DO YOU NEED A PERMIT FOR PERGOLA?

The process of adding new elements to our homes can be equally thrilling and overwhelming. Whether you’re looking to enhance the appeal of your outdoor space with a pergola builders melbourne or want to add a small deck for leisurely Sunday brunches, it’s crucial to understand the bureaucratic side of things.

The burning question remains: Do you need a permit for a pergola?

Pergola Regulations: The Basics

When you think of a pergola, what comes to mind? An open structure that brings a whole new dimension to your outdoor living spaces? Or a quaint shade cloth-clad spot where you can unwind with a book on a sunny afternoon? No matter your vision, it’s important to acknowledge the fact that pergolas are more than just design additions – they’re an investment into your perfect home. In Melbourne and across Australia, they’re subject to local council rules, building regulations, and yes, permit requirements.

In most cases, if your proposed structure exceeds a certain floor area, or is not an ‘open structure’, you’re going to need a building permit.

Navigating the Building Line and Boundary Regulations

Before you embark on the exciting journey of constructing your new pergola or other new construction projects, it’s crucial to understand how your local council regulates property boundaries. Typically, a pergola design needs to adhere to the building line and boundary regulations. This could mean maintaining a certain distance from the property edge or meeting specific conditions set by your council.

For instance, if you’re planning to attach your pergola to an existing structure, like your house, there might be rules governing how close it can be to the property boundary. Therefore, it’s always advisable to consult with a registered building surveyor or the local council before work begins.

A Building Permit for Your Pergola

A building permit is more than just a piece of paper – it’s an official approval that ensures the safety and legality of your construction. It’s important to remember that the requirements for building permits can vary depending on the type of construction, its size, location, and other factors.

In the case of pergolas, the requirement for a permit often hinges on factors such as the pergola roof and the total floor area of the proposed structure. If you’re thinking about building a pergola in Melbourne, consider these variables and consult with your building surveyor, local council, or, Outdoor Impressions for further information and permit assistance.

Understanding the Planning Approval Process

While your project may meet all building regulations, there’s another layer of red tape that might come into play – planning approval. A planning permit, while different from a building permit, might also be required for your new pergola.

The planning approval process focuses on the impact of your construction on the surrounding area and neighbours. A planning permit looks at aspects such as how your pergola might alter the neighbourhood’s appearance or the effect it might have on local wildlife.

Your Pergola and Safety Regulations

A pergola is more than just a design feature or a way to maximise your outdoor space. It’s a structure that needs to meet safety regulations. Whether it’s a large, roofed structure or small pergolas, safety is paramount. That’s why building permits and council approval processes exist – to make sure that your beautiful pergola doesn’t pose a risk to anyone.

Wrapping Up: Do You Need a Permit for a Pergola?

So, circling back to our original question – do you need a permit for a pergola? The answer, though layered, can be summed up fairly simply. If your pergola falls within certain size specifications and adheres to safety and boundary regulations, you may not require a permit. But if your pergola is a larger, roofed structure or attached to an existing structure, it’s likely you will need a building permit.

To navigate these requirements, it’s always a good idea to consult a registered building surveyor, your local council, or an expert in the field. This way, you’re fully armed with all the information you need to proceed confidently with your exciting new pergola project. Whether it’s a small deck addition or a larger, open structure designed to transform your outdoor living spaces, it’s vital to tick all the right boxes to ensure the process is as smooth and compliant as possible.

Time to Start Building

As you plan to create your dream pergolas in Melbourne, remember to ensure it’s an approved structure. Contact Outdoor Impressions at +61 3 9728 5377 or visit 1/158 Canterbury Rd, Bayswater North VIC 3153, Australia for expert guidance. Your investment in a permitted pergola will enhance your outdoor space and lifestyle for years to come.

Trends of interior design come and go, and you can renovate and refresh with the use of different accent pieces, paint, and furniture. But in the same way as the interior of the home is important, the home’s kerb appeal is just as significant! Not only does a home’s kerb appeal entice potential buyers when you’re looking to sell your property, but it also makes your home something you’ll enjoy coming home to every single day. 

If you’re wondering how to improve kerb appeal, we’re here to give you all the kerb appeal ideas you need to make your home’s exterior one to be proud of.

 

What is kerb appeal?

Defined in the dictionary as “the attractiveness of a property and its surroundings when viewed from the street,” it really just refers to the exterior of the home, specifically when someone is looking at it from, you guessed it, the kerb. 

