Oven: JA80 Mushroom Tiled
Customer: Ian Trend
Location: Victoria
Landscape design: Ben Trend www.instagram.com/bentrenddesign
Concrete work: Zambelis Concrete Artistry www.instagram.com/zambelisconcreteartistry
Media content: Vic Build Media www.instagram.com/vicbuildmedia
Designing Backyards with Purpose: A Conversation with Landscape Designer Ben Trend
When it comes to creating a beautiful and functional backyard, Landscape Designer Ben Trend believes it all comes down to one key factor: how the family will use the space. In a recent chat about his father Ian’s backyard and pizza oven installation, Ben shared his insights into design choices, trends, and what homeowners should consider when planning their own outdoor area.
Designing Around Lifestyle
Ben’s design philosophy begins with the client’s needs. “It always comes back to what the client needs and how they use the space—what the family really wants,” he explains. For many, outdoor entertaining is the priority. A well-placed pizza oven doesn’t just cook food; it becomes a centrepiece for social connection.
With Ian’s backyard, functionality and aesthetics worked hand in hand. The pizza oven was positioned to allow the cook to stay part of the action, interacting with guests while preparing meals. A bench seat was also incorporated into the design, giving the cook a spot to rest or providing visitors a place to sit and chat nearby.
Pizza Ovens vs BBQs
While the trusty BBQ remains a backyard staple, Ben has noticed a significant rise in pizza oven installations—especially since COVID, when many families focused on enhancing their homes and outdoor spaces. Social media has played a role too, showcasing just how versatile pizza ovens can be, from wood-fired pizzas to roasts, breads, and even desserts.
“BBQs are still popular,” Ben says, “but pizza ovens add another dimension. They give people the ability to cook a wider variety of food.”
Choosing the Right Oven
Ben has worked with different oven types. He stresses the importance of choosing an oven—or BBQ—it must suit the individual space and lifestyle.
Working with a Designer
As a sole trader in landscape design, Ben provides tailored plans for clients and can recommend trusted contractors to carry out the work. His advice for anyone considering an outdoor upgrade is simple: don’t wait too long to speak with a designer.
“If you’re not sure if you’re ready to undertake a landscape project, get in touch early. Then you’ll have the information you need when the time is right. Waiting too long can cause unnecessary delays.”
Ian’s experience with pizza ovens
Inspired by a previous oven he enjoyed at his last home, Ian found the curing process straightforward and easy to follow after purchasing a JA80 Tiled Mushroom Pizza Oven from Jalando. So far he has cooked pizza and bread, with plans to experiment with roasts and slow-cooked meals using residual heat. Working with his son Ben, to design the outdoor space was a great process. “We work together well, and he knew exactly what we wanted.” Ben, helped design the alfresco space around the oven, creating a functional and inviting outdoor area.
Key Points to Consider Before You Start
Ben suggests the following key areas to focus on before you get started on your outdoor design.
Bringing It All Together
Whether it’s a BBQ, a pizza oven, or both, the key is designing a backyard that balances practicality with visual appeal. With the right planning, your outdoor space can become an extension of your home—a place to cook, entertain, and create lasting memories.
Landscape design: Ben Trend www.instagram.com/bentrenddesign
Concrete work: Zambelis Concrete Artistry www.instagram.com/zambelisconcreteartistry
Media content: Vic Build Media www.instagram.com/vicbuildmedia
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