Creating a backyard capable of enduring Australian sunshine, torrential rains, and strong winds requires thoughtful planning. Regular timber and traditional outdoor wicker deteriorate fast once exposed to the effects of nature. But by thinking beyond the traditional materials available in the average garden centre, you will find materials that create stunning visuals as well as withstand Australian weather conditions. Let us explore several non-traditional materials that will help you make your alfresco look like nothing else!

Durable Outdoor Fabrics and Sailcloth

While traditional outdoor fabrics include canvas cushions, heavy-duty fabrics provide many possibilities for creating a variety of unique structures or decorations. One of the most durable materials is sailcloth made specially for catching winds on the open waters. By stretching a huge piece of sailcloth above your garden courtyard, you will get not only an interesting architectural addition to your property but also a functional canopy offering shade from the powerful rays of the Australian sun. 

Weatherproof textiles are great for making artworks or creating partitions between various areas of the garden. They add softness and a hint of romance to the outdoors that can be achieved by using such rigid materials as brick walls or metal fences.

Using Marine Plywood

Timber is an excellent choice for creating a traditional backyard, but regular types are not always suitable for making long-lasting and beautiful structures. Marine plywood, on the other hand, is engineered to withstand harsh climate conditions including rain and wetlands. As the name suggests, marine plywood was invented for shipbuilding but is now used widely to create backyard constructions. 

Thanks to special gluing technologies that make the plywood waterproof, you can use it to create amazing pieces of garden furniture, storage facilities, or feature walls for your patio. A light coating of quality sealant will make plywood surfaces smooth and elegant.

Interesting Ideas for Cinder Blocks

Concrete blocks are normally concealed behind brickwork or render, but when exposed, they give the garden an interesting industrial vibe. What is more, they are very affordable, virtually indestructible, and easy to use for many garden projects. By stacking concrete blocks, you can easily turn them into flower planters for your succulents and herbs. 

Moreover, thanks to their hollow center, you can fill the void with soil or use it to fix wood seats. If you are not afraid of experimenting, concrete blocks can be arranged to create geometric patterns in the shape of sculptures. Their thermal mass makes concrete blocks good for creating fire pit surroundings because they collect heat and emit it during the night.

Using Eco-Friendly Plastic Materials

Plastics have a rather negative connotation related to garden design due to the fact that cheap plastic patio furniture usually breaks down after just one season. However, there are many innovations in creating long-lasting and beautiful backyard materials. High-density plastic made of milk jugs or other products offers a range of possibilities. The plastic is first melted and then cast in order to get hard wood-like surfaces. 

By applying repurposed plastic to your deck construction or making furniture out of it, you get an outdoor item requiring no paint or varnishing. Besides, this material does not fade in sun and cannot rot or suffer from insect damage. Moreover, this environmentally-friendly material prevents garbage from ending up in local landfills.

A Backyard with a Twist

As seen from the abovementioned examples, you do not need to restrict yourself to boring traditional options in order to create a backyard. Using these innovative and durable materials, you can transform your outdoor space into something totally different. Just think beyond the usual solutions, and you will see what your backyard can really become!