As summer arrives, many homeowners start looking for outdoor living inspiration in Auckland to make the most of the warmer weather, there’s no better time to get your home ready for long afternoons outdoors, BBQs with friends, and lazy evenings under the stars. Whether you’re looking to improve indoor-outdoor flow or create a central gathering space, here are a few great ways to elevate your outdoor living this season.
1. Transform a Window into a Bifold or Sliding Door
If you’ve got a living or dining space that looks out onto the garden, one of the simplest ways to open things up is to replace an existing window with a bifold or sliding door and build a deck straight out from it.
This is an excellent way to enhance indoor-outdoor flow and make your home feel more open, welcoming, and connected to the outdoors. In most cases, this upgrade doesn’t require building consent — provided you’re not altering the lintel size and your deck sits less than 1.5 m above ground. You can read more about consent exemptions under Schedule 1 of the New Zealand Building Act..
It’s also a cost-effective way to add real value to your property. As a guide, adding a 2 m × 2.1 m bifold unit and a 15 m² pine deck typically costs between $16,000 – $21,000, depending on site conditions and finishes.
2. Create an Outdoor Kitchen
If there’s one thing that brings Kiwis together (other than the All Blacks), it’s the classic summer barbeque — preferably enjoyed on a beautiful deck.
An outdoor kitchen takes that to the next level. From simple built-in BBQ benches to fully equipped setups with sinks, fridges, and stone benchtops, outdoor kitchens can be tailored to your space, budget, and lifestyle.
Whether you prefer sleek stainless steel or natural concrete finishes, a custom-made outdoor kitchen transforms your backyard into an entertainer’s paradise. It’s the perfect upgrade if you want to make your outdoor area more functional, social, and stylish.
Thinking about adding one? Get in touch with us — we’ll help design and build a setup that fits your home and your vision.
3. Pergola-Covered Patio with Fire Pit
When designing an outdoor area, it’s great to include a central feature that draws people in — something that becomes the heart of the space. A well-designed pergola does exactly that, defining the area and providing structure, shade, and style.
Add a fire pit beneath it, and you’ve got a setting that lets you enjoy the outdoors well into the night. From modern louvre roofs to timber-framed pergolas, the design options are endless, allowing you to create something truly unique and personal.
This kind of project adds both flair and functionality — and it’s a brilliant way to make your home feel warm, inviting, and ready for entertaining year-round.
Ready to Start Your Outdoor Project?
Whether it’s a new deck, pergola, or complete outdoor living transformation, the team at Macalister Construction can help design and build something that enhances your lifestyle and adds lasting value to your Auckland home — providing practical outdoor living inspiration tailored to you.
For more outdoor living ideas check out our project portfolio here
