EXCLUSIVE: When The Block judges stepped into Emma and Ben’s alfresco area there was a glaring error that smacked them right in the face – the room was too harsh.

“It feels a little bit heavy in here,” Shaynna criticised, pointing out the use of black everywhere.

But a single item saved Emma and Ben’s space from near disaster. Watch their consult with Freedom stylist Serena in the video above to find out what it is.

Initially, judge Darren felt the space “lacked softness” and was missing just one thing.

“It could use an outdoor rug,” he noted.

Emma and Ben heard that feedback loud and clear and immediately purchased a burnt orange rug from Freedom to break up all the dark tones.
Darren was quick to note this space was in desperate need of a pop of colour and an outdoor rug. (Nine)
Voila! Much better! (Nine)
It turns out it pays to listen to the judges with Freedom stylist Serena labelling the “last minute addition” of the rug as “the hero” the outdoor living room needed.

While Serena paid Emma and Ben a visit, the trio also exchanged some handy tips and tricks for bringing an outdoor living room to life:

Establish a sense of continuity

Like Emma said, the key to making a liveable outdoor area is to “blend the inside of the house to the outside”.

The easiest way to do that is by incorporating the same design principles in your interior and exterior.

Think about using the same colour palette or mimicking shapes and lines. In Emma and Ben’s case they stuck to the same “dark and moody” colour scheme the used inside.

In Pictures

Emma and Ben’s Alfresco Terrace and Stratco Shed

Function first

Just because a space is outdoors doesn’t mean it should lack the creature comforts that inside rooms have.

Emma and Ben included outdoor heating and blinds that could descend in the case of bad weather so that the space could still be used.

Amenities like this will ensure people gravitate towards the living area.
Freedom stylist Serena sat down to talk all things outdoor living. (Nine)

Reference the natural landscape

Lacking inspiration? Take note from your surroundings.

Emma and Ben selected their cushions to match the colours of the rolling hills of Daylesford and plants they could see in the view.

Just another way to tie your outdoors to the great outdoors!