Tired of Wasted Outdoor Space? Discover Seamless Living With Alfresco Extensions Melbourne

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Transform Your Melbourne Outdoor Area into a Stunning Alfresco Extension That Adds Value and Comfort

Is your outdoor area falling short of its true potential? Do you want to rejuvenate your space and upgrade your lifestyle?

Many homeowners struggle with underutilised backyards or patios that don’t fully integrate with their living space, leading to missed opportunities for relaxation and entertainment. At Custom Outdoor Living, we specialise in crafting bespoke alfresco extensions in Melbourne that seamlessly blend with your home, providing the perfect solution for creating a functional, inviting outdoor area.

With years of experience transforming outdoor spaces across Melbourne, our skilled team brings unmatched craftsmanship and attention to detail.

The Custom Outdoor Living Advantage

26+ years of transforming outdoor spaces and homes
Experts in space-saving and space-creating solutions for all budgets

We combine innovative design with high-quality materials to ensure your alfresco area is not only beautiful but built to last. Trust in our proven expertise to enhance your property’s value and lifestyle.

Ready to maximise your outdoor living potential? Contact us today at 1300 724 118 or request your quote online to save time!

Trusted by Melbourne Homeowners – Highly Rated Alfresco

				Rod Doyle			

							A great bunch of people to deal with right through from Matt initially to Glen, Mark, Demi and their extended tradies, to complete our fantastic carport.   Getting drawings done up from made the project come to life, a worthwhile exercise.   All in All, we can only express our gratitude and respect to everyone involved at Custom Outdoor Living.
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				Tim & Marie Holt			

							We could not have been more pleased with our experience with COL.  Our new brick garage project was managed by Matt and Glen with thought, care and professionalism from start to finish.  The services and timeline were all as promised and the work of great quality. We are super happy with the finished garage.  The communication regards timing etc throughout was really fantastic and any questions we had answered/addressed readily.  I would certainly recommend these guys to friends and use them again ourselves if the need arose.
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				Michael Pierce			

							From start to finish Custom Outdoor were committed to get the right design, style and finish.  Super impressed with the attention to detail and minor tweaks to make all the components fit together seamlessly.
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				Jenny			

							This is the second carport we have had built by the team. Our first can be seen on the website - a period style carport in Templestowe. We love their professionalism and attention to detail so we engaged them again for a new carport at our new property. Even the building inspector complemented their workmanship. Thanks team - again!
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				David & Alexis			

							Very impressed with the whole process from start to finish. The design stage with Matt was smooth and professional, and any unusual requests (for example, custom sized windows) were readily accomodated There was a robust consultative process so we were confident with the plans. All the required regulatory paperwork was also organised on our behalf. The build itself was refreshingly fast and professional, with reliable trades who clearly knew their business, all overseen by the attentive site manager, Glen.  The end build quality for our garage, was far better than what we have seen in most new-build houses.  Altogether, a very professional operation with excellent attention to quality and service.
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				Anthony Frizza			

							C.O.L. turned an idea into reality within the time frame and budget originally allocated. The project with multiple trades was professionally organised whilst the whole team was a pleasure to deal with.
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				Joshua Nester			

							Owner and builder Matt kindly spent 30 mins with me on Zoom, quickly accessing floorplans and aerial views of my property online and sharing these on-screen with me and discussing options.  He quickly reshaped my thinking with his expert knowledge and set me on the right path.  This is despite his company not being in a position to help us given the scope of work, which he was upfront about. I am extremely grateful to Matt for his time, expert advice and willingness to help.
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				Katrina Phemister			

							Could not be happier with Custom Outdoor Living! Matt and Glen were organised, responsive to our requests and regularly in communication about progress on our job. Our new garage took no time at all and is exactly what we wanted.
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				Zenon Charalambous			

							Matt, Mark, Glen and the team did an incredible job. They gave great advice during the design stage, were very professional, got the job complete on time, and kept us up to date with clear communication every step of the way. We're incredibly happy with the results
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				Sam			

