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Outdoor spaces are much more than just a patio or deck. Designers are planning outdoor spaces to be intentional by incorporating defined roles, like cooking, dining, entertainment, or simply relaxing and unwinding.
Keep reading to learn how professionals are designing outdoor spaces to reflect more personality and purpose.
How to Design an Outdoor Space as a True Extension of the Home
Outdoor spaces are no longer seen as purely functional or lacking comfort. Designers are now treating patios and backyards like open-air living rooms, making homes feel bigger and the outdoors more connected. Indoor style carries outside seamlessly through materials, color palettes, and furniture, emphasizing comfort and long-term usability.
Designers now aim for outdoor furniture that promotes comfort and durability. Exterior spaces need to be just as inviting as an indoor lounge area, selecting pieces that go together even if they’re made from different materials.
Outdoor go-to's include powder-coated aluminum, teak, and woven resin wicker, chosen for their ability to be stylish and resistant to outdoor elements.
How to Design an Outdoor Space That Reflects Personal Style
Designers are planning outdoor spaces around personal preferences and style. That’s where mixing materials, textiles, and finishes can create a collected look. Though mismatched, designed spaces look more intentional and elevated.
Outdoor textiles are designed to handle sun, moisture, and mildew, making solution-dyed fabrics a popular choice. These can be incorporated through cushions, pillows, outdoor rugs, and even curtains, making it easy to add color and texture to outdoor spaces without sacrificing durability.
From there, finishing touches are what set the tone and complete the look of the space. Accent furniture, lighting, and accessories help create the overall vibe, anything from calm and relaxing to fun and entertaining.
Key Design Trends Shaping Outdoor Spaces
Each year brings fresh ideas for outdoor spaces. While these trends are popular right now, they can also be adapted to create spaces that feel timeless. Incorporate these key elements into your outdoor space designs to stay both modern and intentional:
- Sculptural outdoor furniture
- Layered lighting
- Organic pieces
- Durable materials
Sculptural Outdoor Furniture
Outdoor furniture is designed to feel as expressive as indoor pieces, with sculptural silhouettes becoming a defining trend. Instead of traditional boxy patio sets, designers are embracing curved profiles, organic shapes, and statement forms that make furniture the focal point. The key is choosing pieces with eye-catching shapes that add soft lines to patios and decks to create a more relaxed environment.
Layered Lighting
Thoughtful outdoor spaces rely on more than a single overhead light. Patios and decks are incorporating layered lighting that balances ambiance and functionality. By combining multiple light sources, designers can highlight key areas and make any outdoor space more usable after dark. The multiple layers create a warm, inviting atmosphere that feels just as put-together as interior lighting design.
Organic Pieces
Outdoor spaces are using a more natural aesthetic with decor that highlights organic materials, earthy tones, and tactile textures. Designers are gravitating towards elements like stone, wood, and woven textures to incorporate nature into outdoor spaces. These natural elements bring warmth and depth by connecting the space to its surroundings.
Durable Materials
Designers are creating outdoor spaces that offer the same level of comfort and sophistication as interior spaces, bringing together decor that is stylish and built to last. Outdoor pieces are now focused on luxury and weather-resistant materials, ensuring they can withstand the elements and seasonal changes without compromising on design.
Plan Outdoor Space Designs with Uttermost Wholesale Furniture & Decor
Designing an outdoor space now combines function, comfort, and personal style, going far beyond the traditional patios. The outdoors can be much more than folding chairs and patio umbrellas. The more intentional the setup, the more they’ll be used. It’s all about designing the space around the needs it’s meant to serve.
Explore Uttermost’s outdoor collection to inspire your next exterior space.