kitchen outdoors, perfect for hosting dinner with mates or a Sunday brekkie with the family.

Most importantly, these upgrades aren’t just about looks; they’re usable. When designed properly, they work across seasons, stand up to Aussie conditions, and give back in lifestyle and property value.

Decks: Level Up Your Backyard

Decking is one of the most popular upgrades we do, and for good reason.

Function

Decks make uneven yards usable, create a smooth transition from indoors to out, and are ideal for anything from lounging in the sun to hosting a BBQ.

Style

Whether you go for classic merbau, durable spotted gum, or composite decking with lower maintenance, your choice of material will influence both the look and the upkeep. We often help clients pick a finish that matches their home’s existing aesthetic—warm timber tones for classic cottages, or sleek composites for newer builds.

Durability

Timber choices matter. Treated pine is a great budget option, but hardwoods like ironbark, blackbutt or spotted gum hold up better in Sydney’s mixed weather. Composite decking is great if you want something low-maintenance and resistant to warping, rot and fading.

Tip: Be mindful of the northern sun and the direction of your boards. A little planning now means better shade and drainage down the track.

Pergolas: Shade, Style and Structure

A pergola does more than just provide shade. It creates a designated space, a visual and functional anchor for your outdoor zone.

Climate Control

With Sydney’s heat in summer and unpredictable showers in spring, a pergola helps control light and airflow. Choose between open-lattice, fixed roofing or even adjustable louvre systems for flexible coverage.
Material Options

Pergolas can be made with treated pine, hardwood, powder-coated aluminium, or even steel. It comes down to the look you’re after, your budget, and how much maintenance you're happy with. Timber offers a warm, natural finish. Aluminium or Colorbond frames give a sleek, modern look and are practically maintenance-free.

Built-In Features

Want to enjoy your outdoor area in the evenings? Add downlights or outdoor fans. Keen to entertain in winter? Heat strips or a fireplace built into a pergola setup create year-round comfort. We’ve even installed outdoor projector screens for clients who want a cinema feel under the stars.

Alfresco Areas: Outdoor Living, Done Properly

Alfrescos are that sweet spot between indoors and outdoors. They’re usually built under the same roofline as the home and flow straight from the kitchen, dining or living areas.

Entertaining Space

Perfect for family dinners, birthday BBQs, or just kicking back after work. With options like outdoor kitchens, built-in benches, and all-weather roofing, an alfresco setup becomes a natural extension of your home.

Seamless Design

At MLJ, we always aim for integration, not just an add-on. We match roofing profiles, floor levels and even wall finishes so that your alfresco feels like it was always meant to be there.

Materials That Last

We guide you through outdoor-rated finishes, like non-slip tiling, weatherproof cabinetry, and UV-resistant blinds, to ensure your alfresco area stays comfortable and practical in all seasons.

Council Approvals and Regulations

This is where many DIY jobs come undone. In NSW, outdoor structures like decks, pergolas and alfresco areas often require council approval or at least compliance with development standards.

As a fully licensed builder, MLJ handles all this for you, from drawings and engineering to submitting plans and dealing with council. We ensure your build meets:

  • Height restrictions
  • Boundary setbacks
  • Stormwater drainage compliance
  • Bushfire zone requirements, where applicable

We also make sure that your structure isn’t just compliant, but safe, durable and built to code. No shortcuts.

Styling Ideas and Finishing Touches

What makes an outdoor space feel like part of the home? The finishing touches.

▪ Lighting

Ambient wall lights, step lights or festoon lights for atmosphere.

▪ Furnishings

Invest in weather-resistant lounges, bar settings, or even a fire pit zone. Soft textiles like outdoor cushions and rugs make a big difference in comfort.

▪ Landscaping

Frame your structure with native plants, climbing vines, or garden beds to soften hard edges and add privacy.

▪ Privacy Screens

Timber slats, decorative screens or vertical gardens add both charm and discretion, especially in tighter suburban blocks.

What to Expect When You Build with MLJ

At MLJ Constructions, we’re not about cookie-cutter builds. Every outdoor structure we deliver is tailored to the client, built to match their lifestyle, budget, and the flow of their home.

With us, you get:

  • Honest, upfront quotes
  • Skilled trades and licensed builders
  • Guidance through council red tape
  • Quality work that lasts

We don’t disappear after the final screw is in. We build relationships, not just structures. That’s why locals across Sydney, Camden and Macarthur trust MLJ for renovations, custom homes and outdoor extensions that deliver long-term value.

Ready to Extend Your Lifestyle Outdoors?

Whether you’ve been searching “home builders near me”, comparing local builders, or just tossing up ideas with renovation companies near me, we’re glad you found us.

Let’s talk about how we can transform your outdoor space into something you’ll use every day, not just on weekends.

Back to Articles
Back to Articles