outdoor furniture Archives

2024 Outdoor Furnishings Trends: Lake Home Designer Kelly Guinaugh Shares Her Trade Secrets

Posted on March 26, 2024March 26, 2024 Jeanne Delathouder

Text by Kelly Guinaugh, ASID
Produced by Jeanne Delathouder

Covered patio with sofa, chairs, and round metal cocktail table with lake setting in background — *Photo courtesy of* *West of Main Design*

Here in the Midwest, we start dreaming about the summer months in spring and the warm weather coming our way soon. Like many lake lovers, we relish this season because it allows us to revamp our outdoor furnishings and return to our blissful outdoor living spaces once again. My Chicago-area design firm, Interior Enhancement Group, embraces this opportunity every year to create unique spaces through our bespoke designs that speak to our clients’ lifestyles. Spring is a special time for us—when we get to stretch our creative wings and plan your perfect outdoor living scenario, so when the sun shines again, and temps begin to soar, these spaces are ready for you to enjoy.

This year, we are seeing an emphasis on a few new trends as well as the continuation of those we have seen over the past few years. Lake homeowners especially want to connect with nature via their outdoor living spaces, and maximizing the splendid water views remains a priority. Light-filled sunrooms, lavish patios, and party-ready outdoor kitchens continue to trend, blurring the lines between inside and out. Additionally, mixing textures, materials, and organic shapes is still going strong and brings a soothing aesthetic to any space.

Comfort and functionality are also essential to enjoying life at the lake. And this year, we’re bringing on double-duty lounge pieces, bold colors, and patterns like never before. There is also a focus on layered lighting—think firelight, ambient light, and task lighting—to create (and control) your desired vibe. So, join me as I walk you through some of my favorite outdoor furnishings trends for 2024.

Seamless Living

When our indoor spaces flow gracefully into our outdoor living areas, the result is a seamless design that creates lovely continuity. The first step to accomplishing this starts with flooring. Simply by using the same porcelain or stone both inside and out, your spaces suddenly feel like one large room, expanding the living areas visually. The same effect can be achieved if we use different materials but keep them in the same color family.

Beyond the foundation of the floor material, we always get great results when using the same color scheme in our fabrics and finishes, as well as similar furniture styles. And don’t forget to include comfy cushions and soft pillows, just like in your interior rooms. This will further create an equally inviting outdoor space—just like what you’re accustomed to in your family room. More and more, people continue to blur the boundaries between inside and out.

Bold Beauty

Outdoor patio with dog and outdoor furniture with vibrant red stripes — *Interior design and photo courtesy of* *Summer Classics*

In both interior and exterior living spaces, our clients are ready to add more patterns and bolder colors than in recent years. We are seeing vibrant colors—emeralds, saturated blues, and bright oranges—and a fearless mix of patterns. Bold stripes, graphic prints, and large and small-scale florals are all happy together outside.

A bold approach with textures is trending as well. Outdoor furnishings are blending industrial metals with concrete accent pieces. Finishes range from smooth to rugged and unfinished—all working together to bring interest, drama, and organic appeal to your outdoor living space.

Pattern Play

covered outdoor patio with graphic tile flooring, a fire pit, sofa, and lanterns — *Photo Courtesy of* *Lucas Interior*

This playful patio comes to life in a dance of patterns and lively colors. Stripes harmonize with graphic floor tile with this vivid primary palette anchored with black accents. Woven lanterns and glossy ceramic stools bring a balance of refined textures that complement the rustic wood ceiling beams. The black-and-white tile floor bordered in solid black defines the seating area, much like an area rug. A circular fire pit with cushions provides extra seating for guests while creating a dynamic focal point. Simply put, these fun outdoor furnishings welcome a party!

Light It Up!

Covered and uncovered outdoor area with dining, comfy seating, TV, and outdoor fire pit seating area — *Design by* *Pamela Pennington Studios* *courtesy of* *Eric Zepeda* *Photography*

Outdoor lighting is essential to creating an alluring atmosphere. It generates a sense of warmth and invites guests to linger around the dining table or cozy up to a soothing fire pit. Lighting can create drama, but it also enhances our security while adding a positive element to our curb appeal. As our clients expand their living spaces outside, lighting follows suit with the same concepts we apply to our interiors.

Here, a lavish covered patio includes a luminous halo chandelier, dimmable pendants over the dining table, and recessed lighting around the ceiling perimeter. String lights guide the transition to the alfresco area, with an intimate seating area surrounding a fire table for roasting marshmallows or enjoying cocktails after dark.

