South Africa is blessed with a wonderful climate and long, warm summer days, so it follows that your outdoor space should be a sanctuary; a place to relax, entertain, and connect with nature and, regardless of whether you have a large backyard, a modest garden or a cosy patio, it should be a place that brings you joy, and where you and your family love to spend time.
So says Yael Geffen, CEO of Lew Geffen Sotheby’s International Realty, who adds that creating a joyful and inviting outdoor living area is about more than just an aesthetic upgrade.
“It’s an opportunity to enhance your overall quality of life and enjoyment of the space you have and, with summer just around the corner, now is the perfect time to spruce up your outdoor areas.
“With a little thoughtful design and minimal effort, every type of outdoor living area can be uplifted and turned into a sanctuary for relaxation and a sense of connection to nature.
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“A well-planned outdoor space also becomes an extension of your home, offering a place for family gatherings, personal retreats after a stressful day and moments of peace.”
Barbara Larney, RE/MAX broker-owner of RE/MAX Wine and Whales in Hermanus, explains how buyers weigh outdoor spaces against interior features when deciding between two similar properties
Outdoor living vs. interior features what really sways buyers?
In today’s fast-paced world, private outdoor living spaces have become increasingly valuable for the calm, privacy, and connection they offer. These are the areas where families relax, entertain guests, and unwind.
Thoughtfully designed courtyards, patios, decks, verandahs, balconies, and rooftop terraces blur the line between indoors and outdoors, creating a seamless flow that enhances daily living. Features such as quality outdoor flooring, pools, garden furniture, and well-planned landscaping further elevate the experience and lifestyle appeal,
On the Whale Coast and other lifestyle-focused areas in South Africa, buyers pay particular attention to these outdoor living spaces. The line between indoors and outdoors is increasingly blurred. The braai area is no longer just an addition; it has become an essential extension of the living space. In Hermanus a well-designed braai room or covered entertainment patio is often viewed with the same importance as a modern kitchen or openplan living area. It reflects lifestyle, climate, and culture.
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While interiors remain the foundation of a property’s value, homes that seamlessly integrate indoor and outdoor living tend to stand out and sell faster. In fact, Hermanus buyers often expect a braai room or adaptable outdoor area as a given, not a luxury. Without it, a home may feel incomplete, no matter how well the interiors are finished.
Shifting priorities: From pools to practicality
Smaller solar-heated pools, water tanks, and creative garden solutions such as vertical or container planting appeal to many buyers. At the same time, a well-designed outdoor entertainment area remains highly desirable, enhancing lifestyle and usability of the home
3. Seller strategy: Balancing interiors with outdoor appeal
"My advice to sellers is to approach the home as a complete experience. Interiors remain the foundation. Buyers expect modern, functional kitchens, bathrooms, and living areas, but outdoor spaces are increasingly a deciding factor, especially on the Whale Coast," says Larney.
Key outdoor upgrades that attract buyers include:
- Braai areas with shelter and built-in features
- Decks or patios with quality furniture
- Indigenous, water-wise gardens
- Minimal paving and lawn for easier upkeep
- Water recycling systems and efficient irrigation
- Vertical planting and container gardens for compact spaces
Even smaller gardens can be highly desirable when designed creatively and functionally. Compact courtyards, patios, balconies, or rooftop terraces can become vibrant outdoor living spaces. The key is creating a seamless flow between inside and outside, so buyers can easily imagine entertaining, relaxing, and living across both zones.
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4. The cost of well-planned landscaping in 2025
In South Africa, the cost of well-planned landscaping varies depending on the scope and complexity of the design:
- Basic landscaping (lawn installation, simple garden beds): R95,000 to R190,000
- Mid-range landscaping (professional design, pathways, lighting): R190,000 to
R760,000 - High-end landscaping (custom features like pools, outdoor kitchens): R760,000 and
above
Daily rates for garden services range from R350 to R700 depending on garden size. Instant lawn typically costs R30 to R60 per square meter. Indigenous and water-wise planting can reduce long-term maintenance costs while enhancing sustainability and appeal, notes Larney.
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