							It has been a wonderful experience with Matt and his team at Custom Outdoor Living throughout the whole process for our project. During our initial meetings, Matt explained the process and stages clearly.  He listened and understood our requirements and provided his honest and professional inputs during the consultation phase.   We were able to visualise the end product with a detailed set of plans and concept drawings and Matt was patient as we made amendments until we were happy with the design.  Moving to the build phase, the project was then handed over to Glen. Like Matt, Glen was very pleasant and professional to work with.  Additionally, the experienced tradesmen that worked on site were all friendly and delivered quality work. Glen was frequently on site to ensure work was completed with quality and on time.  Even when we were away for a few weeks, Glen constantly provided us with updates including photos of the progress.  Overall, we are very happy with the end result of our new carport and driveway and would highly recommend Custom Outdoor Living
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				Meagan Bauer			

							Matt and his team recently completed our backyard renovation, and we are really happy with the results. The whole process was smooth, and they were able to incorporate all of the ideas we had into the design. From the start, their attention to detail was clear, which helped bring everything together nicely for our project What stood out the most was the team's professionalism. Matt, Glen and Mark were always available to answer any questions along the way. They were easy to work with, kept us informed, and made sure everything was completed to a high standard. The renovation has really improved our outdoor space. It is a place our family will enjoy spending time in all year round, and we are glad we chose Matt and his team. We would definitely recommend them for your project.
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				Andrew H			

							The Outdoor Living Team have been great to deal with and have built a wonderful extension to our alfresco area. The initial advice/guidance from Matt was very valuable and the digitally rendered plans really helped us to visualise the project. During the construction, the project oversight has been excellent with very regular check-ins to review the progress and the quality of the work being done. We would be happy to recommend the Outdoor Living Team.
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				Liam O'Brien			

							We used custom outdoor living for our garage construction. Matt was great throughout guiding us to a achievable design within our budget. Glenn, Mark and the building team were fantastic to work with and were attentive to our requests and silly questions. The whole process was very smooth and we are very happy with our experience with custom outdoor living.
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				Tammy Medard			

							Matt and his team were phenomenal. They were great communicators along the way and there were no surprises. Their cost and timing estimates were accurate and everyone working on site was always respectful and committed to excellence. We are very happy with their work and would recommend them highly.
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				Peter Bosland			

							Custom Outdoor Living replaced our ancient asbestos shed with an awesome new garage. Matt and his team kept us fully informed throughout the process, each time letting us know exactly what would happen and when. Pleasantly, everything they said they would do - they did. All involved (Matt, Demi, Glen, and all the different tradies, were thorough, efficient, courteous and flexible. Overall: A great job, exceeding expectations. Cheers guys!
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				Michael Dale			

							I spent something like 6 months talking to builders about a garage adjoining a narrow laneway in an inner Melbourne suburb.  I was frustrated by the conditions they imposed for the project. Then I found Custom Outdoor Living!  At the first meeting, Matt Goodie convinced me that he understood the building permits and infrastructure regulation requirements that are needed for an inner Melbourne suburb (old houses, narrow laneways, old infrastructure).  Matt produced working drawings within a month. From there, through the stages to complete the design and get planning approval, Matt kept me up-to-date.  For the construction phase, Matt handed over to Glen.  Glen kept me informed at each stage of the build, ensuring that I knew which teams would be working each week, and worked with me to ensure the end result was a top quality job.  I would thoroughly recommend Custom Outdoor Design.
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				Damon Rhodes			

							The Custom Outdoor Living team are nearing completion of works at our house.  They have constructed many metres of retaining wall, concrete paths, an alfresco, balcony, and facilitated access by removing and replacing the back wall of our garage.  Our job had several aspects that can often make builders run a mile - steep slope, easements, and a requirement to closely co-ordinate with other groups of tradies through very restricted access.  It is a testament to the experience and attitude of the Custom team that they handled all of this without breaking a sweat.  From inception through design to construction, Matt (the principal) has been trustworthy, honest and transparent to deal with, and has delivered on all of his commitments.  Glen (the site foreman) was very focused on keeping us up to date on what building works were coming up and proactive in offering improvements on the way.  The crews and subcontractors were great to have around and were always respectful and produced work to the highest standard.  I have recommended the team to neighbours looking to do similar upgrades, and will not hesitate to call Matt again for any further building works required in the future.
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				jimmy d			

							Custom Outdoor Living did a fantastic job, it went from just an idea that I had to becoming a reality. I had my driveway redone and a carport, garage and pergola built, everything was blended in nicely and looks like it was always part of the house. Big thanks to Matt, Glen, Mark and the rest of the team. Cheers James
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				Steve			

