Images via Setting For Four and Coben Architects

Yes it’s true, and it bothers us too, but outdoor furniture is expenny!

This is often one of the reasons why outdoor spaces of our homes tend to become an after thought, when in fact they deserve just as much love as the interiors – especially when we are blessed with such beautiful South African weather.

Views from inside any home look out onto the spaces surrounding, allowing the outdoor area to potentially become a work of art framed through the windows or doors looking out. Would you rather be looking at a cluttered patio with plastic furniture items, or a neglected patio space, or would you rather create an inviting social retreat, with outdoor seating spaces and relaxing garden views.

We understand that outdoor furniture pieces need to be durable enough for your setting. Is the space completely exposed to the weather, or is it partially or fully covered? Will you need to cover the furniture and bring cushions in on a daily basis, or can you just leave them out there throughout the summer months? For many people unpacking and packing away their outdoor space on a daily basis is just too much admin, and they’d rather go with hardy pieces that either weather well or will withstand the elements.

Given the cost of furnishing an outdoor space we consider it a necessity to create a space that truly reflects your style and will bring you joy and relaxation season after season.

Wood and White

Nothing says “absolutely classic” quite like a wood and white (or neutral) base setting. Each of the spaces below is different in style and materials, but each space is using the theme of wood furniture and white (ivory) cushions to furnish the space.

Notice how they’ve all subtly brought in interest through texture materials, whether through the smaller furniture, like coffee and side tables or through the textiles.

Images via Oak & Orange, Amanda Interiors, and Architectural Digest

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Dark and Moody

With dark settings it seems like the choice is yours. You can play on the darkness bringing in darker cushion for a moody setting – which we feel gives off very #adulting vibes and adds a lot to the ambiance in the evenings, especially when you have the perfect low lighting in place.

However you can also choose to go with wood based furniture and lighter cushions to lighten up the space.

Images via Centsational Style, The Wooden Hill, and Artillerit

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Contemporary and Colourful

In contemporary and colourful spaces, the key is combining modern elements with beautiful textiles. Choose sleek pieces with clean lines, and consider modular pieces that can be re-arranged to suit different occasions.

When it comes to colour, we prefer colours that reflect nature – think greens and terracotta and red earthy colours. Use deep, saturated shades for a sophisticated and contemporary style. Rather than mixing in many different colours, we suggest a tonal installation of one or two colours throughout the space.

Images via Cozy Matic, Flexform, and Pinterest

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Country Classic

If classic is your game, then you can’t go wrong with oversized natural wicker and woven furniture pieces (no plastic rattan here!). The softly curved edges and abundance of cushions offer a relaxing decadence to your outdoor setting.

This style calls for stripes, checks and patterns in the accessories, for a classical and timeless feel.