RAIN OR SHINE

Create a seamless flow from your outdoor areas and the interior by crafting a holistic, inspiring living space that invites you to reconnect with nature

These weather-resistant furniture can look as chic indoors or outdoors, while giving your interior a touch of that effortless coastal vibe. Plus, we share nifty tips on how you can maximise the use of your balcony and outdoor areas

Life in the city may be fastpaced, but even in the concrete jungle, there is still one connection we always seek—to be in touch with nature. A great way to enable this is through bringing elements of the outdoors into your home and maximising the use of your outdoor space. “In terms of floor area ratio, balconies in relation to living areas in apartments are getting bigger,” observes Kelvin Gan, design director of KGID. He advises designing these areas as an extension of the living room—a balcony can be transformed into an indooroutdoor dining area, with the help of screens or blinds that can be lowered when needed. Robin Tan, principal architect of Wallflower Architecture + Design, agrees that such spaces can still be made functional even in the context of humid weather. “Indoor-outdoor spaces should have good cross-ventilation, as well as the option to be enclosed when needed, while a comfortable outdoor space is protected from intense direct sunlight and torrential rain,” he says. Other details to consider include roof eaves for shelter and a ceiling fan to help keep your balcony or terrace area breezy. Consider also longevity and maintenance. “Generally, aluminium and homogeneous tiles for flooring perform well,” says Tan. “Select quality furniture pieces that can withstand outdoor conditions.”

A well-considered spatial flow from the interior to the exterior can improve your use of an outdoor space. “Raise the flooring height of the outdoor area to be level with the living room,” says Gan. “Raised flooring or decking also helps to conceal electrical wiring for outdoor lighting and other features.” Not only does this blur the indoor-outdoor boundaries for a more seamless look, it accommodates more guests when you entertain. Create a beautiful space that celebrates the great outdoors with these inspiring collections: GARDEN PARTY Named after the vibrant Parisian neighbourhood where its designers Ronan and Erwan Bouroullec are based, the Belleville dining range from Vitra is the epitome of chic utilitarianism. Modelled after classic bistro furniture, the table has cast aluminium legs with a powdercoated finish, while the chair’s plastic structural frame and seat add to its fuss-free aesthetic.

STRUCTURED BEAUTY Kick back in style with the Cassina 522 Tokyo chaise longue. It features a delicate yet sturdy solid wood frame that integrates 12 curved strips connected by satin brass studs. Topped with a mattress with water-draining, stain- and mouldresistant upholstery, it’s available in different colours and looks great both indoors and outdoors.

“INDOOR-OUTDOOR SPACES SHOULD HAVE GOOD CROSS-VENTILATION, AS WELL AS THE OPTION TO BE ENCLOSED WHEN NEEDED”

DO THE TWIST The Tosca collection from Tribu will add intriguing texture to your design scheme. Comprising foam mousse encased in knitted neutraltone textiles, the braided detailing is weather-resistant and soft to the touch. Mix and match within the range of various seating options, which include a daybed, lounger, sofas and chairs as well as tables for a cohesive and elegant space.

CULINARY COMPANION Entertain in style by the pool with the Kettal Outdoor Kitchen. Made of aluminium, it conveys functional simplicity with its sliding Ceppo di Gré stone worktop panels and efficient use of space. Available in 30 colours, it is fitted with a ceramic hob, plumbing and electricity connections; it can also accommodate a fridge or wine cabinet. A matching trolley serves as a support table and storage.

TRAVEL THE WORLD Designed by famed architect and industrial designer Patricia Urquiola, the Garden Layers outdoor range from Gan was inspired by the designer’s trips to India. The collection comprises rugs, mats, roll pillows, cushions, Indian beds and side tables, which can be arranged in numerous ways; it also features geometric motifs and fringing.