Your Home and Garden stylist Lauren Olive shares how she likes to entertain outside, her top tips for choosing outdoor furniture and how to create a relaxed outdoor space using new season Freedom pieces.
How do you like to use your outdoor space in summer?
I love an outdoor area that’s relaxed and comfortable with little maintenance required. It should easily adapt to accommodate friends who come over for a weekend barbecue, neighbours who pop over for an impromptu gin in the afternoon and, more frequently, somewhere comfortable to sit back and watch the kids kicking the ball in the garden or doing flips on the trampoline.
What about entertaining outside?
My style is very laidback. It’s usually a charcuterie board overflowing with various bits and pieces that can easily be topped up throughout the afternoon, so having a modular sofa with a coffee table means everyone is within snack range and it’s a great, all-inclusive conversation pit.
How do you select your outdoor furniture?
I start with a relaxed and comfortable corner sofa, so I can add cushions and throws (for those cooler summer nights) to personalise the space. I prefer the modern industrial aesthetic of aluminium. The added bonus is that its strong, square frame stands out in contrast to the garden and I know it’s easy to clean and will last in the harsh New Zealand sun.
What are your tips for choosing outdoor furniture?
Consider the space – is the area small or large? You should avoid putting small dainty outdoor pieces in a large area as they will get lost. Instead, opt for a larger piece that can establish the zone as your outdoor entertaining area. Consider adding an outdoor rug to ground the area, shade cover and outdoor lighting. Choose furniture with fabric that has had UV treatment, has a rust-resistant frame, or is made of timber to cope with the weather.
In terms of styling, I start with an outdoor floor rug. I have cushions that are interchangeable between the indoor lounge and the outside couch so I can mix and match throughout the season. Try layering different-sized cushions to create interest and have a basket of cosy knit blankets available for the evening.
What’s your favourite Freedom piece this season?
The Ataman outdoor modular sofa for its minimalist look – and the arms are perfect to rest a glass of chilled wine on.
Lauren’s picks from Freedom’s new season collection
01
Cate outdoor cushion
$69.95 at Freedom
Bring in a splash of style and comfort to your outdoor seating with this outdoor cushion. It’s designed to resist UV rays, fading and mildew so you’ll be able to use for many summers to come.
02
Leura decorative bowl
$119 at Freedom
This bowl boasts a unique organic shape and textured surface, ideal as a standalone décor piece or a versatile addition to your layering arrangements.
03
Palm Areca garden pot
from $169 at Freedom
The feathery arched fronds of this Areca Palm instantly transforms any space.
04
Parc planter
from $119 at Freedom
Handcrafted in stone with high-quality light cement, the chalice-shaped planter adds a sculptural beauty to your outdoor space.
05
Ataman modular sofa
$5,199 at Freedom
Elevate your outdoor space with the Ataman modular sofa. This outdoor sofa is designed with rust-resistant aluminium frames and plush Olefin fabric upholstery, and is crafted to ensure it remains vibrant and durable, even with regular use. Complete the set with the matching Ataman coffee table ($1,199), to create a cohesive outdoor look.
For more summer entertaining inspiration, explore our expert guides:
- How to style your dining room with Your Home and Garden editor Fiona Hawtin
- How to entertain in style outdoors with Your Home and Garden editorial director Sarah Henry
- The definitive guide to entertaining inside and out
Related stories
Native ad body.
Native ad body.
Native ad body.
