As temps start to rise, we all dream of that perfectly appointed outdoor space, where family can chill and friends tend to linger. But no two warm weather sanctuaries are exactly alike. To help you find a look you’ll love, we’re breaking down six distinct styles and the pieces you’ll need to pull it all together. Rosé at the ready people.
Moroccan Oasis
Chill, worldly, with a touch of exotic glam, this look is perfect for those that live for a good lounge session. Low-slung seating (think a simple cushion on a solid base) with globally-inspired pillows piled high keep comfort front and center. The subtle elegance of a black and white palette, shot through with a touch of cream, recalls the chicest of riads. The addition of a few key elements—woven accents, rustic wood tables, a Moroccan pouf or two—captures the mood without going overboard.
East Coast Polish
If a classic-leaning look that doesn’t skimp on comfort is what you’re after, rattan is definitely in the running. Less fussy than other wicker materials, rattan seating can look very haute Hamptons with some crisp but cozy cushions and a few graphic throw pillows. Uptown touches like elegant glass hurricanes not only look lovely, they cast a magical glow come sundown, and a hanging lantern makes the whole setup feel like a proper room.
Tailored Tropical
Embracing a far-reaching selection of outdoor furniture styles can seem risky, but the brave are rewarded with a look that feels a little bit Bahamas, a little bit Brazil, and all kinds of chic. The curling lines of decorative metal seating mixed with rattan pieces and some inexpensive folding Campaign-style chairs looks cohesive when united by a classic blue and white color scheme. A few oversized palm fronds will finish off this island fantasy.
Mid-Century Mood
The retro-sleek style of mid-century pieces create a striking contrast to the outdoors, which is part of their appeal. Especially well-suited to this look are accents like tables or planters made of concrete, sculptural succulents, and a few primary pops of 1950s color to brighten things up. To keep modern pieces from veering into overly stark (i.e. not comfy looking) territory, throw a few pillows in the mix.
Happy Villa
Eclectic with an offhanded elegance, this look is very “Call Me By Your Name,” with antique caned seating, wicker, and teak coming together to channel the Italian countryside. Block-printed textiles bring just the right amount of laid-back charm, but don’t get bogged down trying to color coordinate your pillows. A super off-handed approach to pattern only ups the haute bohemian ante.
Quintessential Francophile
If your ideal outdoor room is light on blooms and heavy on the boxwood, then you might want to say “oui” to a French-inspired space. Sticking to a limited color palette of black, white, and grey for the decor, with dark metal furniture and zinc planters anchoring the look, deep green hedges and shaped boxwood become the focal point. Adding a small ball topiary here and there brings the open-air salon idea full circle (pun intended).
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Lead Photo by Momoko Fritz, Courtesy of Wendy Labrum Interiors