							Fantastic job and workmanship is incredible, very impressed with the way it all turned out. Couldn't  recommend highly enough, everything went to plan and nothing was to difficult. A big thanks to Matt and the team, another job they can be proud of, not to mention a very, very happy customer. Thanks again Steve.
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				Chrissy M			

							We are stoked to have found the Custom Outdoor Living team to work on our alfresco. We had massive leaking issues in our alfresco for many years due to inferior quality build from a previous builder (In Vogue - huge disappointment) that needed fixing for good. The project was superbly handled by Glen, Mark and their team of contractors. Communication was perfect. We were kept up to date on daily activities and expected timelines at each stage. The team was efficient in handling any issues discovered as the project developed. Renovation is an expensive exercise and it can be a challenge in locating a trusted builder.
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				Sally Young			

							Highly recommend! We needed to fix up our dated tired alfresco but weren't exactly sure of the best way to do it. We greatly appreciated the advice in the initial consultation and the plan captured the key elements that we wanted.  The building process was smooth with an excellent project manager and any concerns were promptly and professionally dealt with. The finished product is not only well built but looks great. The new space is now a much loved area, used by all the family, very happy!
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				Domenic Alvaro			

							It has been a pleasure dealing with Custom Outdoor Living to have our Alfresco area built.  Once we settled on a design we were able to refine the plans to get exactly what we wanted. This gave us confidence to know what we were getting before we started. They delivered a quality build that is exactly what we were after, and we couldn't be happier.  The builders and contractors have all been professional and courteous, and the Customer Outdoor Living team managed the project wonderfully and made it easy for us.  We would recommend them without hesitation.
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				Garth D'Rozario			

							Matt, Glen and the whole team are the most professional builders we have dealt with. From the inception of the project until completion they were always available to take a phone call with any questions or accomodate any of my requests. They were always there on site on the agreed days and never caused a delay. Their standard of work was of a very high quality and they took great pride in their work. Most importantly Matt was extremely patient with us when the project went on longer than anticipated. Thanks Matt, Glenn and the rest of the team.
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				Dhanesh Nayyar			

							We are happy to see our extension completed in timely manner and very pleased with the quality. The extension flows well with the existing house and thanks to Matt and his team for the same. Matt understood our needs and was able to guide us with some pragmatic changes to ensure we could meet the objectives in cost effective manner. Total process from design, permits and execution was well explained and he made it very simple for us. His knowledge and experience and hard work of his team is much appreciated. Disha and Dhanesh
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				Paula Selway			

							From our initial consult through to completion, Custom Outdoor Living have been sensational to work with.  Our new alfresco decking is everything we envisaged! Professionalism and fantastic communication throughout the build from the entire team. High quality workmanship and meticulous attention to detail from the whole team of trades. Super friendly, always on time and kept us in the loop at every stage.  Thank you Matt, Glen, Demi, Mark, Mick and all the trades who made this a seamless experience and have delivered a sensational outdoor space. Would highly recommended Matt and the team at Custom Outdoor Living.
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				suzanne fry			

							We are so glad we engaged Matt and the team at Custom Outdoor Living to construct our alfresco roof. Right from the start Matt displayed professionalism during the consultation and design stage and his team of tradesmen and contractors were always courteous, friendly and took pride in their work. Glen as Project Manager kept us well informed throughout the whole process and we felt that we could approach him with any concerns if they arose. Our alfresco roof blends seemlessly with the rest of the house and that is exactly what we wanted to achieve. Would highly recommend Custom Outdoor Living.
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				Sam Axford			

							We highly recommend Custom Outdoor Living - we had an outdoor deck and verandah constructed attached to our old Victorian weatherboard and are very happy with the result.  Matt was exceptionally professional and transparent throughout the entire conception, planning and approval process. He is very experienced and helped us turn initial ideas into real plans with many adjustments through the process. He helped navigate the convoluted planning and engineering process very smoothly, always being transparent where there might be issues or delays. There was a clear cost structure and payments were outlined in stage based instalments. Matt went above and beyond, also helping us find a great concreter when we were struggling to get anyone to come by even for a quote.  During the build stage Glen came on as project manager and was an excellent point of communication, it was very clear what was happening and when. Any questions or concerns were taken seriously and addressed. Unfortunately we had a concurrent bathroom renovation occurring and Glen was able to help navigate the inconvenience of this situation. The carpentry, electrical, plumbing and painting crew were all very friendly and professional and we're really happy with the workmanship.  *Will upload pictures once landscaping complete
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				Anthony Arkcoll			