Set the Mood

covered patio with dining table illuminated by candles and overhead pendant light — *Interior design by* *Interior Enhancement Group* *courtesy of Cole Horcher Photos*

Here, a softly lit woven pendant mingles with candlelight in this elegant outdoor setting. With the right lighting, you can create your perfect ambiance for an outdoor gathering. So, when the sun goes down and evening sets in, the magic of the moment takes over with pure enchantment.

Luxe Alfresco Dining

outdoor dining area with pergola and built-in fireplace — *Interior design by Tammy Randall Wood,* *Interior Archaeology* *courtesy of* *Joe Schmelzer* *Photographs*

This glorious outdoor setting emanates garden elegance with climbing vines covering a pergola overhead. A linear chandelier illuminates the long rectangular dining table, along with a built-in outdoor fireplace glowing in the background. This lavish setting captures the essence of luxurious outdoor living while maintaining a casual and carefree vibe.

Double Duty Seating

Outdoor seating area with pierced stone privacy screen, sofa, bench, chairs, and coffee table — *Photo courtesy of* *Lance Gerber Studio*

So many of our clients are looking for ways to maximize their outdoor spaces. A few key tips to accomplish this is to use accent chairs that can also function as overflow seating around your dining table. And simple things like selecting a cocktail ottoman, bench, or side table that includes storage give you a place to tuck away blankets you’ll want handy when the sun goes down.

Here, these lightweight pieces are easily movable to suit almost any outdoor occasion. The extra chairs can be pulled in where you need them—poolside or lakeside.

Modular Lounging

Photo courtesy of Lane Venture

Modular seating pieces can be a game changer for outdoor entertaining because they can be reconfigured to suit your needs. Here, this generous sofa sectional from Lane Venture’s Oasis Collection virtually creates a living room outdoors. Sumptuous cushions upholstered in a high-performance fabric welcome wet bathing suits without fuss. Pull the sectional apart, and you can arrange the seating pieces any way you like.

I hope these inspirational ideas and tips can guide you in creating your perfect outdoor setting. If you’re planning a project of your own, my team at Interior Enhancement Group is eager to assist you with all your interior design needs. Here’s wishing you and yours a blissfully beautiful season by the lake!

Best Materials for Wooden Outdoor Furniture

Posted on May 23, 2022July 8, 2022 Camille Smith

When it comes to outdoor kitchens at the lake, wooden furniture is a classic. Besides being a timeless and eco-friendly building material with many diverse uses, wooden outdoor furniture is also a look that will never go out of style. It also matches the lake aesthetic, honoring biophilic design. Functionally, it’s simple to clean with a gentle soap and water wash at the season’s start.

However, if you’re designing your backyard living space from scratch, how do you know what woods to choose? First, it’s important to understand the two basic categories of wooden furniture: hardwood and softwood. Generally, the consensus is that hardwoods are top tier due to their extreme durability. But don’t discount softwoods either — materials like cedar and cypress are still excellent furniture choices due to their natural moisture. Within both subgroups, we have plenty of recommendations. Check out these seven highly regarded materials for wooden furniture!

Acacia

The dark golden-brown color of acacia is an attractive addition to any lakeside retreat. This thick hardwood material is also very affordable because it grows in abundance. In fact, it grows so well that sometimes, the species is considered invasive. For outdoor furniture specifically, acacia’s high oil content makes it resistant to natural causes of decay such as extreme weather, rotting over time, and insect infestation. If correctly sealed, furniture made from acacia can hold up for years to come.

Cedar

Cedar is most recognized for its lovely pinkish-red color — a distinctive hue that evokes a sense of warmth in your home (to prevent fading over time, you can stain cedar wood to protect this color). This lightweight softwood material is also known for its rot resistance, as well as its repellence to termites and insects such as pondered beetles. Its highly resistant properties have led to this wood’s popularity in fences and roofing, as well as outdoor furniture.

On the downside, cedar is more brittle than other types of wood, leading to poorer screw-holding capabilities. However, cedar’s moisture retention and resulting sturdiness make up for its lack of perfect durability.

Cypress

Cypress is a relatively inexpensive, popular wood for outdoor furniture. Although its softwood status means limited hardiness, its natural moisture-wicking properties make up for this deficit. Since cypress releases a natural water repellant, it is an excellent choice for wet climates, especially a lake house environment. Plus, the silvery gray color that cypress achieves over time is a classic look.

Redwood

You may associate redwood with the California forest, but this durable wood also has uses closer to home. Like cypress, redwood is a softwood that is often used in outdoor furniture due to its natural insect and moisture resistance. As a softwood, it is susceptible to dents and chips. However, its adaptability to a variety of climates, as well as its unique deep red coloring, compensates for this shortcoming. Because redwood takes a long time to grow, this wood comes with a higher price tag — however, it’s certainly worth the investment.

