Style: Spicing Up Outdoor Decor

Story by Vivien Koronet of Vivien Koronet Interior Designs. Above, Kartell Bubble Club Sofa designed by Philippe Starck, available from SmartFurniture.

Cary, NC – It looks like warm weather is here to stay,  and creating a colorful, eye-catching outside space for family and friends will allow you to appreciate the mild North Carolina temperatures so much more!

Furniture Options

Many outdoor furniture options exist, including cast aluminum, cast iron, weather proof wicker and teak, to name a few.

Powder coated cast aluminum is a nice alternative to cast iron.  It has the same look and feel, with the added advantage of being much lighter in weight.

Gorgeous style options from traditional to contemporary are available in all these materials.

How to Choose the Right Fabric

When selecting cushions for your outdoor seating, it’s important to keep a few things in mind.

Any given furniture line has their own selection of fabrics to choose from; however, there are a multitude of additional options that may be more suited toward your taste. Outdoor fabrics refer to woven textiles made from a wide variety of synthetic fibers, acrylic, polyester, olefin and various blends, including cotton.

For more help, a professional Interior Designer can assist you in finding just the right fabrics, plus address other factors including durability.

Bye Bye Stains

An exterior fabric needs to be resistant to mold, sun fading and staining, because along with the outdoor casual atmosphere, comes a more messy environment. Most outdoor fabrics are made “water repellent” by a chemical treatment process during manufacturing.  The treated fabric repels water, resists soiling, and impedes mildew formation.

These fabric are easy to clean and some outdoor fabrics can be bleached without losing their color, a wonderful advantage to keep in mind.

Color Color Everywhere

Remember, you are outside, so don’t be afraid of color, you can pump it up a bit more out in the open!

Pair vibrant prints with vivid solid colors, and refrain from putting the same fabric on every cushioned piece. Pull a color from a printed cushioned sofa, for use as a solid color fabric on an accompanying cushioned chair. The result will be more engaging, creating a lively atmosphere.

Mix it up!

You want your outdoor living space to exude vibrancy and energy! So mix it up with different materials. Try a slate cocktail table with cast aluminum seating, or mix rattan furnishings with slate accents. Bring in some teak here and there. Ceramic garden stools provide a nice twist as side tables, and brightly colored porcelain pieces spice up the environment to add a finishing touch.

So set the stage for dinner and drinks on your deck or screened porch, with a colorful well put together design. Entertaining, sharing a meal, or just relaxing with family will be so much more delightful!