TWO TRENDS TO DESIGN STYLISH OUTDOOR COMFORT
Tap into summer’s hottest decor influences by decorating outside as you would indoors and creating a travel-inspired theme
It’s safe to say that summer weather is long overdue this year.
I’ve never been a particularly outdoorsy type, but this year
I’m anticipating summer so that I can enjoy another aspect of being at home: my terraces, which, come summer, become extensions of my living space. As with any room, decorating your outdoor space should reflect both your style and how you want to use the space, whether it be for lounging or dining. And, of course, there are summer trends and styles to consider.
I love this summer’s two biggest influences on outdoor decor trends: decorating outside as you would indoors and creating a travel-inspired theme. Here’s what to look for and how to use these trends to create your own summertime oasis.
TAKE ME AWAY
Travel plans might have shrunk to local trips this spring and summer, but that doesn’t mean you can’t embrace getaway dreams right in your own backyard.
Look for outdoor accessories to create the feeling of your favourite getaway destination, whether it be dining alfresco in Italy (look for high quality indoor/outdoor melamine dishes with Capri-tile and lemon motifs starting from $7 at Bed Bath & Beyond), drinks in Morocco (check out the beautiful terrazzo planters at CB2) or high tea in London (shop for ice-brew teas from Davidstea to keep cool and stay hydrated while on the patio).
All of these, plus themed rugs, hurricane lanterns and placemats are easy ways to dress up the terrace and evoke some style memories.
Select items with a particular theme in mind or choose accessories in one colour (think turquoise for the Greek isles or lavender for Provence) to evoke memories of your favourite summer destination.
INDOOR COMFORTS
Over the past few months, the sofa — whether it’s our home base for lounging with family or lying down to read and relax — has never been more of a destination. Why not enjoy the same level of comfort outdoors as we do inside our homes? Many furniture retailers are offering up outdoor upholstered furnishings inspired by the look of on-trend oversize indoor sofas.
New from Montauk Sofa is their outdoor collection that looks as comfy and grand as the indoor beauties they’re known for. The giant custom Lewis Outdoor sofa, starting at $9,000, is a showstopper for large outdoor spaces, while Urban Barn’s ready-made Cabana Chair and Ottoman, for under $500, suits most budgets. Both offer ultra-comfort in the great outdoors and would look at home in the chicest interiors.
Want to up the look and comfort level of your existing outdoor patio furniture? Consider a new slipcover made from outdoor decorator fabrics and wrap your existing cushions with thicker foam for extra sink-into depth.
SEE, HEAR
Today’s hottest outdoor decor trends — indoor comfort and travel-themed settings — are easy with these stylish tips that play on the senses.
Sound: Create ambience by playing your favourite travel-inspired soundtracks on Bluetooth speakers.
Lighting: Want to create magic outdoors at night? Hang hurricane lanterns holding Led-safe candles from branches to create a magically lit outdoor room.
Touch: Get cosy. Bring synthetic throws and pillows outside for special occasions to add extra comfort to your seating areas.
Do you have a decor dilemma or want to give feedback? You can email Karl at Karl.lohnes@tva.ca. Karl Lohnes has worked as a home decor expert and product designer for 25 years.