Outdoor Living Spaces: Designing for the South African Climate

Nov 22, 2024By Charl Ubbink
Charl Ubbink

There’s something uniquely magical about outdoor living in South Africa. Whether it’s the warm summer evenings, the sound of birdsong, or the aroma of a perfectly grilled braai, our outdoor spaces are where memories are made. As someone who has worked on countless architectural design projects, I can confidently say that creating functional and beautiful outdoor spaces is one of the most rewarding aspects of home design.

In South Africa, where the climate ranges from sun-drenched coastal breezes in the Western Cape to the subtropical warmth of KwaZulu-Natal, outdoor living isn’t just a luxury—it’s a lifestyle. Today, I want to share my personal insights and ideas for designing outdoor spaces that are as practical as they are stunning, with a special focus on verandas, braai areas, and water-wise gardens.

1. Verandas: The Heart of Outdoor Living


A veranda is more than just an extension of your home; it’s a space that blurs the lines between indoors and outdoors. Growing up, our family veranda was the hub of our home—a place for morning coffees, lazy Sunday lunches, and watching summer storms roll in.

When designing a veranda, the key is to think about how you’ll use the space. Do you need a dining area, a cosy lounge setup, or a combination of both? Here are my top tips:

Shelter is Key: South African weather can be unpredictable, so invest in a durable roof or pergola to provide shade and protection from rain. Polycarbonate roofing or retractable awnings are great options for controlling sunlight and keeping things cool.

Choose Weather-Resistant Materials: Opt for outdoor furniture made from materials like aluminium, teak, or treated wicker that can withstand the elements. Add cushions with UV-resistant and washable fabric for comfort and practicality.

Layer with Textures: Rugs, throws, and outdoor curtains can soften the look and make your veranda feel more like an outdoor room.
Personally, I love adding a statement ceiling fan to verandas—it’s practical for hot summer days and adds a touch of elegance to the space.

3D render of urban patio at twilight with fire place and wooden table

2. Braai Areas: A South African Staple

No South African home is complete without a braai area. It’s not just a cooking space; it’s where we gather, laugh, and share stories. Designing a braai area is all about functionality and flow.

In my own braai area, I focused on creating a space that encourages interaction while keeping the cooking process efficient. Here are some ideas:

Built-In vs Freestanding: If you’re starting from scratch, a built-in braai is a great investment. It looks polished, lasts longer, and can include features like prep counters and storage. For smaller spaces or renters, a high-quality freestanding braai can still make a statement.

Think About Layout: Ensure there’s enough room around the braai for people to gather without crowding the chef. Consider adding a bar counter or a few stools nearby for a casual vibe.

Add a Fire Pit: For evenings when you’re not braaing, a fire pit creates a cosy atmosphere and doubles as a focal point for your outdoor space.
Lighting is also crucial—install warm, ambient lights to set the mood and task lighting around the braai area for practicality.

Front view of a barbecue grill on an outdoor patio

3. Water-Wise Gardens: Beauty Meets Sustainability

With water conservation being a top priority in South Africa, creating a water-wise garden is not only environmentally responsible but also incredibly rewarding. When we redesigned our garden, I was amazed at how vibrant and lush it became with minimal watering, thanks to indigenous plants and clever landscaping.

Here’s how to design a water-wise garden that complements your home:

Go Indigenous: Indigenous plants like aloes, agapanthus, and Cape daisies are naturally adapted to our climate and require less water. They’re also low maintenance and attract birds and pollinators.

Group Plants by Water Needs: Place plants with similar water requirements together to maximise efficiency when watering.
Invest in Hardscaping: Incorporate stone pathways, gravel, and raised beds to reduce the amount of lawn and minimise water use.

Install a Rainwater Harvesting System: A simple rainwater tank can collect water for irrigation, helping you keep your garden green even during dry spells.
One of my favourite additions to any garden is a small seating area surrounded by tall grasses or succulents. It creates a tranquil retreat where you can relax and reconnect with nature.

Watering beautiful flower bed with can outdoors

4. Seamlessly Connecting Indoors and Outdoors

One of the best aspects of outdoor living is how it enhances your indoor spaces. I always aim to create a seamless connection between the two, making it easy to move from one to the other. Sliding or stacking glass doors are perfect for this, allowing you to open up your home to the outdoors fully.

When designing for a South African home, I love using large overhangs to provide shade while keeping interiors cool. This not only enhances the architecture but also extends the usability of outdoor spaces year-round.

Modern contemporary style small wooden terrace with garden view 3d render

5. Personal Touches to Make It Yours

Finally, don’t forget to add personal touches that reflect your style and personality. Outdoor spaces should feel like an extension of your home’s interior. Whether it’s a statement pot plant, a hammock for lazy afternoons, or even an outdoor art piece, these details make all the difference.

For me, it’s the little things—like the string lights we hung around our veranda or the herb garden next to the braai—that make our outdoor space feel truly ours.

Young  couple painting walls

Embrace Outdoor Living

Designing outdoor spaces for the South African climate is about more than just aesthetics—it’s about creating places where life happens. With thoughtful planning and a focus on functionality, you can transform your veranda, braai area, or garden into a space that brings joy and comfort to your everyday life.

Whether you’re hosting a summer braai, enjoying a quiet morning coffee, or watching the sunset with your family, your outdoor space can be a sanctuary that reflects the beauty of our climate and culture.

So, get inspired, roll up your sleeves, and start designing a space where you’ll create lasting memories. Trust me, there’s nothing more rewarding than enjoying a beautifully designed outdoor area that feels like an extension of your home.