Lakeside Lark
A lighthearted blend of perky colours and carefree patterns brings joie de vivre and indoor livability to the outdoor spaces of one family’s weekend getaway.
While many of us are looking for answers when it comes to outdoor decorating, designer Sabrina Albanese is looking to questions. She says, “Ask how the space will be used. Is it for gardening? Lounging? Entertaining? Let the answers determine what you have room for, then choose furnishings you will actually enjoy.” That’s exactly what she did for the Toronto family who owns this retreat in Innisfil, Ont. Now their terrace and two balconies are stylish spots for lakeside dining, reading and soaking up the sun.
Orange Zest
Designer Sabrina Albanese is a proponent of using colour in outdoor decor. “Be inspired by a colour you love!” she says. “The terrace’s bright orange umbrella is fabulous and fun.” The table and chairs don’t match, but are from the same collection so have a cohesive vibe. “They’re very Palm Beach-chic and I like how they contrast the home’s contemporary architecture.” The adjacent area showcases ample seating options, another of Sabrina’s musts. “An extra-long sofa is great for a family and you can never have enough small stools! They’re easy to move and offer flexibility for use as seats or side tables.” Striped Sunbrella fabric is a nautical backdrop to tropical leafy cushions.
DESIGN, Sabrina Albanese Design. Flamenco UMBRELLA, The Santa Barbara Umbrella Company. Faux wicker and rattan Celerie Kemble Collection OUTDOOR
FURNITURE, Lane Venture. Rope SIDE TABLE, Palacek. Palm Leaf CUSHIONS,
Peter Dunham Textiles.
Floor Show
A rug demarcates the seating area on the top balcony, and more. “It provides warmth and texture, so there’s more of a relaxed feeling, as this space is private and used mostly for family gatherings,” says Sabrina. The fresh blue palette works seamlessly with the colour of the lake on a sunny day and was inspired by the getaway’s chinoiserie-style guest room. Sabrina says, “It’s always nice to bring decor from inside, out.”
Made in the Shade
Sabrina believes shady spots are mandatory. She fashioned one with whimsy on the upper balcony. “The scalloped-canopy loveseat does the trick,” she says. “It’s not only pretty, but also easily removable and washable.” The small-scale bistro table – note the sparky tangerine base – is complemented by cute statement seats with billowed bottoms that mimic skirted chairs.
BISTRO TABLE, Fast Italia. GARDEN
STOOL, Serena and Lily. Custom TOSS CUSHION FABRIC, Schumacher. Miles Redd RUG, Patterson Flynn Martin.
“Outdoor furniture should be just as special and as interesting as indoor furniture.”