As the weather gets warmer, it’s only right to enjoy the outdoor space. Decorating for your yard or patio is quite different than decorating for interiors. From selecting the best furniture material to achieving a harmonious appearance, the small details make an enormous impact on how your outdoor space can be made to look.
There are certain themes for outdoor decor that are more prevalent than others. However, there are many different styles that are equally appealing according to the opinions of interior designers. If it’s a style that’s too crowded or a design style that’s easy to fall into, there are certain styles that you should stay clear of.
To prevent decorating disasters, we asked two interior designers to select our top outdoor decor concepts they’re tired of seeing. And what they suggest you go for instead.
Farmhouse Design
While the farmhouse style has won the hearts of a lot of people for interiors, Interior stylist Christine Vroom finds it doesn’t possess the same appeal when it comes to outdoor use.
“The weathered wood, galvanized metal, and mason jar lights are long gone,” Vroom states. “It feels more DIY than inviting, and often lacks the personality that makes an outdoor space feel fresh and lived-in.”
Instead of the highly decorated farmhouse style, Vroom suggests opting for an approach that is more organized and playing with different textures.
“Swap distressed wood for rich for softened pre-treated teaks, [and] replace galvanized or unfinished metal with aged brass or blackened steel for a more sophisticated touch,” she advises. “Layer in organic textures like linen-esque cushions, handmade pottery, and sculptural lighting to create a space that feels warm, intentional, and effortlessly inviting.”
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Metal and Plastic Furnishings
In the case of tables and chairs, traditional metal and plastic are both materials that may appear unnatural against the natural background in your backyard.
“[They are] a definite out for us!” claims Tammy Price, founder of Interior designer studio Fragments Identity. “There are so many new, beautiful options with the amazing performance textiles and furnishings styles today, which can provide a homeowner the opportunity to carry the look of their interior to the exterior.”
The designer’s top picks for alternatives to metal and plastic are wooden frames and Wicker furniture.
Because they’re already present in nature, they can more easily blend into the outdoor setting, creating a more natural, calming design.
Elegant Resort Architecture
Although modern luxury yards look stunning on the covers of a magazine, they may appear bland in reality when the main features aren’t distinctive, according to Vroom.
“Repeating the same sunken seating, infinity pools, and cabana layouts with bright colors and cliche stripes can make a space feel more like a trendy hotel than a personal sanctuary,” she explains.
Your outdoor space should be a showcase of the aesthetics and functions that are unique to you.
“The most luxurious outdoor spaces feel intentional, with bespoke design moments that reflect the architecture, landscape, and the way the homeowner actually lives,” Vroom states. “Think inwardly, rather than run to inspirational images: How do you want your space to feel? And then go from there.”
Combining Different Styles
While some choose to have a consistent look when arranging outdoor decor, some decide to throw the concept of a theme completely, which Price does not approve of.
“Over-designing an outdoor space with too much and too many different styles is a no,” the designer states.
To make the process simpler, Price suggests going back to the basics.
“We take the approach of creating seating or dining areas with furnishings that work together in style–nice textiles and larger-type planters, incorporate string lights, and keep it simple.”
One method to make your outdoor space appear natural without a lot of thought is to purchase a furniture set that is upholstered. Everything is already in place and the price says.
“[It’s a] big plus if you are seeking the indoor to outdoor transition as we do,” she states. “Go for it!”
Themes from the tropics
Many people want their outdoor spaces to be akin to an escape, a holiday-inspired style isn’t the only method to achieve that.
“[I’d like to see less] overuse of bright colors, tropical patterns, and crisp fabrics,” Vroom states. “Being in the design industry, there are so many more options down to outdoor mohairs. So go deeper than assuming you have to go neutral or tropical.”
Outdoor furniture from tropical regions often has lots of synthetic wicker. Vroom is tired from seeing within outdoor areas.
“These often bulky silhouettes can detract from the elegance of a space, making it feel more commercial or cliche,” she explains. “A more refined approach would embrace natural woven materials with organic variations, sculptural shapes, and unexpected options like a contrast of stone, fully upholstered pieces, and simplicity to elevate the look.”