Teak

For many reasons, teak is considered the gold standard for outdoor furniture. This valuable wood from Southeast Asia is waterproof, durable, sunlight resistant, and aesthetically pleasing. It also doesn’t expand with changes in humidity, and it’s able to withstand all types of weather conditions. Given these advantages, it’s no wonder that teak wood is some of the most expensive. You’re paying for the best of the best.

White Oak

For those living in wet climates, white oak is a great option because it tends to resist water damage. Because of this quality, oak is highly attractive to those who live in lake environments. It’s also versatile, resistant, and consistently available as oak is the most abundant type of hardwood in the U.S. As a downside to be aware of, white oak requires maintenance over time, including keeping your furniture in the shade to avoid fading color from direct sunlight.

Ipe

This hardwood material imported from South America is known as the densest wood in the world. In fact, the density of ipe wood is so great that it barely floats — an attribute that showcases its water resistance. Additionally, the density allows it to resist cracking and decomposition. Overall, ipe is similar to teak in terms of wood type in durability. However, its price tag is lower than teak, making ipe a hardy, yet more budget-friendly, alternative high-end lumber.

No matter which material you choose, you can’t go wrong with wooden furniture at the lake. We wish you the best in designing your outdoor space! Keep an eye on Lake Homes Lifestyles for more indoor and outdoor design tips.

2022 Outdoor Furniture Design Trends

Posted on March 11, 2022March 6, 2023 Jeanne Delathouder

Written by Michelle Rohrer-Lauer, ASID
Produced by Laura Bianchi and Jeanne Delathouder Hudson

It’s that blissful time of year—when lake lovers start heading outside after a long winter to embrace the great outdoors and the splendor of lake life. So why not make the most of your glorious outdoor spaces so you can enjoy them to the fullest? As a designer and a lake homeowner, I know I will! From early spring to late fall, I want to be able to go outside, breathe in the fresh Wisconsin lake air, and let Mother Nature do what she does best—make me feel relaxed and revived.

To prepare for this spring’s outdoor season, I have gathered some of my favorite new trends and furnishings to share. I looked for smart technology, outstanding design, comfort, and durability. As the founder of Michelle’s Interiors in the Chicago area and a member of the Sustainable Furnishings Council, I am always looking for eco-friendly products that are both sensible and beautiful. These attributes are doubly important for lake homes, where we are surrounded by the beauty of nature and want to preserve it.

Outdoor Work Spaces

More than ever, people are working at home. Working outside has become a logical extension of that trend, whether at your primary residence or your lake home. This automated, louvered cabana from Tuuci allows you to work outside while still having some protection from wind, sun, and rain. Just add furniture and an optional outlet/USB port for your electronics, and you’re open for business. Lights and heating elements are optional but oh-so-wonderful and can dramatically extend your daily and seasonal use. I just installed one of these for a client—it’s incredibly low-maintenance and weatherproof, so it never needs to be taken down.

Dedicated to eco-friendly design solutions, I also love that this cabana is fabricated of durable aluminum and stainless steel, which are both 100% recyclable. Seventy-five percent of all aluminum that has ever been made is still in use because the metal can be recycled indefinitely. Used aluminum beverage cans are the most recycled metal product in the world. Recycling aluminum requires only 5% of the energy used to make primary aluminum for the first time.

Lounge Love

Low-slung sofas and chairs with deep cushions, like this Avondale grouping from Summer Classics, are part of a loungey look that’s on-trend for 2022. I’m crazy about this style because sitting lower to the ground makes me feel more a part of the environment, and the sofa cushions give me plenty of room to sit with my legs in the lotus position. The simple, clean lines prove once again that there is elegance in understatement, and as a bonus, the aluminum frames are also recyclable. So, sink in, relax, and enjoy.

Sleek & Sculpted

Furniture is taking its design cues from sculpture, especially in these intriguing Tides lounge chairs and ottoman from Pavilion. The fluid curves remind me of waves rolling across the lake on a windy day. I love the way the sunlight passes through the narrow slats to create an intriguing contrast of light and texture and how the pieces cast amazing shadows in the water. I could spend hours in one of these chairs, relaxing and enjoying the outdoors.

All About Al Fresco

As we continue our battle against the COVID pandemic, al fresco dining on the lake will become hotter than ever in 2022. I can just imagine my family and friends gathered around this Brickell Communal counter-height dining table from Pavilion on beautiful days, laughing and planning an afternoon of fun on the lake, or sharing tales of our adventures in the evenings.

