Sunroom Extensions vs. Alfresco Areas: Which Adds More Living Space?

July 17, 2025

Sunroom Extensions vs. Alfresco Areas: Which Adds More Living Space?

Sunroom extensions and alfrescos are both popular choices for families in Sydney wanting to make the most of outdoor living. Both create versatile spaces for entertaining guests and relaxing, as well as boosting the aesthetic appeal and overall value of your home. However, one option might be more suited to your needs and lifestyle than the other. In this post, we’ll look at the differences between sunrooms and alfresco extensions, and assess which one adds more living space – so you can decide which is right for you.

What Is a Sunroom Extension?

A sunroom extension is a room attached to your house, typically featuring glass walls or large windows, flyscreens, or a combination – and often built by enclosing a patio or deck. Sunrooms are generally designed to let in natural light and views of the outdoors while providing protection from the elements. Sunroom extensions are popular for a number of reasons, including:

Versatility: Besides being a stylish spot for meals and gatherings, sunroom extensions can also be used for a variety of other purposes. Create a home office space and enjoy the afternoon sun filtering in as you work, or use it as a home gym and appreciate the view from your exercise bike – the possibilities are endless.
Energy Efficiency: With large windows or glass walls, your sunroom traps the sun’s heat to warm the space naturally. This gives you a cosy place to curl up with a good book on sunny winter afternoons, without the need for artificial heating.
Protection From Insects: From pesky flies buzzing around your lunch to mosquitoes cutting tranquil summer nights short, outdoor dining in Australia can have its drawbacks. A sunroom lets you enjoy the atmosphere of dining outdoors without uninvited guests.
Easy Installation: A sunroom extension requires less significant structural changes than a conventional room addition, making it easier and more cost-effective to install.
Perfect Indoor Plant Area: The amount of natural light that gets into your sunroom makes it the perfect spot for potted plants or even an indoor garden. Take note of the direction your sunroom faces so that you can position your plants strategically to get the right amount of light.

What Is an Alfresco Area?

An alfresco area is a covered outdoor space attached to the home, often featuring an open-air dining area. It typically sits under the primary roof, although alfresco designs can also feature awnings or a pergola on a deck. The best alfresco builders in Sydney can help you design a space that’s airy and comfortable, and that maximises indoor-outdoor flow. Alfresco extensions offer a wide range of benefits, including:

Fresh Air and Proximity to Outdoors: If you live in a mild climate and want to take advantage of the outdoors, an alfresco extension lets you enjoy fresh air and breezes while sheltering from the sun.
A Multi-Functional Outdoor Space: Stylish outdoor furniture, ambient lighting, and even a sound system can transform your alfresco extension from a simple shelter into the perfect hangout spot.
Great Space for an Outdoor Kitchen: What better way to spend a summer afternoon than cooking a meal out in the fresh air? An alfresco area is a fantastic place for your family and friends to enjoy open-air dining.
Great for Gardens: If you’re an avid gardener, your alfresco area can incorporate planter boxes, hanging plants, and even a vertical garden. It can also be designed around your existing garden, creating a peaceful natural retreat.
Perfect for Pools: Your alfresco space can be designed to seamlessly integrate with your swimming pool area, so your family and friends can enjoy the luxury of having somewhere shaded and comfortable to lounge in between swims.

Which Adds More Living Space: Sunroom or Alfresco?

While both sunroom extensions and alfresco areas create versatile spaces that add value to your home, sunroom extensions generally add more living space. This is due to their wide variety of uses and the fact that they are more protected from the elements, making them more comfortable to use year-round. If you want your sunroom extension to be considered a habitable room and further increase your home’s value, it must meet certain criteria – such as being fully enclosed and having heating, to name a few. However, if your goal is to simply have a comfortable, multi-purpose addition to your home, even a semi-enclosed sunroom extension can be an excellent choice for your lifestyle. Ultimately, the decision between a sunroom or an alfresco extension depends on your lifestyle and how you intend to use the space.

You Might Prefer a Sunroom If: You enjoy the comfort of being indoors with a view of the outdoors, or if you want an additional space to use as a home gym or entertainment area.
You Might Prefer an Alfresco Area If: You love the fresh air and freedom that comes with open-air dining, and want to be nearby to your garden or pool.

Create Your Sunroom Extension or Alfresco Area Today!

Whether you’re dreaming of an airy alfresco or a versatile sunroom extension enhanced by composite timber decking, getting in touch with a reliable building company is the key to creating a space you love. At Austek Home Improvements, our dedicated team will ensure your project exceeds your expectations. We can provide you with sunroom and alfresco extension ideas to help you create the perfect space for entertaining, relaxing, and more. Get in touch with us today for your free quote!