4 Ways to Get Great Style in the Great Outdoors

What is the hottest trend in home décor?  Forget the house – go outside!  The overall trend, of course, is towards making your home more enjoyable, functional, and beautiful, and part of that involves increasing usable space and thinking beyond our interior walls.  Global Industry Analysts estimates that by 2015, spending for outdoor furniture will rise to $4.4 billion.  This is great news for consumers because, as interest in outdoor décor rises, so, too will the options that we see on the market.  Whether you have acres of back lawn to work with or a tiny balcony, you can make the most of it with the best outdoor furniture.

Outdoor furniture, including chaise lounges, tables, chairs, outdoor metal bar stools, and even sectional sofas, are available in a tremendous range of styles, and trends are all over the spectrum.  Beautiful neutral tones, such as browns, beiges, and greens, are very popular, perhaps because they continue the natural theme created by the great outdoors.  But daring homeowners are getting a bit more daring and allowing reds, oranges, and rusts popping up like wildflowers.  If you do like the versatility of neutral, try adding color, pattern, and texture with throw pillows or seat cushions.  Blue, yellow, pink, and green are all wonderful summer shades.

Adding versatile furnishings is another great idea.  What can give you the most use for your money?  Bistro sets are ideal; they work well on patios, decks, balconies, and in a corner of your lawn or garden.  You can use the stools for everything from casual picnics to elegant evening parties.  Wrought iron and other durable materials work beautifully and will stand up to the elements.

One more trend that will light up your summer nights: fire pits.  There are larger fire pits, as well as small fire pots.  They make a perfect gathering spot for family and friends on chilly nights – or when the urge for roasted marshmallows strikes.  Fueled by wood or propane, these are an excellent way to build a festive, safe fire for your yard.

Other small touches, such as decorative stepping stones, wind chimes, fun flower and plant pots, and sculptures or fountains, can help create the perfect, sunny backyard oasis.  Summer is over in the blink of an eye; make it a beautiful blink!