These cushioned counter stools and bench, also from Pavilion’s Brickell collection, really caught my eye. The crisp square shape and stiletto-style tapered legs of the stools have an awesome blend of streamlined urban elegance and lake home energy. The long bench allows for more seating, especially for a gang of kids with skinny backsides! The table is available in two lengths—75 inches or 112 inches for larger gatherings. Of course, I like that the materials are super durable, too, built to withstand the great outdoors.

Stretch the Outdoor Season

Stretching the outdoor season as long as possible has virtually become an Olympic sport for most lake homeowners, right? My husband and I enjoy sitting on the back porch of our lake house from early spring until the end of October when we watch the autumn leaves turn color. These clever Heatsail Lamps from Sutherland Furniture can help you make the most of outdoor living. Nearly all heat sources are just that—only heat, not light. But with these lamps, you get both—plus, they are stylish. That’s a win-win! I like the way this heat lamp arches over the seating area. It distributes the heat more evenly than those floor heaters that restaurants put in the corners of their patios.

Get Your Green On

What I call “getting your green on” is one of the hottest trends in luxury home furnishings. As a passionate promoter of eco-friendly furnishings, I was thrilled to learn that 97% of consumers in a 2021 survey from the Sustainable Furnishings Council said they were very interested in buying environmentally safe products, assuming that style and cost are about the same. That’s huge—and so encouraging for our planet. I am constantly introducing high-quality, eco-friendly goods to my clients, including outdoor furnishings whenever possible.

Can you tell that this rug from The Delos Company’s Wanderlust Collection is woven from yarns made with fibers produced from recycled water bottles? According to Forbes and Scientific American, it is estimated that one square yard of carpet keeps 50 two-liter water bottles out of landfills. That’s good for the planet, and these rugs are durable, stain-resistant, and retain their color.

Constructed with a textural flatweave, this rug is easy to maintain, soft underfoot, and reversible—a great bonus. From a design standpoint, outdoor rugs have the same attributes as indoor rugs—they help define a space while contributing texture and color.

Have you heard about semi-outdoor rugs made of discarded fishing nets, spent carpets, and other nylon waste? I’m super excited about them—and they are manufactured from The Delos Company’s proprietary ECONYL®, which is 100% regenerated and regenerable nylon. This Water II custom rug is durable, cleanable, and beautiful for covered porches where they won’t get soaked in the rain. They are stain, bleach, and wear-resistant, which is especially important for lake homes.

According to the folks at Delos, for every 10,000 tons of ECONYL®, the company saves 70,000 barrels of crude oil, avoids 57,000 tons of carbon emissions, and saves over 1,000 gigajoules of primary energy demand. Now that’s something to contemplate as you take a dip in the lake.

So, start dreaming of your own beautiful outdoor spaces and make the most of lake living this year. My team and I would love to help you plan your next project!

Ultimate Relaxation: A Spotlight on Five Swinging Bed Manufacturers

Posted on August 3, 2021August 2, 2021 Camille Smith

When it comes to selecting comfortable outdoor furniture for your lake home, few products compete with a swinging bed. They’re simply the best! Whether your family is gathered to watch the sunset or you’re taking a solo nap outside, a swinging bed places you in a rare state of contentment with no possibility of productivity. The relaxing wonders of swinging beds are not a new discovery. In fact, the first swinging beds date back to first-century Rome when a Greek physician invented them as therapy for his patients. He knew the combination of plush cushions and a gentle rocking motion was good for the soul. The only addition we’d recommend is a stunning lake view to complete this relaxing feel.

Across the United States, several outdoor furniture manufacturers are creating swinging beds with innovative designs and high-quality craftsmanship. Many of these family-owned and operated companies began with a simple passion for creating luxury products for others’ vacation homes. Today, we’re highlighting five of these swinging bed creators and some of their latest products.

Seibels

Owned by Kelly Seibels and inspired by his family’s love of the lake, this Alabama-based company creates furniture specifically for casual living. That means that each product from Seibels was designed with a lake or mountain house in mind. Although their collections are named after locations in Birmingham, they’ve shipped swinging beds as far north as Montana and south as Mobile Bay. It’s no wonder why they’re so popular across the country — their designs combine tried-and-true craftsmanship with modern styles to create unique looks. For example, the Fairhope Swinging Bed uses a classic looking, rustic distressed oak frame with plush Sunbrella cushion sets that are durable and easy to clean. For a fun, lakeside nautical look, the Swinging Boat Bed integrates classic navy and white tones in a playful boat shaped design.

Magnolia Porch Swings

The idea for Magnolia Porch Swings was born when its founders, Casey and Eric, were building their dream home and searching for an outdoor swing. Only finding dull designs around them, the remedy was a custom-built porch swing from a family friend. Since then, this couple set out on a mission to deliver that same unique look for others. Now, they create stunning swings made of cedar, cypress, and pine that look natural against lakeside scenery. Their Historic Hilton hanging porch swing combines classic clean lines with a contemporary cross-back look. For a more modern feel, their Modern Swinging Bed has a unique diamond motif and a distressed finish that emphasizes an antique texture.

