The anticipation for the upcoming outdoor season is high. Many people long to spend time on the terrace, balcony, or in the garden again. 'The outdoor living room is becoming increasingly important. As a significant place for relaxation and socialising, it is being equipped with high-quality, comfortable, and stylish furnishings,' says Jan Kurth, Managing Director of the German Furniture Industry Associations (VDM/VHK).
The boundaries between indoor and outdoor furnishings are blurring. 'Outdoor furniture designs and comfort are becoming more and more similar to those of dining and living rooms indoors, and they are hardly distinguishable from indoor furniture,' says Kurth. Sometimes, furniture originally designed for indoor use is being developed into weather-resistant models.
Outdoor sofas are becoming round and cosy
Just like indoor upholstered furniture, outdoor sofas are increasingly featuring organic shapes. The sofa frames made of cord or aluminium are often as curved as the soft, plush cushions, which provide plenty of cosiness. The weather-resistant textiles, increasingly incorporating recycled materials, have a homely appearance due to a thick thread pattern and possess a soft, pleasant texture. Often, the cushion covers are removable and washable. Popular colours include light natural tones, grey shades, as well as delicate blue and green hues. High-quality materials and craftsmanship ensure the durability of the products.
Sophisticated combinations in woven furniture
Modern cord weaves made of robust high-tech fibres contribute to the homely atmosphere outdoors, serving as attractive and comfortable frames or seat shells for sofas, loungers, or chairs. The moisture and UV-resistant synthetic fibres appear extremely natural. A special visual effect is promised by a new weaving technique: two different types and colours of fibres are interwoven in a strand, resulting in attractive colour combinations and geometric patterns.
Dining and lounge tables with slatted frames
For dining tables, as well as for outdoor furnishings in general, a material mix of matte black aluminium, brushed stainless steel, wood, natural stone, ceramic, or glass is popular. Stylish slatted frames made of powder-coated aluminium with a high-quality solid wood tabletop promise a summery flair. The warm wood tone complements the base in warm ivory perfectly. Garden tables with extension options provide a lot of flexibility when hosting family or friends. Padded dining chairs or benches - preferably in a corner arrangement - invite guests to linger at the table for a long time.
Colour accents through colourful metal chairs and patterned umbrellas
Vibrant aluminium chairs provide colourful accents. They are either made entirely of aluminium or have an aluminium frame with straps in bright yellow, orange, red, or blue. Many models can be stacked to save space, making them suitable for small balconies where they can be complemented with dainty folding tables. Striped umbrellas in retro style or Hawaiian fringe optics, colourful bean bags or poufs also make beautiful eye-catchers. The homely ambience is completed by cosy throws and cushions, outdoor rugs, lanterns with metal, concrete, or bamboo housings, delicate LED lamps for table lighting, or string lights.
Retreat: The Hollywood swing
The modern version of the Hollywood swing offers a particularly relaxed way to spend time outdoors. Soft cushions rest casually on a delicate wire frame made of steel. Up to three people can sit on the swing bench hanging from sturdy ropes. Hanging chairs and rocking chairs also provide soothing rocking movements. Other special retreats are the so-called daybeds, comfortable outdoor beds - often in shell shape and with a canopy.
Individually configurable outdoor kitchens
Cooking outdoors is becoming increasingly popular. A simple grill is no longer enough for many hobby chefs. Weather-resistant outdoor kitchens, which can be individually configured, are equipped with a gas or charcoal grill, an outdoor refrigerator, a sink, and plenty of storage space, making outdoor cooking a special experience. Thanks to resistant materials, outdoor kitchens can stand outside all year round.
Source: moebelindustrie