It’s almost like your home’s first impression, from when someone is walking through your neighbourhood and passing by or from when someone is driving past. What’s outside of the home provides people with an impression of what they’d be able to find inside, and kerb appeal refers to things such as your landscaping, lighting design, colour palette, roofing, front door, and much more.

So really, the home’s exterior is not just one big thing, but is actually made up of several parts, all working to look cohesive and attractive.

 

Why is kerb appeal so important?

So why is kerb appeal so important, and why all the fuss on improving it? 

Not only does it add to the property’s value for when you’re wanting to sell your home, but it also elevates the look of your home. And if you’ve spent your hard-earned money on your property, it only makes sense that you’ll not only want to make it look good, but keep it looking good, too. 

And while kerb appeal is made up of many things, it doesn’t have to be a costly endeavour. Your home’s kerb appeal can be elevated by making a well-thought out strategy that takes your aesthetic preferences and budget into consideration. There are lots of kerb appeal ideas from home improvement magazines, guides, and websites, but we’ll list the best spots to start so you have a better idea on how to improve kerb appeal without breaking the bank.

 

How to improve kerb appeal

Paint your front door/garage door

New door hardware, as well as a fresh coat of paint on your front door or even your garage door, can go a long way in transforming the exterior of your home. Don’t discount the influence your front door has on your kerb appeal, especially as a lot of the time the eye is drawn towards the entrance of the home.

 

Have an outdoor entertainment area

When we talk about kerb appeal, we think about lawns, window boxes, your garden… the possibilities are endless. But don’t forget about your outdoor spaces, too! Creating a lush space where you can relax, with weatherproof furniture and styled matching the exterior of your home can have a great impact on your home’s exterior. Go the extra mile and add a Stratco pergola to the front of your home for a beautiful space that keeps you protected from the weather.

 

Add some landscaping

Whether you hire the services of your local landscaping expert, or take a trip to your local hardware store to elevate your yard yourself, adding some landscaping to your front lawn can really make a difference. Adding plants or a structured path, and even just making sure that you’re on top of your lawn care, can take your front yard from average to inviting.

 

Fix/spruce up any fencing

Got fencing that’s seen better days? Prospective buyers can get dissuaded by weathered-looking fencing that hasn’t been maintained. Give your fencing a new lease on life by repairing any damages, and perhaps even putting on a new coat of paint for a fresh look.

 

Hide bins

If you’ve got space to stash away your bins, do so! This is a simple way of cleaning up the look of your home’s exterior without having to spend anything. While it’s all well and good to have your bins at the front of your home, it can be a distracting sight that takes away from the cohesive look you’re trying to achieve. If you’ve got space in the garage, or in the side entrance to your backyard, try and stow it there!

 

Complete any repairs or maintenance

A well-kept home has lots of curb appeal without having to change much. It’s because kerb appeal not only refers to freshening up the exterior and making sure everything looks cohesive and put-together, it also refers to the maintenance and quality of materials that you’ve used for your home. So make sure you clean your gutters regularly, and repair things such as broken windows, missing pavers, and chips in the paint.

 

Replace old hardware

The tiniest of details can make the biggest contributions to your home’s curb appeal. Changing door knobs, the material of your house number sign, and even your mailbox can go a long way on how to improve kerb appeal.

Create some symmetry

Symmetry is a good choice for when you’re wanting to create focal points for your home’s kerb appeal. Try to balance out the front of your house with windows on either side, or even two tall plants on either side of the front door to utilise symmetry as a way of making your front door pop.

 

Start with your outdoor space

Make your home more appealing with the perfect outdoor space! Whether it’s pergolas, verandahs, patios, or more, contact Outdoor Impressions at +61 3 9728 5377 or visit 1/158 Canterbury Rd, Bayswater North VIC 3153, Australia. Let’s create the ideal gathering spot for your home!

When you’re in your home, enjoying the peace and quiet of the space, it’s a given that you’ll have the privacy that you need. Being within sturdy walls and behind closed doors fosters that sense of safety and seclusion that enables everyone to unwind and destress from the action of the day. And though spending time at home indoors is a tried and tested way to relax, don’t discount how utilising your outdoor space can diminish your stress just as well, if not more.

Outdoor spaces have long been used as additional areas for rest and relaxation, while also making sure that you’re making use of every inch of space, sometimes even up to the property line. From swimming pools, kid’s playgrounds, gardens, to everything in between, there’s an outdoor space that will perfectly fit your needs. And whether you’re after a space to chill in, or a spot to entertain your friends and family, it’s a no-brainer to add in some elements that create some privacy in your outdoor space. After all, who wants some random strangers listening in on your private conversations with close loved ones? Below, we’ve got some backyard privacy ideas.