Palmetto Bed Swings

Photo courtesy of Palmetto Bed Swing Company.

Owned and operated by a family in South Carolina, Palmetto Swing Beds aims for casual elegance in all their designs. Every product is made by local craftsmen, built from pressure-treated wood, and made with a careful attention to detail. This company’s unique flair is that no product is the same. Each customer can customize their own swinging bed by choosing a specific style, paint and stain, and Sunbrella fabric that they love. For the style, customers can pick between the Noah, a more traditional look with a high railing or the Harper, a modern structure with a low railing. With this create-your-own approach to furniture design, you’ll be admiring your lake views from your individualized, perfect porch swing in no time.

Four Oak Bed Swings

After sitting on a comfortable porch swing while visiting Lake Martin in Alabama, Four Oak Swing Beds owner David Belser decided to open his own woodworking shop. First, he created a table for his girlfriend. Now, the girlfriend is his wife and he’s sold his own creations both locally and across the country in states such as New Jersey and California.

Meticulously handcrafted, Four Oak Swing Beds products are comfortable and high quality. Their most popular product is the Seaside Swing Bed. Made of kiln-dried pine, it boasts a full mattress size which is perfect for large gatherings on your lake house patio. The R&R porch swing (reclaimed and recycled) is made from reclaimed antique heart pine as well as wood from trees that have fallen during storms. Finished with natural oil, it has a natural, rustic look that’s perfect for a lake house.

Vintage Porch Swings

Owned by Krista and Brent McHenry, Vintage Porch Swings began when the couple had young children and Krista was pregnant. Due to their growing family, their neighbors generously built outdoor furniture for them. Inspired, they created their own company that is focused on simple, reliable yet versatile designs. Each bed swing design is named after one of their eight kids or their extended family members. Just as each family member is unique, so are the designs. For example, the Noah has a high backboard with a classic slatted design. By contrast, the Mercedes is a platform without a back or sides– perfect for napping in the backyard of your lake home.

We hope these companies inspire your search for an outdoor swinging bed! At your lake house, you deserve furniture that offers ultimate relaxation for you and your family.

5 Patio Umbrellas for the Best Summer Shade

Posted on May 14, 2021June 7, 2021 Camille Smith

Whether you’re enjoying lunch on the patio or relaxing on your boat dock, outdoor umbrellas provide the necessary protection from the sun’s harmful UV rays. In addition to wearing sunscreen, an umbrella adds an extra layer of UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) to keep you safe. This summer, patio umbrellas are an absolute must-have item on the lake. Check out some of the newest patio umbrellas on the market that will give you the summer shade you need!

9’ Market Umbrella by Abba Patio

This patio umbrella was ranked the “best overall” by The Spruce’s list of the best umbrellas for 2021. Perhaps its most outstanding feature is the push-button tilt that allows the umbrella to sit at an angle so that you can position your shade directly in front of the sun. The water-resistant and UV-resistant fabric will keep you free from burns while you enjoy the afternoon. Durable and easy to use, this patio umbrella is made to last for many years at your lake house.

Sunbrella Market Umbrella by EliteShade

Specifically built to withstand winds, the Market Umbrella from EliteShade is designed with three tiers of ventilation. These vents allow both hot or cold air to filter through without knocking over your umbrella. Plus, the crank open pole makes this product much stronger than others on the market, offering even more protection from toppling over. For those of us in particularly windy lake areas, this umbrella is a dream! It also comes in a variety of colors, from Macaw Green to Royal Blue, that will stand out in your backyard.

9’ Patio Umbrella by SunnyGlade

If your outdoor space is on the smaller side, this 9’ patio umbrella from SunnyGlade might be perfect for your lake house. Made from 100% waterproof polyester with a sturdy aluminum pole, this product is made to last. Its size is perfect for a table with four to six chairs, making it ideal for small gatherings with family or friends. Although this product comes in various colors, the navy and white stripes evoke a particularly stunning nautical design vibe.

Solar LED Umbrella from Best Choice Products

We all love lounging under an umbrella on hot summer days. But what about when those days start turning into nights? There’s a crucial window of time somewhere between 6 pm and 8 pm where you need both shade and light. Enter the solar LED umbrella. In addition to highly durable fabric, this patio umbrella also boasts 24 built-in solar-powered lights that last for 6-7 hours at a time. This umbrella will bring a newfound ambiance to summer nights.

