If we didn’t appreciate outdoor spaces before, it’s highly likely that we do now — especially, after so much pandemic time spent at home. And even though life is starting to feel a bit more normal again, we can’t ignore how those extra days and months of confinement made many of us very aware of what our outdoor spaces had to offer. While some of us may have been totally content, the rest of us were taking mental notes regarding what changes could be made to make our home feel even homier.
Now, here we are faced with a new year and new (or continuing) trends — many of which will definitely improve our outdoor living spaces. But before we get into specifics, let’s take a look at what makes a great outdoor living space in the first place.
Comfort Meets Style
When it comes to outdoor living spaces, the goal is to make it feel like it’s an extension of the interior. Therefore, it’s more than perfectly acceptable to focus on style as much as comfort.
As you curate items to fill your outdoor living area, give careful thought to the overall color palette, as well as the types of seating, fabric choices, and even outdoor decor. We’re well past the days when you only had a few select, and often boring, choices. With what’s available today, the ideas for executing an outdoor transformation are seemingly endless.
Big round chairs and outdoor sectional couches have become the norm thanks to the technology that has brought us some pretty incredible indoor/outdoor performance fabrics. This alone is a game-changer in how outdoor spaces are being designed. Area rugs and even decor, such as lamps, are also being made in a way that makes them suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. Because of this, homeowners can easily take their outdoor haven to the next level.
As usual, neutrals serve as a wonderful foundation for pops of color and pattern. And, while blues and greens appear to be front and center this year, there are plenty of other hues that are worthy of being showcased in your outdoor space.
In fact, we’ve compiled a handful of our favorite fabrics, rugs, and lighting to give you an idea of just how beautiful your outdoor living area can be.
Now that we’ve covered a bit about how you can merge comfort with style, let’s take a look at some of the specific outdoor living design trends that will be hot in 2022.
1. Sustainable Products
Sustainability is here to stay. Therefore, even the most stylish products are getting an eco-friendly upgrade. This year, expect eco-friendly decor, recycled outdoor furniture, and natural materials like reclaimed wood and bamboo to be in demand — all of which are widely available thanks to more brands embracing sustainable practices.
Did you know we carry a variety of sustainable products? Be sure to pop in to check out items including window treatment brackets made of sustainable plantation-grown hardwood and indoor/outdoor rugs handwoven with sustainable 100% PET made from recycled water bottles.
2. Calm, Cool Colors
Adding color to an outdoor space is always a wonderful idea, but this year, as mentioned earlier, it’s all about a calmer palette.
Look for soft, earthy shades of green, relaxing blues, and subdued neutrals. Colors like these are ideal for promoting a beautifully tranquil space that’s both easy on the eyes and the mind.
3. Lots and Lots of Greenery
Plants and flowers are living decorations that can add another layer to an outdoor living space. Not only do they provide beauty and enjoyment, but they can also really elevate the look of your outdoor fabrics and decor.
Even faux flowers and plants, such as the ones we offer, can really make a difference in your outdoor living space — and without the required maintenance!
4. Detached Outdoor Living Spaces
Outdoor living spaces have morphed into an extension of the actual house. So, it’s no surprise that detached outdoor living spaces are becoming more and more popular. It’s likely you’ve heard these small structures called names like granny flat, mancave, and she-shed. But now, they’ve become so much more. These snazzy little structures are being used as little guest houses and even outdoor offices — all of which can still benefit from great fabric choices and decor!
5. High-Tech Exteriors
It was only a matter of time before the exteriors of homes got a tech upgrade. Whether it’s a Wi-Fi boost to help meet work demands, music or television installation, or color-changing LED lights, outdoor tech is wanted now more than ever before.
Cutting Corners For Beautiful Outdoor Living
Are you ready to create a beautiful outdoor living space? If so, be sure to check out our selection of indoor/outdoor performance fabrics, lighting, and decorative accents that can really make your outdoor living space look and feel like it’s a true extension of your home.
