Decide your look
Coastal, Victorian or Contemporary… This is your guide to choosing an outdoor style
Creating the perfect outdoor space is an exciting task, but with so many styles to choose from, it can be a daunting task. Coastal, Victorian, and Contemporary styles each offer unique characteristics that can transform your outdoor area into a space that you can be proud of. In this blog, we'll explore 3 popular styles to help you decide which one complements your home.
Coastal Charm
If your current home features a light and modern aesthetic with an abundance of natural materials and neutral tones, a coastal style could complement its existing look. The coastal style is defined by its light tones, use of natural materials, and the incorporation of weathered timber, offering a relaxed and serene outdoor atmosphere. We've collated a Pinterest board full of coastal home inspiration to help guide you on your project. Check it out!
To achieve timber that looks like it's spent years naturally greying in the sun, coat your exterior timber with Feast Watson Traditional Timber Oil in Weathered Grey. This timber oil not only protects and nourishes your outdoor timber, but also imparts a distinct coastal charm. The Weathered Grey hue captures the essence of weathered driftwood found along sandy shores, creating a sun-bleached effect that complements the coastal aesthetic. As the oil penetrates the wood, it enhances the natural grain patterns, providing a textured and organic appearance reminiscent of seaside landscapes. Weathers Grey works best on lighter-coloured timber, such as spotted gum.
Apply Feast Watson Wood Shield in Weathered Grey to your vertical exterior timber for a cohesive space and coat your outdoor furniture in Feast Watson Weatherproof Varnish for protection. Consider adding potted plants and flowers that thrive in coastal climates, such as lavender and succulents.
The timeless elegance of Victorian
For those who appreciate classic elegance and intricate details, the Victorian style offers a timeless and sophisticated outdoor aesthetic. Victorian design is characterised by ornate patterns, decorative ironwork, and vintage-inspired elements. Rich, deep colours like burgundy, forest green, and Colorbond® Monument® are often used to create a sense of opulence. Need help to visualise this romantic style? Check out our Pinterest board for inspiration.
A Victorian style call for a classic timber look. Feast Watson Traditional Timber Oil in Natural showcases the beauty of timber in its natural state. Offering protection from the elements and imparting a warm, honeyed tone finish that allows the timber’s grain and patterns to shine through. Whether applied to wooden outdoor furniture or decking, this timber oil brings out the sophistication associated with Victorian design. The result is an outdoor space that seamlessly blends the charm of yesteryear with the durability and protection required for the demands of modern living.
To complete your Victorian design, opt for wrought iron furniture with intricate detailing, vintage-inspired lighting fixtures, and lush, manicured gardens with a variety of flowering plants. Create contrast with 2 to 3 coats of Feast Watson Timber & Deck Stain in Black Japan on your deck railings or fences. Don’t forget your home’s exterior doors and windows require protection too! To ensure it stays looking its best, apply a few coats of Feast Watson Weatherproof Varnish.
Sleek and Modern Contemporary
If your taste leans towards clean lines, minimalism, and a focus on functionality, the contemporary style may be the perfect choice for your outdoor space. Contemporary design embraces a sleek and modern aesthetic, with a focus on bold, contrasting colour palettes and a seamless blend between indoor and outdoor living spaces.
To compliment the bold colours of contemporary design, coat your timber in Feast Watson Traditional Timber Oil in Merbau. The formula of this rich hue not only enhances the longevity and resilience of your outdoor timber but also introduces a contemporary flair. The rich, deep tones of Merbau create a striking contrast against neutral or black backdrops, like those created using Feast Watson Timber & Deck Stain in Black Japan, making it an ideal choice for homeowners aiming to achieve a sophisticated, urban-inspired look. Perfect for your decking, outdoor furniture, or architectural accents.
To finish your contemporary space, invest in streamlined furniture with bold geometric shapes, such as modular sofas or statement lounge chairs. Introduce another timber shade with Feast Watson Weatherproof Varnish in Natural on your exterior vertical timber. Incorporate pops of colour through accessories like throw pillows or outdoor rugs. Choose low-maintenance landscaping with a minimalist approach, and consider adding a fire pit or a water feature for a touch of luxury. Exploring a contemporary look? Scroll through our Pinterest board for inspiration to envision and embrace the sleek and modern style.
Making your decision
Ultimately, the decision between Coastal, Victorian, and Contemporary styles comes down to personal preference and the look you want to create in your outdoor space. Consider your lifestyle, the style of your home, and the surrounding environment when making your choice. For more inspiration on these 3 styles, check out our Pinterest. Once you’ve decided, read our other blogs to continue your outdoor space transformation.
