Get the look: Outdoor trends and styles for a summer al fresco

Palm Springs-Style Outdoor Furniture

Take some inspiration from one of mid-century modern’s favourite destinations – Palm Springs. Think crisp white and earth-toned decor, natural wood tables and intricately shaped retro furniture.

Hunter Home’s visual merchandising manager Jodie White says, “Subtle retro influences shown in the new soft curves are trending, as well as oval contours nurturing a sense of unity and a connection to nature.” Sounds like a win to us. Pop a couple of cacti nearby and slip on some cat-eye sunglasses for the ultimate desert resort look.

Get the look

**Clockwise from top left:** Byron Bay outdoor corner lounge suite, $7899, from Harvey Norman; Home Bazar Papasan occasional chair, $229, from Bunnings; Leaf outdoor table, $379, from Cuchi; Le Vent dining chair, $399, from Freedom; Le Vent dining table, $1499, from Freedom; Sixties bench, $1905, from Jardin.

Contemporary Outdoor Furniture

For some, the best trend is one that draws inspiration from modern influences. The result is a celebration of minimalist statement furniture. When planning a courtyard, Jodie says, “Consider layout, design and functionality. Ensure your space harmonises with its surroundings and creates an oasis.”

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Factor in all the existing features of your space and plan accordingly. Will you be lying in the sunshine or chatting over dinner? Is there a pool? Select furniture pieces accordingly. For the contemporary aesthetic, think loungers with neutral cushions or picnic tables made of concrete or metal.

Get the look

**Clockwise from top left:** Riva outdoor three-seater, $4999, and armchair, $2099, large square coffee table, $899, and small rectangle coffee table, from $799, from Hunter Home; Biscay dining package, $2499, from Freedom; Maxwell concrete coffee table, $1899, from Design Warehouse; Modulo concrete outdoor dining set, $3097, from Trade Tested; TSB Living Solaris outdoor lounge, $629.10, from The Warehouse; Shore outdoor picnic table, $6799, from Hunter Home.

Coastal-Style Outdoor Furniture

The coastal grandmother aesthetic isn’t going anywhere fast, and we’re here for it. Bring the beach to your courtyard with rattan furniture.

Jodie suggests that treating the space as another room is key to nailing the design. “Use neutral furniture that blends with your landscapes and designs that seamlessly transition your indoor-outdoor flow,” she says.

Once you’ve selected your furniture, don’t hesitate to dress it up with nautical-themed decor. “We are reflecting our indoors outside, the same rules apply – have fun and be creative.” Blue pillows and throws are a given for the coastal vibe, as well as anything with stripes. Nancy Meyers, here we come.