September Renovation Inspiration: Getting Ready for Spring and Outdoor Living

20 August 2025

As September rolls in, most of us are starting to think of longer days, warmer weather, and the shift that comes with daylight saving. It’s the perfect time to consider how your home connects with the outdoors. Whether you’re dreaming of entertaining on a new deck, creating an outdoor kitchen, or simply improving your indoor–outdoor flow, now’s the season to plan ahead.

In this blog, we’ll explore practical ways to make the most of your home’s transition into spring, with a focus on outdoor living and the seamless blend of comfort, style, and function.

Why September is the Ideal Time to Plan
September is a turning point. While winter is still lingering, spring is just around the corner. This makes it a smart time to start planning renovation projects before the busy summer months arrive. Contractors and suppliers often book out early in the season, so getting ahead ensures your space is ready to enjoy when the sun really shines.

It’s also easier to assess what your home needs now, after months of being indoors, you’ve probably noticed areas that could use improvement, like a lack of natural light or poor flow to outdoor spaces.

Creating Indoor - Outdoor Flow

A home that connects easily with the outdoors feels larger, brighter, and more inviting. Good indoor-outdoor flow isn’t just about adding a sliding door; it’s about creating a natural extension of your living space.

Creating Indoor - Outdoor Flow

Key Considerations:

Doorways and Access: Bi-fold or stacker doors can open wide to connect your living area with a deck or patio.
Floor Levels: Minimising steps between inside and outside creates a smooth transition.
Layout: Think about how furniture is placed inside and how it relates to outdoor spaces.

A thoughtful design can make everyday living more enjoyable and enhance the way you entertain guests.

Building the Perfect Deck

A deck is one of the most popular upgrades for Kiwi homes, and for good reason. It provides an instant extension of your living space and makes the most of our outdoor lifestyle.

Tips for Designing Your Deck:

Size and Proportion: Choose dimensions that suit your section and home without overwhelming it.
Materials: Timber is classic, but composite decking offers low-maintenance durability.
Sun and Shade: Consider how the sun moves across your property. Adding a pergola or shade sail can make the space more usable year-round.
Connection: Position the deck where it naturally flows from your main living area or kitchen.

Done well, a deck can add real value to your home as well as lifestyle.

Outdoor Kitchens: Taking Entertaining to the Next Level

Outdoor kitchens are becoming increasingly popular in New Zealand. They’re not just about having a barbecue; they can be as simple or elaborate as you like.

Features to Consider:

Cooking Options: From built-in BBQs to pizza ovens and smokers.
Bench Space: A practical prep area makes entertaining easier.
Storage: Weatherproof cupboards for utensils and gear save trips inside.
Shelter: A covered outdoor kitchen allows for year-round use.

Even a modest setup can transform your backyard into a social hub.

Landscaping to Tie It All Together

A successful renovation doesn’t stop at the house. Landscaping completes the picture, making your indoor–outdoor flow seamless and enjoyable.

Think about:

Paths and Access: Make sure movement from house to garden feels natural.
Planting: Choose plants that thrive in your local climate and add seasonal colour.
Lighting: Subtle outdoor lighting creates ambience and extends the use of your space into the evening.

Preparing Now for a Summer-Ready Home
The key to enjoying your home this summer is getting started now. Planning in September gives you time to:

Finalise design ideas
Lock in builders and tradespeople
Source materials before peak demand
Ensure everything is completed before Christmas gatherings roll around

Ready to Bring Your Ideas to Life?

Spring is the season of new beginnings, and your home can be part of that fresh start. Whether you’re thinking about a new deck, an outdoor kitchen, or simply improving the flow between indoors and outdoors, planning ahead makes all the difference.

If you’d like advice or help with your next renovation project, our team is here to guide you through the process. Get in touchto book a free in-home consultation and let’s make your home ready for the best of Kiwi outdoor living.

< Older Post

Newer Post >

Like more home inspirations, ideas and tips?

