We spend more time outdoors than almost anyone else in Australia. But for a lot of homeowners, the outdoor area is the most underutilised part of their property: a patch of tired concrete, an old timber deck that's seen better days, or simply nothing at all.
In 2026, that's changing fast. Outdoor living upgrades are among the most requested renovations on our current project list. Here's everything you need to know before you start.
Deck vs Patio vs Alfresco — What's the Difference?
These words get used interchangeably, but they mean different things. The right choice depends on your home, your yard, and how you want to live.
Most of our clients combine two or three of these — for example, a paved alfresco dining area under a pergola, with a timber deck extending out toward the pool.
What Does It Cost?
Costs vary significantly depending on materials, size, and complexity. Here's a general guide for the Gold Coast in 2026:
| Project Type | Typical Cost Range | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Timber deck (hardwood/merbau) | $12,000 – $28,000 | Depends on size, height, balustrade spec |
| Composite deck (Trex or similar) | $16,000 – $35,000 | Lower maintenance, higher upfront cost |
| Paved patio (porcelain or stone) | $8,000 – $22,000 | Size, material, and drainage complexity |
| Pergola / alfresco (open rafter) | $15,000 – $35,000 | Structure only, no roof |
| Roofed alfresco (Colorbond) | $22,000 – $55,000 | Includes roof, lighting, fans |
| Louvre pergola system | $28,000 – $70,000+ | Premium adjustable roof — most popular upgrade |
| Full outdoor kitchen + BBQ | $15,000 – $45,000 | Add-on to alfresco structure |
Do You Need Council Approval?
This is the question we get asked most, and the answer depends on what you're building.
- Decks under 1m in height covering less than 10m²
- Patios at ground level with no roof structure
- Some pergola structures depending on size
- Any structure over 1m above natural ground level
- Roofed structures over certain sizes
- Structures attached to the main building
- Anything near a boundary (setback requirements)
- Pool surrounds and barriers
Have your approvals finalised before you contact a builder. A private building certifier can tell you what your project needs, because Gold Coast City Council rules vary depending on your lot size, zoning, and proximity to waterways. Sort this out first, not halfway through.
What's Worth the Investment?
"The Queensland lifestyle is only as good as the outdoor space that supports it."
What's Most Popular Right Now
Based on our current project list, here's what Gold Coast homeowners are building:
How Long Does It Take?
The approval process — if required — takes 4–8 weeks, and it needs to be finalised before you contact a builder. This is the phase most homeowners underestimate, so start your approvals well before you want the project finished.
Getting Started
The best outdoor living projects start with a clear brief: how do you actually want to use the space? Quiet morning coffee, large family gatherings, kids playing while you cook, evening entertaining? The answer shapes everything — the layout, the roof type, the materials, and the features worth including.
Free on-site consultation for your outdoor living project
We'll walk your space with you, understand how you live, and put together a realistic scope and estimate.
Book your free consultationFrequently Asked Questions
How much does a deck cost on the Gold Coast?
As a general 2026 guide, a hardwood or merbau timber deck on the Gold Coast typically costs $12,000 to $28,000, and a composite deck $16,000 to $35,000. Size, height, balustrade and access drive the final price.
Do I need council approval for a deck or patio on the Gold Coast?
Decks under 1 metre high and under 10 square metres, and unroofed ground-level patios, are generally exempt. Structures over 1 metre high, larger roofed structures, anything attached to the house or near a boundary, and pool surrounds generally need approval. A private building certifier can confirm what you need, and any approvals should be finalised before you contact a builder.
How long does an alfresco or patio take to build?
A standard alfresco pergola with paving usually takes 6 to 10 weeks from demolition to handover. Complex projects with a louvre roof, outdoor kitchen, pool surround or deck take around 10 to 16 weeks. If approval is required, allow another 4 to 8 weeks, and have it finalised before you contact a builder.
Is a covered alfresco better than an open deck?
For most Gold Coast homes, yes. A covered alfresco with ceiling fans is usable all year, while an uncovered deck is hard to enjoy in summer sun and heavy rain. If the budget forces a choice, a more modest covered area usually gets far more use than a larger open deck.
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