North Bend Rectangular Market Umbrella

Who said that all umbrellas needed to be round? This rectangular market umbrella from North Bend is essentially two umbrellas in one, providing maximum canopy shade. The rectangular shape makes it perfect for a double set of lounge chairs or a balcony. With water-resistant, anti-UV fabric, this product protects you from both rain and sun. What more could you need for life on the lake?

Stay cool this summer!

Sustainability in Style: A Look at Recycled Furniture Trends

Posted on January 4, 2021January 4, 2021 Camille Smith

If you’re hunting for outdoor furniture for your lake house, you’ve likely noticed phrases like “eco friendly” and “sustainable” appearing in magazines and on retail websites. This is because going green is on the rise. One of the top furniture trends in 2021 is the use of natural and sustainable materials. Many designers have adopted eco-friendly policies. For example, companies are converting plastic water bottles and milk jugs into tables and chairs. This efficient use of plastic lowers carbon emissions and benefits the environment. To learn more about this trend, we spoke with POLYWOOD, a pioneer manufacturer in the field of sustainable furniture. They are one of many companies specializing in innovative, eco-friendly designs.

The Eco-Friendly Trend

Too often, sustainability and style are mutually exclusive, so it’s great when what’s “in” aligns with what’s beneficial to the environment. Lindsay Schelis, Vice President of Business Development at POLYWOOD, comments, “The largest trend we’re seeing by far is sustainability in furnishings. Consumers are becoming more and more conscientious of their purchases.” POLYWOOD is one manufacturer responding to this trend. This Indiana-based company was the first to create outdoor furniture from recycled plastic materials in the 1990s, and they now process over 400,000 milk jugs each day into their products. Schelis notes that another upcoming trend she’s noticed is furniture that mimics colors and textures found in nature. Perhaps customers’ desire for natural looks reflects their environmental values.

Sustainable Solutions

Companies are making commitments to sustainability in a variety of ways in response to this eco-friendly furniture trend. Schelis adds that some specific strategies are the utilization of PFC free fabrics and sustainably sourced wood. At POLYWOOD specifically, they focus on recycled plastic. Schelis specifies, “We are committed to incorporate 1 million pounds of ocean-bound plastic into the production of our furniture by 2022.” This impressive goal benefits both the environment and consumers. Other companies are following suit in creative ways. EcoBirdy, for example, recycles plastic children’s toys to create eco-friendly furniture with a playful, textured look. Their designs have been featured in museums such as the Cooper-Hewitt in New York and the Museum of Applied Arts in Vienna.

Stunning Pieces

One way that manufacturers add appeal to sustainable furniture is by recreating classic pieces in environmentally friendly ways. The Adirondack chair, for instance, is a celebrated staple in outdoor furniture. Many of us have one sitting on our front porch. Because Adirondacks are such an enduring style, POLYWOOD has been manufacturing them from recycled plastic for 30 years. Their latest Adirondack design, the Ocean Chair, is part of their initiative to expand their recycling process to include globally-sourced ocean-bound plastic in their products. By purchasing an Ocean Chair, Schelis explains, “we are able to incorporate an additional 1,000 single-use plastic containers into outdoor furniture!” POLYWOOD is not alone in using recyclable materials to create classic designs. A traditional wooden table, for instance, will never go out of style. Instead of cutting down trees unnecessarily, Fallen Industry uses recycled wood to create these sophisticated yet unembellished looks.

As lake lovers who enjoy spending time outdoors, we appreciate the furniture industry’s consideration for the natural world. With new designs that are both beautiful and sustainable, we don’t expect this trend to slow down soon.

Low Outdoor Seating: Ideas for Fire Pits

Posted on October 5, 2020October 5, 2020 Camille Smith

Photo courtesy of Luxury Home Magazine Charlotte via Instagram.

Have you heard the phrase “form follows function?” This famous architectural philosophy, coined by skyscraper inventor Louis Henry Sullivan, means that a building or object’s shape reflects its intended purpose.

This principle certainly applies to outdoor furniture; an outdoor chair’s height depends on its designated function. For instance, high counter stools are for entertaining because hosts can chat with their seated guests at eye level. By contrast, lounge chairs’ low height and reclining backs facilitate ultimate relaxation.

However, seating for fire pits is unique. Lower than a dining chair but higher than a lounge, this low outdoor seating should cater to casual conversation among guests.

For lake homeowners with fire pits, there’s a myriad of types of chairs to pick! From benches to Adirondacks, these differing forms all reflect the same function — enjoying a fireside chat with your friends and family.

Adirondack Chairs

Named for the mountainous region in New York, Adirondack chairs are simply a classic. The classic wooden frames and reclining backs are designed for relaxation. Further, their low height makes them perfect for fire pit seating.

