meaning light management impacted both the outdoor space and interior living areas.
To soften the space and create warmth, natural Merbau hardwood decking with matching hardwood screening were used throughout.
The timber tones contrast beautifully against the lighter architectural finishes while helping the outdoor living room feel warm, inviting, and connected to the surrounding landscape.
A custom outdoor kitchen was integrated along the length of the space, creating a completely self-contained poolside entertaining zone.
This allows the homeowners to cook, entertain, relax, and spend time outdoors without constantly moving between levels of the home.
Integrated lighting was also incorporated throughout the bulkhead of the roofing, which allowed the alfresco space to transition seamlessly from daytime pool use into evening entertaining.
The Details That Bring It All Together
FLOORING:
- Steel (RHS) floor framing
- 140mm ‘Merbau’ hardwood timber decking
- Oiled with ‘Feast & Watson’ natural decking oil
PATIO COVERS:
- ‘Eclipse’ aluminium louvered patio cover
Electronic louvers set within aluminium framing & Colorbond internal box guttering.
Standard rain sensor feature & internal switch plate for operating - Custom ‘bulkhead’ to perimeter to allow for downlight fittings
OTHER:
- Outdoor kitchen
Hot & cold water with sink
Five burner, external hooded BBQ
Custom cabinetry as required - Privacy Screening:
42mm ‘Merbau’ horizontal hardwood timber battens
The Final Result
Before construction, this section of the backyard was simply a narrow grassed strip beside the pool.
Despite its location, it wasn’t functional, comfortable, or visually connected to the home.
Today, the space has been completely transformed into a purpose-built alfresco outdoor living room that feels like a natural extension of the property.
The addition of hardwood decking, integrated lighting, weather protection, and the outdoor kitchen has completely changed how the homeowners use the lower level of their home.
What was once an overlooked side yard is now one of the most used spaces on the property.
The homeowners now have a dedicated poolside entertaining area where they can cook, relax, host family and friends, and spend time outdoors comfortably throughout the year.
The flexibility of the louvre roof system means the space can adapt to changing weather conditions while still maintaining the natural light that was so important to the original brief.
The warmth of the timber finishes combined with the architectural detailing gives the area a refined, resort-style feel that complements the home beautifully.
Most importantly, the project transformed an unused section of the backyard into a functional outdoor living space that genuinely improves how the homeowners live day to day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Depending on the size, location, roof design, and site constraints, projects may require either Exempt Development, CDC approval, or a full Development Application through Ku-ring-gai Council.
This project required a full DA approval due to its size and site-specific conditions.
They are ideal for homeowners wanting flexibility while still maintaining natural light into both the outdoor area and adjoining internal spaces.
For this project, we used a steel structural subframe combined with hardwood decking and external-grade finishes to suit the environmental conditions and long-term exposure.
This project demonstrates how even a long, narrow area can be transformed into a highly functional outdoor entertaining zone with thoughtful planning and layout design.
Projects involving council approvals and custom construction typically require additional planning time before construction begins.
As a general guide, most of our complete outdoor living projects typically fall between $150,000–$250,000+, depending on scope, approvals, structural requirements and material selections.
