10 Inspiring Display Home Backyard And Landscaping Ideas

Your backyard is more than just an outdoor space - it’s an extension of your home where you can relax, entertain and connect with nature. Our display homes in Melbourne and beyond showcase innovative landscaping and gardening ideas that elevate the functionality and beauty of outdoor living areas. From lush garden designs to alfresco outdoor dining ideas to help you create more spaces for entertaining, here are 10 backyard landscaping ideas inspired by our display homes to transform the outdoor space of your home build.

1. Create an Outdoor Space Perfect for Entertaining by Incorporating Alfresco Dining

Alfresco dining areas are a hallmark of display home backyards, offering a seamless indoor-outdoor living blend. These perfect outdoor spaces are designed for entertaining and often feature kitchens, dining tables, and sometimes even a pergola extended from the alfresco for further shading. Consider the functionality of your outdoor area and what you'd like to achieve for your space. Design trends to consider for your outdoor seating area: 

• Add a built-in BBQ or outdoor cooking station.
• Incorporate weatherproof outdoor furniture to ensure year-round usability.
• Use pavers or timber decking to define the dining area or create an additional courtyard garden.
• Create a cohesive entertainment zone by continuing your flooring from inside the home into your outdoor area. 

2. Lush Green Gardens and Popular Landscaping Ideas

Display homes often feature meticulously designed front yard landscaping, as well as the perfect outdoor living spaces that add life and vibrancy to your new modern home. These designs mix native plants with seasonal blooms to create beautiful landscaping that is both dynamic and low-maintenance. To achieve the display home look, ensure your outdoor area:

• Incorporates a mix of garden beds, hedges, and vertical gardens to create depth.
• Use native plants like wattle or kangaroo paw for a sustainable garden design.
• Add a Japanese maple or wisteria as a stunning focal point.

3. Water Features for Tranquillity

A water feature can elevate the tranquillity and aesthetic appeal of your backyard. Display homes use water elements like fountains or ponds to create a beautiful space and serene environment. When building new, make your property a place where you can enjoy your outdoor zone year-round.  

• Position a water feature near a seating area for relaxation.
• Opt for a sleek, modern design or a natural rock-style fountain.
• Include ambient lighting to highlight the water feature at night.

4. Dream Outdoor Fireplaces

Outdoor fireplaces or fire pits are perfect for creating a cosy atmosphere. They add warmth during cooler months and serve as a natural gathering point for family and friends. Discover eight more hardscaping ideas to elevate your outdoor space. Incorporating an outdoor fireplace when you're building a new home is a popular way for home owners to make the most of every space in their backyard. 

• Use stone or brick materials for a rustic look.
• Surround the fireplace with comfortable outdoor seating.
• Consider a fire pit with a built-in cooking option for dual functionality.

5. Vertical Gardens - Popular in Small Garden Designs. 

Vertical gardens offer a practical and stylish solution for homes with limited space. These gardens are both functional and decorative, perfect for urban backyards and rooftop gardens. 

• Use a mix of herbs, flowers, and succulents to create a diverse vertical garden.
• Install planters or wall-mounted garden beds to maximise space.
• Add an irrigation system for hassle-free maintenance.

6. Formal Gardens

Formal gardens add elegance and structure to new home landscaping. Defined pathways, manicured hedges, and symmetrical layouts create a timeless appeal. Explore our landscaping guide for more ideas when creating your dream home garden.

• Use stone or gravel pathways to guide you through the garden.
• Include box hedges or topiary for a polished look.
• Add water fountains or sculptures as central features.

7. Outdoor Entertaining Areas

Outdoor entertaining areas go beyond alfresco dining, incorporating lounges, bars, and multipurpose spaces. These designs are perfect for hosting guests or simply relaxing with family.

• Include a weatherproof lounge set or outdoor bean bags.
• Install outdoor lighting, such as fairy lights or sconces, for ambience.
• Add a bar area with stools for a complete entertaining setup

8. Backyard Retreats and Swimming Pools

Create a private oasis with secluded seating areas surrounded by greenery. Display homes often showcase hidden retreats that feel like an escape from daily life. Some of our past display homes have showcased premium landscaping and swimming pools to help home owners visualise the space in their new backyard. Most volume home builders don't include swimming pool design as part of their service, but if you'd like to include a pool it's wise to speak to a landscape architect before your construction commences to ensure your home design includes provisions for the new pool. 

• Use hedges, trellises, or pergolas to create privacy.
• Incorporate a hammock, daybed, or swinging chair for comfort.
• Add soft lighting and water features for a calming atmosphere.
• Speak with a qualified landscape design manager if you are considering adding a swimming pool to your new home. 

9. Herb and Kitchen Gardens

Herb gardens combine practicality with charm, offering fresh produce just steps from your kitchen. Display homes often feature raised garden beds or planter boxes for easy access.

• Use raised beds to grow herbs like basil, parsley, and thyme.
• Incorporate a mix of edible flowers and vegetables for variety.
• Position the garden near your outdoor kitchen for convenience.

10. Multi-Level Landscaping

When designing your dream garden, consider adding multi-level landscaping to depth and dimension - making even small spaces feel expansive. Terraces, raised flower beds and tiered patios are common features.

• Use retaining walls to create distinct seating, dining, and garden levels.
• Incorporate lighting on steps or edges for safety and style.
• Add contrasting materials like stone, timber, and gravel to define each level.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are display home backyards?

Display home backyards showcase innovative designs that maximise outdoor living spaces. These include alfresco dining areas, lush gardens and features like outdoor fireplaces or vertical gardens, all tailored to create a beautiful outdoor oasis.

How can I incorporate display home landscaping into my own backyard?

Start by identifying the elements you love, such as a formal garden, outdoor entertaining area, or herb garden. Carlisle Homes' display homes in Melbourne offer landscaping ideas that can be adapted to your space, whether it’s a small courtyard or a sprawling backyard. 

What’s trending in display home landscaping in Melbourne?

In Melbourne, popular trends include incorporating native plants for sustainable design, using vertical gardens for compact spaces, and creating multi-functional outdoor areas with fire pits and water features. See more ideas for your alfresco and backyard space in our Carlisle inspiration gallery. 

What are the benefits of visiting display homes for backyard inspiration?

Display homes showcase fully realised backyard and landscape designs, providing practical garden ideas and visual inspiration. You can explore various styles, from formal gardens to modern alfresco spaces, and find ideas tailored to your needs and lifestyle. If you can't get to a display in person, our virtual home tours allow you to explore our home designs and backyard spaces from the comfort of your own home.

Find more display home design ideas with Carlisle Homes

Transform your backyard into a stunning outdoor space inspired by the latest display home landscaping ideas. Whether it’s a functional herb garden or a luxurious alfresco area, these designs blend practicality with style to create the perfect retreat.

Visit a Carlisle Homes display home to explore these ideas firsthand. We can include your garden design ideas in your dream home.