One brand specializing in Adirondack chairs is Polywood, a leading manufacturer in sustainable furniture. Their goal is to incorporate 1 million pounds of ocean-bound plastic into furniture by 2021. If you’re seeking a timeless, simple look, an Adirondack chair is unbeatable.

Sectional Sofas

For square and rectangular fire pits, sectional sofas are an ideal low outdoor seating choice. As an angular piece of furniture, their form naturally matches a fire pit’s edges. This form matching creates a seamless, congruous design.

The good news is that it’s possible to find sectional sofas at any price point. For the best of the best, look to Brown Jordan, a renowned luxury outdoor furniture provider. Their selection of outdoor sectional sofas is built to last.

Swings

Photo courtesy of Little White House Blog/Remodelaholic via Country Living Magazine.

Who says that swings are reserved for front porches? Low-hanging outdoor swings add a laid-back flare to any fire pit. If you’re good with woodworking, you can create a DIY hexagonal swing set for your backyard.

If woodworking is not your thing, there’s plenty of other swing options. These wicker egg chairs from Belham are great for social distancing, as they only accommodate one guest per swing. On a cool fall evening, it’ll be easy to drift to sleep with the rocking motion of these swings.

Euro Chairs

For outdoor fire pits, picking the right chair height is ideal. Dining chairs are too high, but lounge chairs are too low. Enter the euro chair — a “chat height” designed for having casual conversations and roasting smores around the fire.

While many brands carry euro chairs as a low outdoor seating option, Summer Classics has a particularly strong collection. This luxury brand of outdoor furniture specializes in durable, high-quality pieces built to last. Add a few plush cushions for maximum comfort.

Benches

If you don’t mind backless furniture, curved benches are a great option for low outdoor seating around a fire pit. Multiple benches create a design where each guest can have their own space, and the flat planed seat doubles as a drink holder.

Bench style seating has become a popular trend in recent years. They’re effortlessly stylish, they blend well with nature, and they’re easy to build. If you’d rather not build your own, Wayfair has plenty of options in multiple price ranges.

Regardless of the specific kind of low outdoor seating furniture, your guests will love gathering around the outdoor fire pit at your lake home. For more backyard landscaping ideas, check out our blog at Lakehomes.com!

Top 3 Fabric Trends of 2020– And How They Reflect Lake Living

Posted on May 26, 2020May 21, 2020 Camille Smith

While spending more time inside during the quarantine, perhaps you’ve considered redecorating a room in your lake house. After all, if you’re going to be home all day, you might as well enjoy your surroundings. A vital element of any room’s decor is fabric choice. From upholstery to pillowcases, a well-selected fabric has the power to tie a room’s aesthetic together. As we reach the halfway point of 2020, we’re taking a look at the top fabric trends of the new decade. To get more insight, we spoke with some of the best in the business, Sunbrella, and Perennials. Fortunately for us, this year’s fabric trends merge seamlessly with the appreciation for nature that lake lovers share.

Textured Looks

Consistent with the styles described in our previous post on 2020 outdoor furniture trends, textured looks are fashionable for fabrics this year. Materials with intriguing, tactile patterns evoke a sense of comfort as well as style. Jordan Murphy, public relations manager at Perennials, explains, “Textured fabrics such as outdoor cushions bring a few indoor comforts out. No longer are outdoor fabrics relegated to only canvas and linens.” Perennials’ newest collection, In the Mix, features elements of this texture play. Inspired by the Japanese wabi-sabi style of finding beauty in imperfections, it highlights detailed patterns and a sense of movement.

Nature-Inspired

This year, designers are meeting customers’ interest in natural beauty by turning to the outdoors for inspiration. Murphy mentions that Perennials’ top colors are always neutrals and blues — shades that are common in nature. Sunbrella’s designs feature natural colors as well. Lauren Blaskie, manager of brand research at Sunbrella, comments, “A flower garden or an evening sky offer great color combinations. Bring these contrasting hues onto a porch with a classic blue bench or boldly patterned chair.”

Further, just as nature is dynamic and bold, so is Sunbrella’s recent collection, Dimension. By layering vivid colors with detailed textures, the collection showcases a sense of movement. Combining colors like “sunset orange” and “dark night” reflect the same brilliant mix of hues found in nature.

Cultural Influences

When looking at trends, it’s not only important to consider “what’s in” but to also examine the mindset behind the specific styles. This is why Blaskie uses cultural observations to create new patterns for Sunbrella. Some significant cultural shifts that have impacted fabric trends in 2020 are mindfulness and sustainability. These mindsets impact both the way fabrics are created as well as their designs. Lauren Blaskie mentions that Sunbrella’s designs also reflect customers’ values of originality and comfort. She explains, “unique, hand-spun looks and novelty yarns provide a personal, lived-in feel to our favorite outdoor spaces — from a peaceful and cozy porch swing to a bright and welcoming patio furniture set.” Beyond simple color and texture trends, buyers want their decor to evoke a peaceful sense of home.

