Patio Trends: What Was Old Is New Again
Every year, patio trends come and go. Some will stand the test of time but many more will be long forgotten. Nevertheless, it’s always fun to see what new outdoor furniture and accessory options people are considering compared to the year before. What is hot one year can be frowned upon the next. Some trends take us completely by surprise, popping up out of nowhere and becoming the next big thing. Join us as we take a look at the newest patio trends in 2016 and appreciate the surprising new directions homeowners are taking with their patios.
Personality and Individuality
It’s no surprise that in the US, a country that values individuality, patios that showcase a distinct personality are growing more and more in popularity. Homeowners and even apartment dwellers appreciate this new direction because it allows them to flex their creative muscles and show off their personal design skills. Even if it’s a mass produced furniture set, having a set of custom patio cushions with unique patterns and colors can make a huge difference to adding a personalized look. Homeowners don’t just want to hire someone to design their outdoor space, they want to roll up their sleeves and be a part of the process.
Hand Crafted Furniture
Just like the industrial look, hand crafted furniture emphasizes the process of making it as much as the materials and design. But instead of bolts and rivets on display, it’s the intricate hand woven outdoor furniture designs and delicately carved woods that take center stage. These pieces of furniture lean more towards a natural look, using materials that look natural even if they aren’t, such as textured synthetic wicker. They embrace a simple elegance by combining natural looking materials with high quality craftsmanship.
Vibrant Use of Color
People want to have fun on their patio. Therefore we are seeing a rise in patio designs that use bright, vivid colors to create an exciting environment. Choices of colors and patterns are more eclectic, not taking themselves too seriously. This helps create a light, relaxed mood perfect for outdoor parties, barbecues, and special events such as birthday parties. Companies are taking notice as we have seen this in everything from dining tables to outdoor fire pits. Colorful patterns are another way to make a space feel more bright and fun, such as colorfully patterned cushions, outdoor rugs, and patio umbrellas.
The Well Traveled Look
When people travel, they gain an appreciation for other cultures and lifestyles. Homeowners like to show off this appreciation through their choice of outdoor furniture. When friends and family come over to relax on the patio, the furniture becomes a conversation piece which allows them to talk about their experiences in Africa, Latin America, East Asia, etc. For this look, hand woven wicker with colorful patterns reminiscent of tribal cultures are a great option, such as our new line of Mandala Lounge Chairs by Harmonia Living. An appreciation of history goes hand in hand with the well traveled look. The Acapulco chair is popular with people who appreciate furniture that has a story to tell.
The Aged Gracefully Look
For people who want something more subtle and distinguished, outdoor furniture that looks as if it has aged gracefully is becoming a popular choice. Gray color tones are a good choice because they blend well together with other colors. This look also includes furniture which is designed to look weathered and distressed. At Patio Productions, our new District Collection features a gray textured slate wicker which combines shades of gray to create a natural and aged look.
Elegant & Luxurious Style
People who are looking for a more upscale look are turning to high fashion for inspiration. Like the runways of New York and Paris, these luxurious outdoor spaces embrace boldness in design. Faux fur throw blankets are draped over chaise lounges and cushions feature sparkling fabrics. The look of hand woven wicker furniture is reminiscent of clothing designs that use interlaced strapping. Outdoor daybeds next to the pool are a great way to create a elegant and luxurious look. Pearl white and royal purple are popular color choices.
Covered Patios
In 2016, more and more homeowners want to extend their indoor living space outdoors. This means covered patios are becoming popular again. A covered patio allows people to use their outdoor space all year long, without having to worry about poor weather such as rain and the occasional summertime heat wave. It also creates opportunities for other types of living spaces such as outdoor bars and kitchens. When it gets cold, an outdoor fireplace is a smart idea because covered patios help trap the heat inside.
Multi-Function Furniture
Consumers are demanding more bang for their buck in 2016. This means outdoor furniture that serves more than one purpose. Ottomans are a good choice because they can also serve as additional seating when needed. Fire pits that convert into a fire table or barbecue pit gives consumers plenty of choices. Some outdoor furniture can serve multiple purposes as well, such as the Urbana Day Lounger, which can be used as a sofa, lounge chair, or daybed.
There are many factors that influence patio trends. But when it comes to outdoor living spaces, necessity is the mother of invention. People want to have liveable, comfortable outdoor spaces that feel like an extension of the home. What the space is being used for plays a large role as well. But everyone wants an outdoor space that looks good too. People who enjoy outdoor parties with friends and relaxed dinners on the deck want a patio that suits their needs, as well as showcase their taste for design. But don’t just follow patio trends, be sure to showcase your individuality.
Cheryl is an award-winning landscape design consultant in San Diego, CA. She has over a decade of experience in the design world, working on both interior and exterior projects. She received her certification in design in 2010 and has contributed to the design of 7 separate furniture collections. Cheryl began lending her expertise to Patio Productions’ blog in 2012. When she’s not living in the furniture and design world, she’s busy playing with her dogs at home, or curling up with a cup of black coffee and a beautiful book on modern design. Her favorite patio furniture are her Acapulco Chairs in lightning blue.
The colors in that PremierSanMiguel photo look amazing! I agree with you that patio designs and setups really depend on what the homeowner needs from the space. A patio is as comfortable and fun as you can/want to make it. Thanks for sharing!
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