What to know before you choose outdoor furniture
Take it outside. Outdoor furniture pieces turn patios, porches, and balconies into lounge-worthy hangouts. They are made to weather the elements (literally) while still serving up major style.
Whether you're lounging with a book, dining under the stars, or just soaking up some vitamin D, good outdoor furniture makes the experience feel seamless. Look for durable materials like teak, powder-coated aluminum, and performance fabrics like Sunbrella that can handle sun, rain, and everything in between.
Modular sofas, stackable chairs, and multi-use tables keep things flexible. And don’t forget the extras: outdoor rugs, planters, and string lights complete the setup.
How do you select a color palette for outdoor outdoor furniture?
Choosing the right color palette for your outdoor is an exciting (and fun!) process. Incorporating color (or the lack thereof) into a space will dramatically influence the mood and aesthetic. While it may be tempting to hit up your local hardware store to buy a gallon (or two or three) of paint, and go to town, the planning process is an important step. No one wants to repaint a room once the furniture is in. So, here’s the best way to think about incorporating color into your space:
First, set the mood: Before deciding on your color palette, think about the mood or atmosphere you want to create in your outdoor. Yearning for a calm and serene environment? Or perhaps a vibrant burst of energy? Different colors evoke different emotions, so choose hues that align with the desired mood or vibe of the room. Warm-toned colors (reds, oranges, yellows, and pinks) can make a space feel warm, inviting, and cozy. Cool-toned colors (greens, blues, purples, grays, and most whites) can make a room feel grounded, calming, and clean. But, using too many warm colors can make a room feel closed off, and too many cool tones in one room can make a space feel cold and unwelcoming. Neutral colors (blacks, whites, and browns) add a sense of sophistication and professionalism to a space.
Then, choose a color scheme: Now for the fun part! Once you’ve selected the mood, you can start to build your color palette. Take into account existing furniture and decor elements. Choose colors that complement or skillfully contrast your furnishings to create a cohesive look. A handy tip to a cohesive color story? Use the 60-30-10 rule as your guide. The dominant color (60%) sets the tone, the secondary color (30%) adds depth, and the accent color (10%) brings a pop of interest. Your dominant color in your color palette may be the color you choose to paint your walls or the color of a large area rug. Your secondary color may be used for upholstery or statement furniture. And for that final touch, the accent color brings a spark and is usually found in artworks, cushions, or decorative pieces. If you’re going for a monochromatic color scheme, consider the 60-30-10 rule in terms of shades of color.
Finally, find balance and contrast: Once you’re ready to start applying color in the outdoor design with paint or decorative touches, achieving the right balance between colors in your color palette is crucial. Consider the visual weight of each color and distribute them evenly throughout the space. Neutral colors are often paired with brighter accent colors to contrast a space. Pairing complementary colors (opposites on the color wheel) or juxtaposing shades of light and dark can enrich your design with depth and complexity.
While some colors are more popular than others for certain rooms or design styles, pick a color palette that feels right to you. Interior design is all about self expression. You do you. Trust your instincts, and don't be afraid to express your unique style. Want more interior design color tips? Check out our free online interior design course on Color Theory.
Understanding the color wheel: white
Technically, white is not a color (you can thank science for that). But in design, the bazillion (yes, we counted) shades of white paint swatches may beg to differ. White is considered a neutral color, as it can easily blend with other colors and create a versatile backdrop for various design styles. In interior design, white is commonly used to create a sense of spaciousness and brightness, making a room feel open and airy. It can also serve as a canvas for showcasing other colors or elements in a space.
White is often associated with cleanliness, simplicity, and a sense of calmness. It is a popular color choice for minimalist and contemporary designs, as it allows for a clean and uncluttered aesthetic. Other neutrals such as gray, beige, and taupe create a sophisticated and timeless look when paired with white. These subdued hues provide a sense of calm and balance, allowing white to shine as the focal point. For some white-washed inspiration for your outdoor, check out one of our favorite designer Leanne Ford’s “light, bright, and airy” aesthetic.
There are different shades and undertones of white which can create different effects in a room. Warm whites read more pink, yellow, or orange, while cool whites read more blue or green. When working with white and selecting your white paint swatch, consider the lighting and other elements in your space to achieve the desired ambiance in your outdoor. The beauty of white is its ability to reflect light, making spaces feel airy and bright. Maximize natural light with sheer curtains or strategically placed mirrors. In the evenings, soft, warm artificial lighting can enhance the cozy, enveloping feel of a white room.
How do you pick a design style for a white outdoor outdoor furniture makeover?
Picking an interior design style for your outdoor is a personal and immersive journey. It starts with introspection and an exploration of your aesthetic preferences, daily habits, and the overall ambiance you wish to create. We recommend the outdoor style match nicely with the rest of your house. Consider the architecture of your home, the flow of natural light, and how the space is used to ensure the design style not only looks appealing but also serves your needs effectively. The goal is to create a space that feels inviting, comfortable, and uniquely “you”.
There is no right or wrong way to define your style. Start by gathering ideas and inspiration. Identify what colors, moods, and materials you are drawn to. Are you drawn to the clean lines of modern design? The warmth of rustic charm? The rich textures of bohemian flair? Or the sleek functionality of minimalism? Your chosen style should resonate with your personality and make your space feel like a true extension of yourself.
There are dozens of design styles. One style may speak to you the most and you’ll be ready to go all in (do it!). If not, mixing elements from different styles can yield a unique, eclectic look that’s distinctly yours. Need some help defining your style? We created our own design style quiz to help you learn more about what you gravitate towards in design. The result is like the perfect blend of your personality and home. Take the quiz and your Spoak Sign be your inspiration.
Once you know the design style you want to achieve for your outdoor makeover, the fun begins! You can start planning out your color scheme and decor ideas.
What’s the best way to design and decorate a white outdoor?
Outdoor spaces offer a unique opportunity to blend the comfort of indoor living with the beauty of nature. Whether you're designing a cozy patio, a vibrant garden, or a functional outdoor kitchen, the design of your outdoor space is key to creating an environment where relaxation and entertainment can flourish side by side (and mother nature can shine!).
Here's how to approach your outdoor makeover for a seamless transition from indoors to out:
- Zoning: Define distinct areas for different activities, such as dining, lounging, and gardening. Consider the flow between these zones to encourage easy movement and interaction.
- Furniture Selection: Choose pieces that not only complement your aesthetic but are also durable and suited for outdoor conditions. Consider the scale of the furniture in relation to the space to avoid overcrowding or underutilization.
- Natural Elements: Integrate your layout with the existing landscape. Use the contours of your garden, the direction of sunlight, and natural wind patterns to inform the placement of furniture and features.
- Privacy and Comfort: Incorporate elements that enhance privacy and comfort, such as strategic plantings, pergolas, or screens. These can also add texture and color to your outdoor space.
- Lighting: Plan for a mix of functional and ambient lighting to extend the usability of your outdoor space into the evening. Solar-powered lights, lanterns, and LED strips can illuminate paths and highlight key features without overwhelming the natural night-time setting.
By carefully considering these elements, you can create an outdoor design that not only extends your living space but also enhances your connection to the outdoors, making every moment spent outside a rejuvenating experience. If you need an extra hand in your design process, check out our step-by-step guide on How To Design a Room.