Creating a modern Mediterranean retreat in your backyard is no small feat, but with the right inspiration and materials, it can become a reality. Meet Alhana Friend, who brought her dreamy Mediterranean vision to life in her recent backyard makeover. Her outdoor transformation blended the clean, open design elements of the Mediterranean with the relaxed, tropical vibes of Bali with ModularWalls. As a social media personality known for her lifestyle content, Alhana has a keen eye for design and detail. However, beyond aesthetics, this project was about creating a safe, functional, and stunning outdoor space.
“I was tossing up whether to renovate our house or redo our backyard. Our old backyard wasn’t kid-friendly, and it didn’t look very nice. So, we just thought, let’s make it like a Modern Mediterranean oasis!”
Project goal
The goal for Alhana’s renovation was clear: to create a safer, more user-friendly outdoor space that enhanced alfresco functionality. Additionally, she sought to increase potential future resale value. The need for a safer environment became evident after an incident involving the old, hazardous stairs in the backyard.
Alhana recounts:
“We used to have these ‘death stairs’ that ran all around the back of our alfresco, and one day, one of our little ones fell down them. It was then and there that I said I wanted to redo the backyard. We wanted to make our outdoor space safer, more user friendly, better alfresco functionality and increase resale value.”
Modern Mediterranean inspiration
Using Instagram as a source for design inspiration, Alhana found MajaCanggu, a villa in Bali known for its beautiful white arches and curves.
This aesthetic guided the creation of the outdoor space, emphasising clean lines and organic shapes. Alhana engaged Detailed Landscapes to assist her in creating a space that combined aesthetic appeal with practical functionality.
Alhana’s backyard is now both visually stunning and highly functional – an oasis of beauty and serenity.
“I’m like a big lover of whites and neutrals, and I wanted to bring that to my house and my backyard. I’ve always loved the modern Mediterranean vibe.”
Beyond function and aesthetics, Alhana designed her space with the future in mind. She sought a space that would remain relevant and inviting as her two young children grew.
A premium choice for an elevated space
Initially, Alhana’s concern was that a traditional metal or steel fence would clash with the modern, stylish backyard design. Her landscaper suggested ModularWalls for their premium, monolithic finish. It’s easy to see why ModularWalls are a firm favourite of landscapers and homeowners alike. With ModularWalls, it’s possible to achieve a designer masonry-look wall without the price tag and lengthy construction lead times.
“My biggest concern was having this big arch and such a nice modern backyard and then having an ugly metal fence. My builder suggested ModularWalls and showed me the ModularWalls Instagram page, and they have beautiful content. I was sold! I feel like it just elevates every backyard!”
Achieve a minimalist, modern Mediterranean aesthetic with ModularWalls
ModularWalls offered a sleek solution that ideally complemented the chosen aesthetic. Here, VogueWall® seamlessly blended with the Mediterranean-inspired elements of the backyard.
“ModularWalls has helped us achieve the aesthetic we were after. It tied in with the Mediterranean feel I wanted, and it feels so grand. The space would not look as good as it does without it!”
Not to mention, the bold geometric shapes provided the perfect foil for the organic curves and arches, cleverly installed as a striking focal point.
“My favourite part of the outdoor space would have to be the big arch that sits in front of the ModularWalls VogueWall®. It’s definitely the wow piece!”
Acoustic and visual privacy
Another key benefit of Alhana’s new ModularWalls solution was the significant noise reduction it provided*. The wall effectively reduced noise from the nearby playground, creating a peaceful and quiet outdoor environment.
Alhana shares,
“It wasn’t until the latest school holidays that I realised I hadn’t overheard the school holiday program kids in the next-door playground. It was always so noisy during the day, but I haven’t noticed any noise now we have ModularWalls.”
Additionally, the increased height of the wall improved visual privacy for Alhana and her family. Now, they can enjoy their space without overlooking or being overlooked by neighbouring properties, enhancing a sense of seclusion.
“We used to be able to see into the next–door neighbours’ fence. ModularWalls has provided that height now, so we can’t see in.”
Safety and security for little ones
Alhana designed her outdoor space with her family in mind. In addition to the spacious pool and built-in daybed area, An impressive cubby house from Hide and Seek and a sprawling green lawn ensure hours of fun for the whole family.
ModularWalls’ monolithic structure means the walls are non-climbable, which brings Alhana peace of mind.
“Because I have two little kids, obviously safety is a really big thing. They love to climb everything. The fact that they can’t climb up this fence is a huge positive for me.”
Increasing appeal with ModularWalls
Adding ModularWalls to your property not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also increases privacy, security and acoustic appeal, highly sought after in the property market.
“I think adding ModularWalls to your property definitely can add value, especially if you’re going to resell your home. It just looks better, not to mention the added safety, height and acoustic attenuation. I think if you’re going to spend money on your backyard, you want it to look nice. ModularWalls definitely makes the space look a lot nicer than just using a metal or steel fence.”
Finishing touches
The ability to paint ModularWalls in any colour and integrate electrical wiring for lighting further enhanced its appeal, creating a cohesive look that aligned with Alhana’s vision.
“Another great feature of the modular wall is you’re able to integrate lights into it. So our electrician was able to run cables through the main posts, and we could choose the lights we wanted to run the length of our backyard.”
Alhana’s finishing touches involved careful selection of plants and greenery to complement the Modern Mediterranean design. Low-maintenance landscaping including cacti and snake plants enhance the clean, uncluttered design.
Efficient installation
Despite weather challenges that caused some delays, the ModularWalls installation process was simple and efficient, helping keep the project on track despite the initial delays.
“During the project it rained a lot, and as it pushed back one contractor, it had a ripple effect. Once the rain stopped, I couldn’t believe how quick it was!”
A modern Mediterranean space that demands attention
Overall, the result of Alhana’s backyard renovation exceeded her expectations.
“I couldn’t be happier with the result! So many people comment on it, and I’ve even had friends recently use ModularWalls after seeing it!”
This transformation showcases how a well-considered design, combined with premium materials, can create a backyard oasis that is stunning, safe and practical. Reflecting on the project, Alhana has only one regret:
“Now that our backyard is finished, I have a space that I am so proud of – it’s safer and it looks beautiful. I just have one regret, and that is that I didn’t put ModularWalls running along the back fence and the other side of the backyard! That’s definitely phase two for us.”
Bring your vision to life with ModularWalls
With the right inspiration, design elements, and materials, creating a Modern Mediterranean oasis in your backyard is within your reach. With ModularWalls, create a safe, secure, and private canvas for a dreamy outdoor space that you’ll love for years to come.
* Site and noise source specific