 

View-blocking Plants

Big, leafy plants are a great way to add some instant privacy to any outdoor space. Look for fast-growing species that can be grown both inside and outside the home, making it easy for you to move them in and out as temperatures soar or plummet over the year.

 

Hedges

An easy way to simulate the privacy effect of a fence or a solid wall without building them is to border your outdoor space with tall hedges. These help to create a private space by blocking view while also buffering noise from outside: whether it’s your neighbours enjoying their own backyard, or cars zooming past.

 

Canopies

Awnings and canopies are a tried and tested way not only to keep yourself protected from the sun’s harmful UV rays, especially during summer, it’s also a good backyard privacy idea when you have neighbours who have second-floor windows that offer a look into your backyard space. Nowadays, there’s a wide range of awnings and canopies available, with retractable types that make personalising your space for day-to-day use a breeze.

 

Vines and Trellises

Trellises are a good way to break up the line of sight, especially when installed on top of the deck railing. The patterned wood trellis not only looks cosy and homey, it also provides a great starting point for adding vines! This combination is an amazing way to block the neighbour’s view, giving you a little privacy with a natural touch. Amp it up by planting shrubs or hedges along the sides of your deck to really level up that cosy feeling.

 

Large Garden Ornaments

Use your sense of style to create additional privacy, whether you’ve got fencing already or are working with a wide open space. Large garden ornaments such as container gardens, potted plants, birdbaths, or even utilising your existing plants and trees can help cloak the space in shade and act as privacy walls to evoke a sense of seclusion.

A large outdoor umbrella may also be a good addition to your garden, blocking harmful UV rays and adding another level of privacy when you place it against an existing fence or greenery.

 

Water Features

Concerned about background noise? Water features are a good idea when it comes to dealing with unwanted noises in your backyard. Not only that, but the sound of rushing water is relaxing and will definitely add to the ambiance of your outdoor space.

 

Walls and Lattice Fences

A privacy fence is the standard way to seclude a space, and if you’re wanting something a little more open than wooden fences, looking at a lattice screen might be a good fit for you. Simple lattice designs on wood fencing can add that much needed outdoor privacy screen you need, without enclosing the backyard too much.

 

Creative Landscaping

Starting from scratch and have existing trees and shrubbery in your backyard? Take advantage of what you currently have! Old trees are typically an amazing way to provide shade and privacy while keeping that natural feel, too. If you’re thinking of adding a deck to your outdoor space, plant some lush greenery, or plant trees around the edges to soften harsh lines and evoke a more secluded feeling.

Don’t underestimate how raised garden beds can amp up your backyard’s privacy. As a rule of thumb, mound up the soil to a height that’s between 30 to 60 centimetres. This ensures that your greenery has that much needed extra height that will add to the complete privacy you’re working towards.

Can’t erect a stone wall or wood fences for the entirety of the space? No sweat! A vertical garden with climbing vines and tall shrubs can be a perfect solution to draw away the eyes from the outdoor living space itself.

 

Strategic placement

Of course, it’s always recommended to have a chat with a builder to get advice on where the best spot for your central outdoor space will be. Try and choose a spot that is out of the way, such as a corner or a side of the house that’s least visible to onlookers. You can even extend the roofline over this space to help it look more cohesive.

 

Pergolas

Pergolas are a beautiful addition to any outdoor space, creating shade and adding in a great focal point. Homeowners enhance their pergoals with the use of planters, light fixtures, and outdoor curtains to great effect, creating an ethereal little space that’s intimate yet still practical. You can also mix and match by combining a pergola and a trellis to create private spaces with vines creeping all over!

 

Wondering how to install pergolas in Melbourne in your own outdoor space, or looking for more backyard privacy ideas? Contact Outdoor Impressions at +61 3 9728 5377 or visit 1/158 Canterbury Rd, Bayswater North VIC 3153, Australia. Our friendly team would love to help you create the outdoor living solution of your dreams.

When you’re wanting to create the perfect outdoor space, being able to take your new pergola from day to night is ideal. Though summer comes with longer daylight hours, the sun inevitably sets at some stage, and it’s important that when it does, you and your guests can still keep enjoying your outdoor space safely and securely. The right lighting goes a long way in maintaining ambience and entertainment. If you’re stuck on how to light a pergola area, we’ve got the whys and the hows right here in this blog for you!

