--- title: Blog description: blog --- [Skip to content](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/blog#main-content) [![OI-LogoReverse@4x](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/hs-fs/hubfs/OI-LogoReverse@4x.png?width=950&height=395&name=OI-LogoReverse@4x.png "OI-LogoReverse@4x")](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/) - [About](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/what-we-do) Show submenu for About - [What we do](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/what-we-do) - [Accreditation](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/accreditations) - [Residential Spaces](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/outdoor-design-construction) Show submenu for Residential Spaces - [Outdoor Design & Construction](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/outdoor-design-construction) - [Retractable & Louvre](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/retractable-and-louvre) - [Landscaping](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/landscaping) - [Swimming Pools & Spas](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/swimming-pools) - [![](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/hubfs/stratco-logo-inversed.svg)](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/stratco) - [Commercial Structures](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/commercial-outdoor-structures) - [Contact](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/contact) - [1300 212 333](tel:1300%20212%20333) - [About](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/what-we-do) Show submenu for About - [What we do](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/what-we-do) - [Accreditation](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/accreditations) - [Residential Spaces](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/outdoor-design-construction) Show submenu for Residential Spaces - [Outdoor Design & Construction](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/outdoor-design-construction) - [Retractable & Louvre](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/retractable-and-louvre) - [Landscaping](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/landscaping) - [Swimming Pools & Spas](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/swimming-pools) - [![](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/hubfs/stratco-logo-inversed.svg)](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/stratco) - [Commercial Structures](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/commercial-outdoor-structures) - [Contact](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/contact) - [1300 212 333](tel:1300%20212%20333) # Blog Use this space to tell everyone about what you have to offer. [![](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/hs-fs/hubfs/IMAGES/Flat%20Roof/Flat%20Roof%20With%20Decking/IMG_3130.jpeg?width=365&name=IMG_3130.jpeg)](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/blog/north-vs-south-facing-backyards) ## [North vs. South Facing Backyards: Choosing the Right Roof Pitch and Shade Structure](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/blog/north-vs-south-facing-backyards) **TL;DR:** The orientation of your home directly impacts sunlight and heat levels in your backyard.... [![](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/hs-fs/hubfs/WEBSITE/20191109_095413.jpg?width=365&name=20191109_095413.jpg)](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/blog/how-to-style-a-small-backyard) ## [How to Style a Small Backyard: Clever Outdoor Living Ideas for Compact Melbourne Blocks](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/blog/how-to-style-a-small-backyard) **TL;DR:** Styling a small backyard is all about maximizing utility without cluttering your floor... [![](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/hs-fs/hubfs/WEBSITE/pavilion-verandah-patio-grande-29.jpg?width=365&name=pavilion-verandah-patio-grande-29.jpg)](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/blog/creating-an-indoor-outdoor-bar-kitchen) ## [Creating an Indoor-Outdoor Bar & Kitchen: The Ultimate Setup Guide](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/blog/creating-an-indoor-outdoor-bar-kitchen) **TL;DR:** To create an exceptional indoor-outdoor bar and kitchen, focus on establishing a seamless... [![](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/hs-fs/hubfs/IMAGES/Insulated%20Panel/IMG_3245.jpeg?width=365&name=IMG_3245.jpeg)](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/blog/colorbond-steel-vs-insulated-panels-cooldek-which-keeps-your-patio-cooler-in-summer) ## [Colorbond Steel vs. Insulated Panels (Cooldek): Which Keeps Your Patio Cooler in Summer?](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/blog/colorbond-steel-vs-insulated-panels-cooldek-which-keeps-your-patio-cooler-in-summer) **TL;DR:** For