Out is in when it comes to making the most of your living space. No longer a single-season indulgence, outdoor furnishings are incorporating new fabrics and materials that allow them to rival indoor comfort and style. “The significant trend is a desire to be more connected to nature, to be outside, and now we have the technically sophisticated materials that can support that need,” says Shari Markbreiter, an allied member of the American Society of Interior Designers and partner at MH Studio LLC in New York.
The trend is also a matter of economics. Creating an “outdoor room” allows you to add more square footage to your living space with minimal investment, notes Jackie Hirschhaut, vice president of the American Home Furnishings Alliance in High Point, N.C.
Start from within. Whether you live in a warm or cool climate, the transition outdoors begins inside. “Make sure [the view to] the outdoor space is unobstructed,” says Markbreiter. She suggests incorporating large-paned windows or French doors where possible. An even simpler solution is to keep window treatments minimal, which helps open up space and draw attention outward.
Regarding style, Hirschhaut suggests that you look at the design elements you’re most pleased with indoors, and incorporate the same style and details outside. “If your favorite pieces inside are more traditional, then look for more traditional pieces to include in your outdoor space,” she says.
Patio plush. Outdoor furniture is nothing new, but there are more options than ever for luxe upholstery and sophisticated fabrics. “People want plush, deep seating for relaxing outside,” says Hirschhaut. Manufacturer Tropitone is happy to comply: its swivel-action rocking chairs offer melt-into-your-seat cushiness. prices vary; tropitone.com
Sunblock for sofas. Fabrics also have evolved, going high-tech to help extend the season. “It used to be, after Labor Day, the furniture went in, “says Markbreiter. Materials are more weatherproof and resilient now. Perennials Outdoor Fabrics offers UV-resistant fabrics that don’t sacrifice chic style for durability. Prices vary, see Web site for details and retail outlets; perennialsfabrics.com
Courtyard cozy. To extend the season even more, Markbreiter suggests investing in a fire pit. “Even on a crisp, cold night, everyone bundles up and mingles around the fire pit,” she says. LaCosta Fire Pit with Burning Glass, FirePitShop.com. $2,999.99; firepitshop.com
— Kate Grip Denon
