Looking for outdoor entertaining area ideas for the new year? From bold colours and seamless indoor-outdoor spaces to opening roof systems and multifunctional designs, here’s what’s trending in 2024.

Multifunctional spaces and opening roof systems

Maximise your outdoor entertaining area by creating multifunctional spaces. One way to achieve this is by installing an opening louvre roof system. These create multi-season spaces that provide protection from the elements while maintaining an open-air feel. 

Multifunctional furniture is also growing in popularity. Consider investing in luxurious foldable chairs, collapsible tables and stackable loungers that are designed to make your space versatile.

Seamlessly blending indoor and outdoor spaces

One of the biggest trends in 2024—outdoor living that feels like a natural extension of the home. 

Makes your home feel larger and more harmonious by updating your patio with flooring, furniture, decor and colour palettes that align with your home’s interior.

Bold colours and patterns

Goodbye, all-neutral-everything. Dubbed as the ‘Year of the Eclectic’ by landscape designers, Yardzen, 2024 outdoor entertaining areas are embracing unique combinations and vibrant palettes in 2024. We’re also seeing a rise in monochromatic designs that play with textures in a single tone.

Have a play with bold colour and patterns in your own outdoor entertaining area. For an affordable and low-commitment option, add easy-to-change textiles like pillows and throw blankets with new colours and patterns.

Comfortable seating areas

It’s all about comfort and low maintenance. In 2024, plush outdoor furniture made with durable performance fabrics are taking center stage. 

Choose couches, chairs and sectionals with deep cushions. Outdoor barbeques or relaxing evenings star-gazing—you and your guests will feel pampered. 

Outdoor kitchens

Fully-equipped outdoor kitchens are must-have features in modern homes, but in 2024 they’re taking luxuriousness to new heights. 

Expect to see built-in fireplaces, custom pizza ovens, expansive counter space, smokers and even wine refrigerators making appearances in outdoor entertaining areas.  

Mindful outdoor living

Eco-friendly materials continue to grow in popularity. Look for FSC-certification on wooden furniture pieces to ensure responsible sourcing of timber. 

Ditch “fast furniture” for higher quality pieces that will stand the test of time. Consider eco-friendly materials like recycled plastic, reclaimed wood and second-hand pieces.

Organic materials and textures

Embrace natural beauty in your outdoor entertaining area this year. Organic materials, curves and soft lines are dominating the best outdoor furniture designs in 2024.

Think rattan, jute, stone, terracotta and wood. Add pillows, throw blankets, outdoor rugs, planters, decorative trays, baskets and lighting fixtures made from these materials to bring warmth to your space. 

Brick pavers

Brick pavers are timeless, yet they’re having a major comeback. These classic and versatile materials lend a rustic and slightly lived-in aesthetic to your entertaining area that designers are loving. 

Whether you prefer a stacked, staggered, herringbone or basketweave layout, brick pavers add visual interest and charm to any outdoor space.

Tech integration

Technology isn’t just for indoor spaces anymore. In 2024, tech integration is becoming increasingly prevalent in outdoor entertaining areas. 

Think built-in speakers, wireless charging stations, energy-efficient LED lights and remote-operated mechanised opening roof systems.

Update your outdoor entertaining area this year

Join the Sydneysiders transforming their outdoor spaces in 2024—whether it’s simply adding a pop of colour or all out installing a new opening roof system.

Curious about opening louvre roofs? Find out more about Smartblade—Sydneys most trusted opening roof specialist.