homeowners looking to primarily control the summer heat, [insulated panels (such as...](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/stratco/outback-cooldek) [![](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/hs-fs/hubfs/WEBSITE/liza%20retractable%20Red.jpg?width=365&name=liza%20retractable%20Red.jpg)](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/blog/why-hospitality-venues-are-choosing-retractable-roofing) ## [Why Hospitality Venues are Choosing Retractable Roofing](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/blog/why-hospitality-venues-are-choosing-retractable-roofing) ### Table of Contents - [How do Retractable Roofs Work?](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/blog#how-do-retractable-roofs-work) - [Fabric or Louvred?](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/blog#fabric-or-louvred) [![](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/hs-fs/hubfs/SL-3ATheAppianWay-22-1.jpg?width=365&name=SL-3ATheAppianWay-22-1.jpg)](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/blog/connecting-indoor-and-outdoor-living-spaces-tips-for-seamless-flow) ## [Connecting Indoor and Outdoor Living Spaces: Tips for Seamless Flow](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/blog/connecting-indoor-and-outdoor-living-spaces-tips-for-seamless-flow) ### Table of Contents - [Key Strategies for Creating That Continuous Flow](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/blog#key-strategies-for-creating-that-continuous-flow) - [Flooring Matters](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/blog#flooring-matters) - [Ensure...](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/blog#ensure-balance-and-harmony-with-the-decor) [![](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/hs-fs/hubfs/OLD/liza%20retractable.jpg?width=365&name=liza%20retractable.jpg)](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/blog/retractable-roof-vs-louvre-roof-which-is-better-for-your-outdoor-space) ## [Retractable Roof vs Louvre Roof: Which is Better for Your Outdoor Space?](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/blog/retractable-roof-vs-louvre-roof-which-is-better-for-your-outdoor-space) Whether you love hosting outdoor gatherings or simply enjoy unwinding in the fresh air, a... [![](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/hs-fs/hubfs/WEBSITE/20191218_190517.jpg?width=365&name=20191218_190517.jpg)](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/blog/how-much-does-a-retractable-roof-cost-in-australia-2026-guide) ## [How Much Does a Retractable Roof Cost in Australia? (2026 Guide)](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/blog/how-much-does-a-retractable-roof-cost-in-australia-2026-guide) When it comes to upgrading an outdoor space, a retractable roof is one of the most impactful... [![](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/hs-fs/hubfs/WEBSITE/outdoor-louvre-roof-system.jpg?width=365&name=outdoor-louvre-roof-system.jpg)](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/blog/louvre-roof-maintenance-how-to-keep-your-system-running-smoothly) ## [Louvre Roof Maintenance: How to Keep Your System Running Smoothly](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/blog/louvre-roof-maintenance-how-to-keep-your-system-running-smoothly) Investing in a louvre roof for your pergola is not just about giving you a stylish new roof, it is... [![](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/hs-fs/hubfs/WEBSITE/Patios%20Verandah%20Carport%20Outback%20Sunroof%2006.jpg?width=365&name=Patios%20Verandah%20Carport%20Outback%20Sunroof%2006.jpg)](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/blog/10-modern-veranda-design-ideas-for-australian-homes-in-2026) ## [10 Modern Veranda Design Ideas for Australian Homes in 2026](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/blog/10-modern-veranda-design-ideas-for-australian-homes-in-2026) Creating your own elegant outdoor living space not only adds value to your property but adds so... First Prev [1](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/blog) [2](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/blog/page/2) [Next](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/blog/page/2) [Last](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/blog/page/2) ![Outdoor InDesign](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/hubfs/raw_assets/public/outdoorindesign-theme/images/logo-footer.svg) Melbourne's specialists in premium outdoor living spaces — pergolas, louvred roofs, alfresco structures, and commercial builds. [Client Portal](https://buildertrend.net/) #### Quick Links - [Accreditations](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/accreditation) - [What We Do](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/what-we-do) - [Residential Spaces](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/outdoor-design-construction) - [Commercial