							We used Custom Outdoor Living to replace our back outdoor living area. They did such a good job that we asked them to also refurbish our laundry area. They have done a superb job. Always punctual, follow up regularly and completed both projects on time & budget. Their paperwork is also meticulous. I highly recommend Matt & his team.
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				Alun Stevens			

							Matt Goodie and his team designed and built us a beautiful carport. They organised all the council approvals too. The workmanship is top grade. The project management was also top grade. Milestones were agreed and all were met save one when extreme heat forced work to stop. Professional and friendly. Altogether a very satisfying experience.
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				George Hopkinson			

							Matt Goodie and the team did a fantastic job on our alfresco dining area. It was built within our large(ish) courtyard. Matt worked with us on a feasible construction and presented several solutions to achieve our goal whilst adhering to council easement requirements. Matt organised all the council approvals and made it very easy. When the build commenced the workmanship and professionalism was first class. Project management was efficient and communication at each stage was excellent. Matt was always very helpful if we needed clarity on any of the items we discussed or in the contract.  Very happy and would recommend.
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Signs it’s time for an alfresco extensions

✓ You want to get creative with your outdoor space: If your current outdoor area feels underutilised, cramped, or uncomfortable for gatherings, the extension can transform it into a functional, inviting space.

✓ You want seamless indoor-outdoor living: If you desire a space that flows naturally from your home to the outdoors, the extension can create a seamless transition, perfect for both entertaining and everyday living.

✓ You want to increase property value: If you’re looking to boost your home’s market appeal and overall value, adding an alfresco space can be an excellent investment.

✓ You want year-round comfort: If Melbourne’s unpredictable weather limits your outdoor activities, the extension with weatherproofing solutions can provide a sheltered, comfortable area to enjoy in any season.

The extension is ideal if you want to elevate your outdoor lifestyle, enhance your home’s aesthetic, and create a space that supports relaxation and socialising.

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How long does an alfresco extension take to finish?

These projects can vary depending on the size and complexity of the project. You’ll need to factor in things like the level of design customisation and weather conditions.

Generally, here’s what you can expect:

Planning and Design Phase: Typically takes 2-4 weeks. This includes consultations, design drafting, and obtaining necessary permits or council approvals.
Construction Phase: The actual building process can range from 4-12 weeks, depending on the scale of the project and any custom features included.
Final Touches and Inspections: Adding finishing details, performing quality checks, and conducting inspections usually require an additional 1-2 weeks.

Key Influencing Factors:

Complexity of the Design: More intricate designs with built-in features or unique structural elements may extend the timeline.
Weather Conditions: Melbourne’s weather can be unpredictable, which may occasionally delay certain stages of construction.
Material Availability: Special or imported materials might add to the timeframe if there are supply delays.

Overall, most alfresco extensions are completed within a 2-4 month period from start to finish.

Interested in learning more? Contact a member of the Custom Outdoor Living Team today.

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CHECKLIST: How to identify a professional alfresco builder

Review Portfolios and Past Projects: Choose a provider with an impressive portfolio of completed projects that align with the design style and quality you’re seeking. High-quality imagery and detailed descriptions of past work can offer insights into their expertise and attention to detail.

Check Qualifications and Experience: Look for companies with a proven track record and extensive experience. Providers with established reputations often bring a depth of knowledge that ensures smooth project execution.

Customer Testimonials and Reviews: Reading reviews and testimonials can give you an idea of a provider’s reliability, communication, and ability to meet client expectations. Ensure that reviews are recent and cover multiple aspects of the service, from initial consultation to final completion.

Transparent Quotes and Pricing: A professional provider will offer clear, detailed quotes that outline costs, timelines, and what is included in the project.

Licences and Insurance: Ensure the provider has the necessary licences and insurance to carry out construction work. This is crucial for protecting your investment and ensuring compliance with local building regulations.

Personalised Approach: Select a company that listens to your needs, offers tailored solutions, and adapts to your vision. Providers that focus on custom designs show commitment to making your project uniquely yours.