 

What To Consider When Installing Outdoor Lighting

Safety

Outdoor areas can get extremely dark during nighttime, which can make it difficult for you and your guests to navigate. Make your space safer by installing lights along where people will walk, such as paths, driveways, and steps! Lights placed along the edges will help immensely with visibility, and using lights such as bollards and spotlights provides soft outdoor lighting that makes it easy to walk in the dark.

Ambience

Softly lit, inviting outdoor spaces can make or break your desire to spend time in your outdoor area. But with the right lighting, you’ll find that you’ll enjoy hanging out with friends and family, and they’ll love the space, too! Some outdoor lighting ideas to consider for ambience: simple string lights, fairy lights, even well-placed pendant lights to highlight specific spots and features can be a great idea to show off the space to dramatic effect. Make sure to use lighting styles that not only accentuate the design of your outdoor space, but are built for outdoor use as well.

Entertainment

The key to perfect outdoor spaces is the right lighting with warm, soft tones as opposed to harsh white bright lights. When thinking of your light sources, it’s best to consider what type of mood you’re going for when you’re wanting to entertain your friends and family. String lights, fire pits, paper lanterns, and even pergola lights can create magical backdrops that exude whimsy and welcome.

Security

For outdoor living spaces, lighting is also key to ensure security. Motion activated lights as well as wall lights and light fixtures that have built-in sensors or are solar-powered can be an amazing way to mix ambient lighting and security lighting, while also potentially deterring would-be intruders.

 

Pergola Lighting Ideas

Hanging lights/down lights

A great way to really make your home’s outdoor space a beautiful place to spend time is to utilise hanging lights or down lights. From lanterns, paper lanterns, mason jars, and even chandeliers, use your pergola beams to hang dainty lights for a diffused yet inviting lighting system that’s sure to look magical every time.

Eye level lighting

 

Another lighting option to consider is using eye level lighting. For this Australian pergola lighting idea, you’d be using lamps and wall lights according to your pergola design to arrange lights at the mid-level. Mid-level refers to lights that are just below, or just above the eye level so that guests can easily see one another without squinting because of extreme brightness or extreme darkness. Wall fixtures and sconces are a great way to position and install lights to the sides of your existing pergola for indirect lighting that’s easy on the eyes!

Ground level (uplighting)

 

Ground level lights not only ensure that you and your guests can see where you’re going, but it actually also works as an ambience light, too. Ground level lights, or uplighting, can be used to outline the edges of your outdoor space whilst also showing off your garden’s designs and other features, elongating shadows and providing a magical look that’s hard to replicate.

Downlighting

Downlights are used to brighten up a space whilst, importantly, not blinding your guests. Usually with pergolas, downlights are installed at the top of pergola posts, giving off a contemporary look if that’s your chosen design.

Coloured LEDs

Wanting something a bit more funky? LED lights are the new trend, and for good reason. LED rope lights come in a wide array of colours, from red, blue, green, to everything in between. If you’re a fan of neon hues, utilise LED rope lights and step outside the design box for an outdoor space that’s wholly and uniquely you.

Plus, LED lighting is usually pretty energy-efficient and will last a long time.

Curtain lights

 

After a simple way to light up your pergola while still providing enough light for you and your guests to see each other? Curtain lights are an amazing lighting solution that not only gives off a bit of fun and whimsy, but also helps to light up the rest of your outdoor space enough for guests to be able to see where they’re going. Curtain lights are available in a wide range of colours, but try and use warm and soft tones to give that welcoming feel.

Fire Pits

Want a cosy and intimate setting for your outdoor space? Ditch the dining table and place a fire pit in your outdoor area for a modern and cool design that’ll take you from summer to winter. Or better yet, install a fireplace for a diffused lighting experience that’s bound to amaze!

 

Your Outdoor Experts

Whether you’re looking for pergola lighting ideas, or even wondering where to get the best Melbourne pergolas, Outdoor Impressions is your one-stop shop for all things outdoor living. We’ve got the skills and the experience to create the outdoor space of your dreams, and only work with high-quality materials that we know will stand the test of time and have been shown to last throughout the Aussie climate, so you can have peace of mind that your new home addition will not only be a sight to behold, but will also be a worthy investment that you’ll enjoy for the years to come.

 

If you’re looking for pergolas in Melbourne, call Outdoor Impressions at +61 3 9728 5377 or visit 1/158 Canterbury Rd, Bayswater North VIC 3153, Australia.