The timing of this article is perfect! Given the erratic weather lately, shielding outdoor furniture has become a real challenge. While I've experimented with some methods here, I'm still searching for a solution with lasting effects. Do you have any specific product or brand recommendations? A big thank you to @Kevin Carol (https://qr.ae/pyDKpb) for suggesting The Cover Company NZ for outdoor furniture protection. I'm definitely going to explore their offerings. It would be fantastic if you could compare a few similar brands in terms of quality, pricing, and customization. Your insights would be highly valuable.

A cocoon opening to the light

I've been playing around with a pantry location. Originally, I was going to move the pantry into the laundry with some custom shelving and cut the laundry space in half. Now, Im thinking of cutting into the study area and building a wall there, and converting the new space into a long and narrow walk in pantry. Either that or build half a wall and put built in shelving in the study. Building the extra wall will reduce the need to cover in the door way that is currently in place and instead utilising it. Thoughts? p.s. this isnt too scale.

Need to know what boxes to tick to create an outdoor room that is comfortable, practical and reflects your individual style and personality? Read our tips for 5 ways to create an outdoor room that makes the most of your entertaining area, no matter the weather or time of day. 1. Fit for all seasons What is the point of an outdoor room if you can’t use it all year, or when the weather changes? This is when the right roofing or shelter comes in. Not only does it need to be weatherproof, but tough enough to last many years. This is where stainless steel roof sheet comes in, which not only looks great but is extremely strong. You can also opt for a more flexible roofing solution like our ‘Eclipse’ louvre roof, which allows you to adjust the panels, for more or less light – all at the touch of a button. There is also an insulated patio roofing option, which gives you year-round climate control and access to the alfresco life 365 days a year. 2. Cook up a storm Chances are you want to cook up a storm in your outdoor room, so make sure you plan what facilities you need. If you entertain a lot then you should consider going all out with an outdoor kitchen. Here an integrated oven or BBQ, cabinets, benchtops, fridge, sink, pizza oven and even a wine fridge (or 2) could all be on your wishlist. Products and materials need to be able to withstand exposure to the elements, so choose wisely. Stainless steel makes sense for cookware, with engineered stone or natural stone for benchtops, while cabinetry should be moisture resistant. You also need to plan the flow between your home’s kitchen and your outdoor room. Ideally access should allow foot traffic to move freely between both rooms. 3. Accessorise it We like to call all the accessories that make your outdoor room functional lifestyle extras, because often it’s the small things that make a difference. That means using it all year round and not waiting for the weather to be perfect. Here quality accessories like well-positioned downlights, heatstrips, fans and exterior blinds allow you to use the space no matter where the mercury is at. 4. Get it decked Having solid level surface underfoot is key to enjoying your outdoor room, and decking is a great option. We love hardwood timber, because it is tough, looks and feels great and has what it takes to absorb all the foot traffic you can throw at it. Popular timbers include Jarrah, Merbau, Spotted Gum and Blackbutt, as well as composite – which is a mix of plastic and timber fibres. Like the other elements of your outdoor room, you are likely to need planning permission for this, so check with your local council beforehand. 5. Screen your privacy Nosy neighbours a little close for comfort? Then you need a screen to give you some privacy while you enjoy your outdoor room. You have a number of options including timber slat, metal trellis, PVC or even bamboo. And privacy is not the only benefit you will get from a screen – they will also provide shade, shelter from gusts of wind and any eyesores you don’t want to see – like your neighbours fence