For Lake Homeowners

As lake lovers who enjoy relaxing outdoors, we appreciate this year’s trends that celebrate the natural world. Textured looks reflect the variety of textures found in surrounding flora and fauna, and natural colors blend seamlessly with the lakeside atmosphere. Finally, the behind-the-scenes emphasis on mindfulness, sustainability, and comfort is already present in the lake living mentality. We hope you embrace these fabric trends and create indoor and outdoor designs that suit you this year!

How to Remove Mold From Your Outdoor Furniture

Posted on May 6, 2020May 11, 2020 Camille Smith

When you own outdoor furniture at your lake home, you can enjoy nature from the comfort of a plush cushion and a curved backrest. With the right chaise lounge, admiring your lakefront view from your boat dock and enjoying a spring breeze never gets old. However, as any lake homeowner knows, being immersed in nature requires taking a few necessary precautions, such as protecting yourself from nuisances like bugs, sunburns, and poison ivy. For outdoor furniture specifically, this means being vigilant about the presence of mold and mildew.

While mildew is sometimes found on the furniture itself, mold often appears on cushions and the underside of umbrellas — not a treat for your guests. Because these sneaky fungi thrive in moist areas, furniture that is regularly exposed to rain will attract them. But at Lake Homes Realty, we refuse to let mold and mildew ruin anyone’s outdoor dining and lounging experiences — we’re here with tips on keeping your furniture clean and mold-free.

Make the Right Solution

When deciding what kind of cleaning solution to use, the answer will depend on the type of furniture. For most furniture, a mixture of Lysol (or another soap solution) and hot water should do the trick. According to the luxury outdoor furniture manufacturing company, Summer Classics, metal, and aluminum furniture are easiest to clean. For wood furniture, the ideal formula that Summer Classics recommends is 1 cup ammonia, ½ cup white vinegar, and ¼ cup of baking soda into 1 gallon of water. These homemade solutions can help remove mildew that appears on furniture. There is a myriad of DIY solutions you can create — be sure never to mix bleach and ammonia.

For mold, which most often appears on cushions, a mild soap and water solution will clean most dyed fabrics. Candy Chase from Treasure Garden, an award-winning umbrella and shade product designer, and manufacturer, advises mixing ½ cup of bleach and ¼ cup of natural soap per gallon of water when cleaning umbrella fabric. After applying the solution, she notes that it’s essential to “allow the fabric to air dry and store in a dry, well-ventilated area.” She urges, “do not subject the fabric to extreme heat or it will shrink.”

Use a Pressure Washer

Photo courtesy of Jacuzzi Outdoor Living.

Especially for wicker furniture with lots of small crevices that are difficult to clean thoroughly, a pressure washer is an ideal tool. Jemma Lane from Arbor Living, a real estate company in the U.K., says that a pressure washer “should get most if not all of the mold and mildew off of the furniture.” After using the pressure washer, she recommends, “wipe the rest of it away with soapy water and a cloth and then use the pressure washer again to finish off.” Outdoor maintenance expert, Gena Lorainne recommends using a pressure washer as well. She advises, “make sure to spray it from all angles, so you can effectively remove all the mold, as it can spread again.”

Less Moisture, More Sunlight

Because mold and mildew tend to thrive in moist areas, create an environment for your outdoor furniture that prevents moisture from getting too settled. When you aren’t enjoying your furniture, be sure to move it out of the shade and lower your umbrella. Additionally, a positive flow of air is encouraged. If your furniture is sitting in an enclosed space, be sure to invest in a dehumidifier.

Invest in Good Products

One way to prevent mold and mildew from developing is by purchasing cushions that are specifically designed to withstand these pesky fungi. For example, Sunbrella is renowned for its high-quality marine grade cushions that are engineered to prevent the development of mold and mildew. They’re also easy to clean — a concept that gives way to “worry-free livability.” If you’re looking for an extra layer of protection, Candy Chase recommends protective covers and fabric protection products to stem the growth of mold or mildew. However, it’s important to keep in mind that waterproof covers don’t protect from mold and mildew because condensation can still develop beneath the cover. Instead, look for water-resistant, breathable fabrics.

No matter your specific strategy for conquering mold, make sure to clean your outdoor furniture regularly. When you invest a little time upkeep, your furniture will be in a consistently clean state that’s always ready for guests to arrive!

Text by Kelly Guinaugh, ASIDProduced by Jeanne Delathouder