Structures](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/commercial-outdoor-structures) - [Retractable Roofing](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/retractable-roofing) - [Pergolas](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/retractable-pergolas) - [Louvred Roof Systems](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/louvered-roof-system) - [Blogs](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/blog) - [Contact](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/contact) #### Accreditations ![Accreditation logos](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/hubfs/raw_assets/public/outdoorindesign-theme/images/footer-logos.svg) #### Contact - 📞 [1300 212 333](tel:1300212333) - ✉️ [contact@outdoorindesign.com](mailto:contact@outdoorindesign.com) - [Custom Outdoor Living Solutions in Melbourne](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/) - [Retractable Outdoor Roof Systems in Melbourne](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/retractable-roofing) - [Retractable Outdoor Roof Systems in Sydney](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/retractable-roofing/sydney) - [Retractable Pergola Roofs in Melbourne](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/retractable-pergolas) - [Louvred Roof Pergola](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/retractable-pergolas) - [Pergolas Bendigo](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/pergolas-bendigo) - [Pergola Installers in Melbourne](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/retractable-pergolas) - [Outdoor Louvered Awning Roof System](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/louvered-roof-system) - [Louvered Pergola](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/louvre-pergolas) - [Motorised Aluminium Louvre Roof](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/louvered-roof-system) - [Retractable Louvre Roof in Melbourne](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/louvered-roof-system) - [Alfresco Builders in Melbourne](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/) - [Louvered Roof Pergola](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/louvered-roof-pergola) - [Pergolas in Melbourne](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/pergolas-melbourne) - [Retractable Patio Roof](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/louvered-roof-system) - [Patio Louvered Roofing](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/louvered-roof-system) - [Custom Patio Builders in Melbourne](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/) - [Adjustable Louvered Pergolas](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/adjustable-louvered-pergolas) - [Patio Builders in Melbourne](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/patio-builders-melbourne) © 2026 Outdoor InDesign | All rights reserved | [Privacy Policy](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/privacy-policy/) | [Popular Searches](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/blog#popular-searches)[Hide Popular Searches](https://www.outdoorindesign.com.au/blog#popular-searches) | Website by [Pixeld](https://www.pixeld.com.au) X ```json { "@context" : "http://schema.org", "@type" : "LocalBusiness", "address" : { "@type" : "PostalAddress", "addressCountry" : "AU", "addressLocality" : "Ringwood", "addressRegion" : "VIC", "postalCode" : "3134", "streetAddress" : "14/21 Eugene Terrace" }, "aggregateRating" : { "@type" : "AggregateRating", "ratingValue" : "5", "reviewCount" : "50" }, "description" : "Outdoor InDesign are leading specialists in the creation of custom outdoor spaces, structures, and landscaping. Servicing all of Melbourne, we provide high-quality, custom-designed and fully engineered outdoor solutions including verandahs, patios, carports, retractable roofing, louvre roofs, swimming pools, spas, and complete landscaping services.", "geo" : { "@type" : "GeoCoordinates", "latitude" : "-37.8136", "longitude" : "145.2275" }, "image" : "https://www.outdoorindesign.com/hs-fs/hubfs/OI-LogoReverse@4x.png", "name" : "Outdoor InDesign", "openingHours" : "Mo,Tu,We,Th,Fr 09:00-17:00", "sameAs" : [ "https://www.instagram.com/outdoor_indesign/", "https://www.wordofmouth.com.au/reviews/outdoor-indesign" ], "telephone" : "1300 212 333" } ``` ```json { "@context" : "http://schema.org", "@type" : "WebSite", "description" : "Melbourne's leading outdoor design and landscaping experts. Over 10 years of experience transforming outdoor spaces with custom structures, retractable roofing, landscaping, and swimming pools.", "name" : "Outdoor InDesign - Innovative Outdoor Spaces & Landscaping Melbourne", "potentialAction" : { "@type" : "SearchAction", "query-input" : "required name=search_term_string", "target" : "https://www.outdoorindesign.com/search?q={search_term_string}" }, "url" : "https://www.outdoorindesign.com/" } ```