Subscribe to our Come Alive! Newsletter

It's FREE and comes to you via email every month providing informative articles, tips and ideas!

Newsletter Form

Follow Us on Social Media

Visit our FREE E - Library

Have you thought about renovating but don't know where to start? Browse and download a variety of E-Books and other resources that cover tips and tricks, latest trends and renovation processes.

VISIT THE E - LIBRARY NOW

Unlocking Your Backyard: Your Guide to New Zealand's Granny Flat Revolution

by Web Wonks • 20 November 2025

New rules are coming for NZ granny flats! Get your guide to the 70m² consent exemption, what remains mandatory (like LBP and Building Code compliance), and how to unlock income potential in your backyard.

From Your Kitchen to the Outdoors- Creating Connected Living Spaces to Make Your Home Come Alive!

by Web Wonks • 3 November 2025

Here in New Zealand, our lifestyle is intrinsically linked to the outdoors. From summer barbies on the deck to enjoying a quiet morning coffee in the sun, we love to make the most of our beautiful country. So why do we so often keep our indoor and outdoor lives separate? The concept of "indoor-outdoor flow" has become a cornerstone of modern Kiwi home design, and for good reason. It’s about more than just opening a door to the garden; it’s about intentionally blurring the lines between your home and your backyard to create one large, harmonious living area. And the absolute heart of the home and this connection? The kitchen. By seamlessly linking your kitchen to a deck, patio, or garden, you don't just add space, you transform the way you live, cook, and entertain. It’s all about open plan living and making the most of the space we have. Why a Seamless Flow is the Heart of the Modern Kiwi Home Creating a strong connection between your kitchen and outdoor area is one of the most impactful changes you can make to your home. The benefits go far beyond just looking good. An Entertainer’s Dream: Imagine prepping food in the kitchen while still being part of the conversation with guests relaxing on the deck. A connected space makes hosting gatherings effortless and more enjoyable. A Bigger, Brighter Home: Large glass doors and windows flood your kitchen and living areas with natural light, making the entire space feel more open, airy, and expansive. Everyday Enjoyment: This isn’t just for special occasions. It makes everyday life better, whether you're watching the kids play in the garden while you cook dinner or simply enjoying the fresh air and garden views. Adds Real Value: Excellent indoor-outdoor flow is a highly sought-after feature in the New Zealand property market, making it a smart investment for the future..

How to Find More Space in Your Home Before Next Winter

by Web Wonks • 23 September 2025

The sun is finally out, the days are getting longer, and the last of winter's chill is a distant memory. For many of us, this time of year brings a renewed sense of energy and a desire to get outside and enjoy the beautiful New Zealand spring and summer. But after months of being cooped up indoors, you've probably noticed a few things about your home. Maybe the kitchen feels a bit cramped, the living room struggles to accommodate your family, or you simply crave more breathing room. This feeling of confinement is a common one, and it's the perfect catalyst for change. Rather than waiting until next year's cold snap hits to realise you need more space, now is the ideal time to start planning a home renovation . A lot of people don’t realise that it often takes 3-4 months from the initial conversation with a designer to when any actual building work can begin. That means starting now is the key to enjoying a more spacious, functional home well before next winter. The Problem: Not Enough Space It’s easy to feel like you don’t have enough space. Maybe you've got a growing family, you're now working from home, or you simply have more things than your house can comfortably hold. The issue isn't always about the total square meterage; it's often about how the existing space is used. Poor layouts, wasted nooks, and inefficient storage can make even a decent-sized home feel cluttered and restrictive. During winter, when our homes become our primary sanctuaries, these issues become more obvious. The kitchen counter that's always piled high with stuff, the hallway that’s a constant bottleneck, or the lack of a quiet spot to read - all of these can add up to a feeling of frustration. The goal of a good renovation isn't just to add a new room; it's to create a home that flows, functions, and serves your lifestyle better.

September Renovation Inspiration: Getting Ready for Spring and Outdoor Living

Outdoor Kitchens: Taking Entertaining to the Next Level