Must-Haves to Elevate Every Type of Outdoor Space

2022-05-21 15:22:47 By : Ms. Jane Yin

Whether you’re decorating a city terrace or suburban backyard, we’re here to help.

Any outdoor space is a luxury, be it a tiny balcony or a sprawling lawn. But different areas require different elements—what works for the front porch doesn’t always translate to a back deck.

To help you create the outdoor space of your dreams, we’ve put together five looks for distinct areas—from rooftop terraces to pool lounge surrounds and more—each anchored by pieces from Woodard, a go-to for luxe and comfortable outdoor furniture.

Here, you’ll find the essentials you need for each space, along with styling tips, so you can enjoy the season without needing to leave home. In fact, invite some friends over—your outdoor oasis is sure to be everyone’s new favorite hangout.

Not only does a well-styled front porch offer a cozy spot to drink your morning coffee, it also seriously ups your home’s curb appeal. To keep it from feeling crowded, stick to pieces with clean lines in a dark color palette, letting varied silhouettes add visual interest.

Set the stage with a few comfy seating options. Woodard’s aluminum Nico chair is outfitted with a plush cushion and the base is finished with cool geometric details, while a hanging porch swing is perfect for catching up with a friend. An end table offers a little landing pad for snacks and drinks, and a patterned doormat adds a bold accent. Finish it off with modern planters and a porch light with unexpected angles to make your entryway feel more inviting.

Bring Parisienne charm to your balcony with finds that exude a je ne sais quoi. Start from the ground up, with easy-to-install patterned decking that will make your concrete balcony look like a romantic cafe. Then choose furniture that puts a colorful spin on the classic wrought iron details you often find on French patios.

Woodard’s Turner lounge chairs and mesh-topped bistro table, ideal for small spaces, look fresh in a cheerful kelly green. A bright yellow side table with an elegant perforated top and wheels makes for a mobile plant stand, while railing planters lined with coconut fibers add greenery without taking up precious square footage.

Make good use of vertical space with a chic shelving unit, ideal for storage and plant displays. Don’t forget some mood lighting: Classic white string lights will complete the European bistro feel.

Add some pop to your pool deck with colorful additions that make it feel like you’re lounging at your favorite resort. Start with a couple oh-so comfy padded chaise lounges from Woodard—choose from over 200 fabrics—along with a bright, tiltable umbrella. Throw a few punchy pillows in the mix to make those al fresco naps even more enjoyable.

This slender end table is a chaise’s best friend, offering the perfect place to rest your mocktail. Serve all your poolside drinks in shatter-resistant, candy-colored highball glasses. When the sun goes down, cast a kaleidoscopic glow on the pool surface with floating orb lights that illuminate in seven colors.

Create an urban oasis by decking your terrace with contemporary, versatile pieces that feel comfortable whether you’re hosting a crowd or flying solo. Instead of the usual table and chairs, go with a chaise lounge or two to cultivate a chill vibe. Place a glass-topped side table next to it and you have the ideal spot for enjoying an aperitivo that you mixed up on your outdoor bar cart—the ultimate summer entertaining hack. Guests can help themselves to drinks without having to head inside.

Choose pieces in a city-chic palette of black and gray for a classic look that can be dressed up with accessories. To incorporate some warmth into a modern space, an outdoor rug lends a cozy feel underfoot. Pot a few big leafy palms in raised fluted planters and add a moon-like, battery-powered outdoor floor lamp for a pleasant glow at night.

Your backyard should be a place to kick back and relax with family and friends. Natural materials with woven details create a soothing scene. For low-key entertaining, invest in a large dining table and cushioned chairs that invite guests to linger. This set from Woodard gives you the look of rattan but with a more durable aluminum base. Place it under a pergola, and you’ve got an instant backyard focal point.

Easily transition the space from day to night with a fire table—this version has a textured faux-thatch top—a few indoor/outdoor throw blankets draped on chairs, and rattan lanterns for ambiance and warmth. And the cherry on the top of any backyard: A tufted hammock for swaying to sleep under a summer sunset.