Designing your outdoor space is a lot like planning a great party—it’s all about setting the mood, making people feel comfortable, and creating the right vibe. Whether you’re working with a cozy balcony or a spacious backyard, a little bit of planning can go a long way in transforming your space into a place you’ll love spending time. Here’s how to get started:
1. Know Your Space
No matter the size, your outdoor area can make a big impact with thoughtful design. For patios and balconies, scale down with space-saving pieces like swivel chairs or a compact bistro set. In larger spaces, consider creating zones—a lounge area, a dining area, maybe even an outdoor kitchen. Use planters, patio umbrellas, or fire tables to help define boundaries and bring the space together.
2. Think About Function
Is this space for relaxing? Hosting weekend BBQs? Once you define how you want to use the space, choosing furniture becomes much easier. Want to kick back? Try a sectional or two sofas facing each other with a coffee table in between. Planning to dine outdoors? Even a small table with two chairs on a balcony can feel like your own café. Have a fire table? Choose seating that’s comfy for conversation. Got a pool? Don’t forget chaise lounges for poolside reading and sunbathing.
3. Choose Climate-Appropriate Materials
Your outdoor furniture should be as tough as your local weather. Low-maintenance materials like high-density polyethylene (HDPE) are ideal for wet coastal regions or snowy climates. If you live somewhere hot, teak or thermally modified ash resist heat better than metal chairs. And even in full sun, powder-coated finishes help prevent fading.
4. Set the Right Color Palette
A great place to start is with a base color pulled from your home’s exterior or natural surroundings. Stick with soft, neutral tones for a calming, timeless look. Love bold outdoor color? Explore HDPE and powder-coated finishes or choose from 50+ outdoor fabrics to express your personality.
5. Reflect Your Indoor Style
Your outdoor space shouldn’t feel like an entirely different world. Use similar materials, colors, and silhouettes to create a seamless flow from inside to out. For a more traditional home, think curved shapes, mixed textures, and warm tones. For a modern feel, go for clean lines, compact hues, and sleek accents. The good news? Our trend-forward outdoor furniture pairs beautifully with what you already have.
6. Match or Mix—Go with What You Love
Prefer a matching set for a coordinated look? Or a curated, layered vibe? If you’re into mixing and matching, try repeating key materials like teak, metal, or HDPE to tie everything together visually. Play with contrast by pairing wood with smooth metal, or plush cushions with a stone tabletop for a refined look.
7. Don’t Forget the Finishing Touches
Outdoor décor isn’t just about style—it adds comfort and function too. Rugs help soften the space and define zones. Planters bring in greenery; large ones even offer privacy. Outdoor pillows show off your style, and trays are great for drinks and small bites. And don’t forget lighting—it makes your space inviting long after sunset.
8. Add Entertaining Extras
Bar carts or bar-height tables make serving easy. Storage benches or closed cabinets are perfect for stashing blankets, games, or grilling tools—keeping your space tidy and ready to enjoy. An outdoor kitchen with a built-in cooler makes entertaining effortless, keeping drinks and snacks within easy reach.
9. Use Shade (and Covers) to Your Advantage
Patio umbrellas aren’t just for the dining table—they create comfort over lounge areas, grills, or poolside spots. When your outdoor space isn’t in use, furniture covers help protect your investment from the elements and reduce cleanup time.
