
We are in the height of summer, which means outdoor gatherings are in full swing. Think: brunches, picnics, pool parties, wine parties, and my favorite: potluck dinners. A well-decorated outdoor space is a great place to hold these get-togethers, accessorized with chic decor to spruce up your outdoor oasis.
Currently, I’m making do with my little patio space lined with string lights coupled with second-hand wicker chairs. I live vicariously through Instagram posts and home visits Youtube I’m saving for future reference when I buy my own home someday, but that doesn’t mean I can’t make small improvements today – and you can too.
For inspiration for your next purchase, we’ve tapped a few interior designers to share the outdoor decor they love and tips for styling these pieces in your own backyard, below.
Photo: Habito
Iron/glass outdoor candle holder
“Hang these lanterns from trees or dot them around your porch or patio – they add vintage charm and warmth to your outdoor space, day or night.
Jungalow
Maraca hammock
“The perfect place to hang out all summer long. It’s a great way to spruce up the garden by adding a splash of color, all with the added benefit of lounging.”
Goodbye
The Market Umbrella
“Cast shade – in the best way – with these patio umbrellas. The fringe adds that little extra touch you didn’t know you needed.”
Business & Pleasure Co.
Paseo Towel Set
“Awesome towels that are as comfortable as they are chic. The pops of color and patterns are a big hit, and it’s such a chic and practical way to incorporate that.”
luna zorro
Photos: Donna Dotan
Pacifica Swivel Chair
“I love using Serena & Lily’s Pacifica collection of woven wicker chairs, sofas, loveseats and more to outfit decks and patios. Their gorgeous colorways are perfectly sunny and beach-ready all season long. .
Serena & Lily
Provence Scalloped Edge Planter
“There’s nothing more classic than a bouquet of geraniums soaking up the sun in cheerful scalloped terracotta pots. The thing to have!”
pottery barn
Citronella scented candles, set of 3
“Entertaining outdoors is my most favorite thing about the summer season, but mosquitoes are my sworn enemy. Citronella candles in pretty containers are the best for keeping pesky stings away while enjoying the summer breeze.
The Pretty Muse
Young huhFounder of Young Huh Interior Design
Photo: Ngoc Minh Ngo
Ajmer Square Lantern in Aged Rust Bronze
“I love candlelight and a lit fire at night. I like having tall pillars and shorter pillars so you have a very layered and magical candlelight. Those particular lanterns that you could hang in low branches here and there . [Add in] romantic music and drinks, and you have the perfect summer evening.”
Jamali Garden
Avalon Daybed
“I have two of these Serena & Lily outdoor daybeds. Layer them with bohemian pillows and you have the perfect place to relax, work or take an afternoon nap. The rattan of exterior is very popular right now and so beautiful!
Serena & Lily
octagonal placemat
“Don’t forget to set a nice table when you eat out. I love these placemats. They will dress up your outdoor table and you can start layering your table with flowers, lanterns and fruit in bowls.
Party Home
Devon Easy Care Square Planter
“Dress up your patio with lots and lots of flowers and plants. Planters like this are classic and create architecture for your patio.
Grandin Road
Photo: Courtesy of Hema Persad
Feliz Rattan Bar Cart
“You can’t entertain outdoors without a cute place to make drinks! Anything with a natural texture will work well outdoors, both practically and visually. Think rattan, wicker, to wood – things that will stand up to the sun/rain, but also not look too out of place in an outdoor setting.”
CB2
Fluted Acrylic Drinking Glasses
“Colored glassware has a moment, so I love these [colored glasses] for an eclectic and fun look. They’re a bit vintage, a bit mid-century, and since they’re acrylic, you don’t have to worry about them breaking. They are perfect for entertaining by the pool.
western elm
Waterproof patio lights
“I can’t forget the lighting, it really sets the tone when the sun goes down. There doesn’t have to be a lot either, just enough lighting to cast a warm glow over everything. Opt for a warm white instead of a cool white. your. I like to add a rattan lantern or two above an outdoor dining table. It gives the impression that you are on vacation in your garden.”
brighttech
Cabo Tiki Torch Holder
“Every outdoor space needs a fire pit. The ambiance created by the firelight on summer evenings is truly unparalleled. I love these modern tiki torches as they look stylish and pair well with most decorations.”
Manufacture of bells