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Peta Tomlinson

If we needed any more incentive to value outdoor space in a crowded city, Covid-19 well and truly drove that message home.
Sean Affleck, Make Architects Asia and UK director, says it was wonderful to see so many low-rise rooftops being used during the pandemic, functioning as home gyms, home offices, entertaining spaces and dining rooms.

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“This gave inspiration for how these spaces could be used more effectively and it would be great to see developers use the opportunity to integrate more active roof terraces for the benefit of their residents,” he says.
“And of course, not only rooftops. The Hong Kong government is encouraging balconies on new developments by discounting gross floor area calculations, which can only be a good thing.” For those fortunate enough to have outdoor space, Affleck advocates integrating shade, shelter and cooling to make the space work for you throughout the seasons.
“Plants are worth the investment,” he says. “They are brilliant at reducing the ‘heat island’ effect and minimising the heat absorbed by concrete floors and walls so that the space cools when the sun goes down, rather than reradiating heat in the evenings.”

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Adding an external high volume, low-speed fan will get the air to gently move on hot, still days and nights. “It will feel a much nicer place to be at times when there is no breeze at all,” he says.
Affleck recommends choosing your plants wisely as certain species can also minimise noise and pollution – this is a great benefit in a city which is always evolving and redeveloping. Providing some shelter will make the space usable in rainy seasons, but incorporate drainage to avoid mosquitoes breeding in stagnant and standing pools of water.
“This shelter could also be designed to act as a screen for a little extra privacy, but make sure it’s porous to maximise the fresh air benefits of this outside space,” he says.
“All in all, these spaces can become an extension to your home that can greatly benefit your well-being – it won’t be the same as a hike, but it brings nature that bit closer and provides room to breathe that fresh air we’ve craved (during lockdown).”
Designer Britta Butler, of B Squared Design Ltd in Wong Chuk Hang, agrees that 2020 has changed many people’s perceptions.
“A lot of my clients have taken to entertaining at home with just two or three people in order to stay Covid-19 safe, whereas before they went out most the time,” she says. “Now, the trend is to stay at home, and really make use of the outdoor space – whether it is a balcony, a terrace or a rooftop, as an extension of the home.
“Making this area inviting and comfortable is key, along with choosing pieces that can remain outdoors most of the time,” she says. “By this I mean not having to lug out furniture and pillows every time you want to use the space. It becomes a hassle and you won’t use the outdoor area at all if you have to wrestle with it all the time.”

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Craig Pallister, managing director, Everything Under the Sun, recommends synthetic weaves for outdoor furniture as they can withstand moisture and temperature variations.
“Structure of the weave ensures elasticity and optimal sitting comfort,” Pallister explains. “It is UV-resistant, requires minimal maintenance and is also incredibly lightweight. Homeowners can easily move the outdoor furniture around without any help.”
Another strong and weather resistant material is woven rope. This technique is as old as time – it is claimed the ancient Egyptians used rope to create furniture – and it’s enjoying a recent resurgence as part of the wider “back to nature” trend.
“Strong and flexible, rope furniture can be left outside all year round, and there is a wide range of styles, designs and colours to choose from,” says Pallister. “Used in conjunction with other materials such as teak and stainless-steel frames gives this furniture a breathtaking look.”
Close-knit weave of stretch rope is also used in Kilt’s range of outdoor furniture. The brand’s outdoor furniture, available at Zzue Creation, often includes the added element of a teak frame, which lends these design that natural look which allows them to blend pleasingly with natural outdoor surroundings.
Also found at Zzue Creation is Emma range of alfresco chairs from Italian brand Varaschin. Taking a page from the woven design trend, Varaschin’s chairs blends practicality with style.
Adding a stylish daybed will not only make a strong visual impact, but completely change the idea of outdoor relaxation, Pallister continues.
“Daybeds inspire people to set digital devices aside and find moments of calm,” he says.
Lighting plays a key role in creating visual interest and an inviting atmosphere, setting the mood for alfresco dining and outdoor entertaining when the sun sets. Solar lighting is a growing trend, but you can also opt for hi-tech, multifunctional pieces, such as a parasol with built-in light options, which effortlessly goes from providing shade in the daytime to creating atmosphere in the evening.
HOW TO CREATE A COMFY OUTDOOR SPACE
Britta Butler, of B Squared Design Ltd, offers these tips on achieving an inviting and fuss-free patio.

• Think about how you will use the space: at different times of the day, and night, and for various party sizes. This will inform whether you will need sun shades, dividers, etc.
• Choose pieces that are easy to move, such as sectionals and modular furniture. Having daybeds and benches that can include storage will up the usability quotient.
• Consider durability: woven textures like wicker, jute and rope are great for all environments.
• Incorporate different textures and materials for a layered and well-thought out look. Classic combinations of metal and wood gives a wonderful juxtaposition of sleek and matte. Luxurious metallics like copper and bronze look amazing next to natural wood elements.
• All-weather linen, faux-fur throws and pillows add a unique touch to outdoor set-ups.


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Varaschin Emma Cross chair available at Zzue Creation. Photo: Zzue Creation

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Nestled among the aspens, 183 East Fork Lane in Snowmass Village, Colorado, has an outdoor pool and multiple patios. Photo: Knight Frank & Douglas Elliman

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Special Reports


From plants to sturdy, durable furniture, there are plenty of ways to transform even the tiniest outdoor space into a comfortable haven – the experts tell us how to do it



From plants to durable furniture, there are plenty of ways to transform even the tiniest outdoor space into a comfortable haven – the experts tell us how to do it


Covid-19 keeping you indoors? Here’s how to make the most of your Hong Kong balcony or rooftop

.css-1mniedq{color:inherit;font-weight:inherit;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;line-height:inherit;} From plants to sturdy, durable furniture, there are plenty of ways to transform even the tiniest outdoor space into a comfortable haven – the experts tell us how to do it

From plants to sturdy, durable furniture, there are plenty of ways to transform even the tiniest outdoor space into a comfortable haven – the experts tell us how to do it