Ready to maximise your outdoor living potential? Contact us today at 1300 724 118 or request your quote online to save time!

Frequently Asked Questions About Alfresco Extensions in Melbourne

What is the best material for an alfresco extension?

The best material depends on your aesthetic, budget, and the durability needed to handle Melbourne’s unpredictable climate. Some of the most common materials include:

Timber: A popular choice for its natural warmth and timeless appeal. Hardwoods such as merbau and spotted gum are ideal for decking due to their resilience and beauty. Timber requires regular maintenance to prevent wear and weather damage.
Composite Decking: A low-maintenance, eco-friendly alternative that resists rot, warping, and termites. It provides the look of wood without the need for frequent upkeep, making it a practical option.
Aluminium and Steel: Often used for roofing and structural elements, these materials are strong, lightweight, and rust-resistant, ensuring longevity and minimal maintenance.
Natural Stone and Tiles: Perfect for flooring, natural stone or high-quality outdoor tiles add a luxurious feel and are weatherproof and easy to clean.

Do I need council approval for an alfresco extension?

In most cases, you won’t need council approval. This may change depending on factors such as the size of your extension, its proximity to property boundaries, and any local zoning or heritage overlays that may apply to your property.

Key Points:

Building Permits: Most extensions require a building permit to ensure compliance with local building codes and safety standards.
Planning Permits: If your property is subject to certain zoning regulations or overlays, such as heritage or environmental protection, a planning permit may also be necessary.

How will an alfresco extension improve my home’s value?

Improved Lifestyle Appeal: Seamlessly blend indoor and outdoor living, creating an inviting area for entertaining, relaxing, and family gatherings. Potential buyers often see this as a premium feature that enhances daily living and makes a home more appealing.
Increased Usable Space: Expand your home’s living space without the need for a full-scale renovation. This additional functional area can be used year-round, making the property more versatile and attractive to prospective buyers.
Higher Market Value: A well-executed alfresco area can boost your property’s market value, making it stand out in Melbourne’s competitive real estate market. Homes with outdoor living spaces tend to command higher prices, especially when the extension includes features like built-in seating, outdoor kitchens, or weatherproofing solutions.

What features can be included in an alfresco extension?

Outdoor Kitchens: Adding a built-in BBQ, cooktop, or full kitchen setup with countertops and storage can turn your alfresco space into an outdoor dining hub perfect for entertaining guests.
Weatherproofing Solutions: Features such as retractable awnings, louvred roofs, and enclosed sliding panels allow for year-round enjoyment by protecting against Melbourne’s unpredictable weather.
Lighting and Heating: Incorporate ambient lighting, such as LED strip lights or pendant lamps, to create a welcoming atmosphere. Outdoor heaters or built-in fireplaces ensure comfort during cooler months.
Built-In Seating and Furniture: Custom benches or seating areas tailored to fit your design add both style and practicality. Choose durable, weather-resistant materials to keep the space looking great over time.
Flooring Options: Choose from natural timber, composite decking, or stylish outdoor tiles to create the foundation of your alfresco area that complements your home’s overall design.
Entertainment Features: Integrated sound systems, televisions, or projectors can elevate your extension, making it a true extension of your indoor living space.

Are there any maintenance requirements to worry about?

Regular Cleaning: Routine cleaning helps keep the space inviting and in good condition. Sweep and mop the floors regularly, and use appropriate cleaning solutions for the materials (e.g., mild soap for timber or tiles).
Timber Maintenance: If your extension includes timber elements, such as decking, regular oiling or sealing is necessary to protect it from moisture, UV rays, and general wear. Reapply a protective finish every 6-12 months, depending on exposure.
Check for Weather Damage: Melbourne’s weather can be harsh, so inspect roofing, awnings, and any enclosed areas for damage after heavy rains or storms. Repairing issues quickly helps avoid larger problems down the line.
Inspect and Maintain Fixtures: If your alfresco space includes built-in features like kitchens, heating units, or lighting, ensure they are functioning correctly. Clean outdoor kitchens and grills after use, and check that electrical and gas connections are safe.
Protect Against Mould and Mildew: In damp areas, mould and mildew can develop, especially on shaded or enclosed parts. Use anti-mould solutions and ensure good airflow to keep these issues at bay.